Released in 2016, the GLC was Mercedes-Benz's first attempt at making a mid-size compact SUV. Being a Mercedes Benz, the GLC caters to the premium segment of the market. The compact SUV sector has seen unprecedented growth and demand in the latter end of the last decade. Many manufacturers have now devised and released their own offerings. Below, we will have a look at some of these and see how they compare to the GLC.
Buyers in the market for this type of vehicle are generally looking to combine practicality with good looks and drivability. The compact end of the SUV market tends to appeal to younger families looking for a daily driver, capable of transporting the grocery shop and lugging the children and all of their associated paraphernalia. The company values relative affordability, school run, and office car park desirability as well as providing that coveted high rise seating position.
The GLC received a mid-life facelift for the 2020 model year, subtle tweaks were made to the front and rear LED lights. The update also brought the infotainment offering bang up to date with the inclusion of the MBUX (Mercedes Benz User Experience) system with integrated "Hey Mercedes" voice control and a digital instrument cluster. There is also the choice of either a 7 or a 10.25-inch touchscreen that is fully smartphone integratable enabling navigation, music, and call control amongst many other features. Helping to improve usability and minimize distraction while driving, there is also a touchpad within the center console that recognizes smartphone-style swiping and pinching gestures. The GLC has a number of different engine options, broadening its appeal. But how does it fare against competitors?
8 Volvo XC60
Given vehicles in this segment are most frequently purchased by the younger family market, safety is often at the top of the priority list. Swedish manufacturer Volvo has something of a reputation when it comes to keeping those inside safe and secure, in fact, they invented the three-point seatbelt in 1959. They even generously allowed other manufacturers to utilize the design in order to save as many lives as possible. European-based Euro NCAP safety test the majority of new cars. The XC60 performed well achieving a 98% protection rating for adult occupants and 87% for child occupants, the GLC performed similarly with 95% for adults and actually a better 89% for children. Where the Volvo really excels is in its safety assist rating where it achieves 95% compared to the Mercedes 71%. This is mainly due to the standard-fit autonomous emergency braking system as well as other systems such as lane keep assist.
The cabin sports a minimalist design and the majority of driver functions are controlled via a classy-looking iPad-style touchscreen. Two four-cylinder engines are available offering 247 hp and 295 hp respectively. There is also a hybrid offering that puts out a more exciting 400 hp, this blasts the car to 62 mph in just 4.9s.
7 Porsche Macan
For those drivers looking for a sports car-like driving experience from their compact SUV, the Porsche Macan could well meet their needs. Just because a practical SUV body is required for family life, it doesn't mean parents can't put their foot down and enjoy an engaging drive. The Macan Turbo ticks this box, a 2.9l twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 434 bhp, which takes the car from 0-62 in 4.5s. Standard adaptive dampers really allow this car to transform from a comfortable cruiser to a sports car.
In comparison, the GLC's fastest variant, the GLC 63 S AMG, actually trumps this, and a 510 hp biturbo 4.0-liter V8 catapults it to 62 mph in only 3.8s. Despite the speed advantage, the handling of the Macan is subjectively more responsive and agile according to a review of the cars by Evo.
6 Jaguar F-Pace
Released in 2016, the Jaguar F-Pace is a great alternative to the GLC, arguably the design is more striking, particularly in higher trim levels. The good looks are complemented by a similarly attractive interior. The Pivi Pro infotainment system includes as standard an 11.4 inch touchscreen, DAB radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and a connected navigation system. Cargo capacity is larger then the GLC's 540 litres, boasting a generous 650 litres, with the rear seats folded this is upped to 1842 litres. One unique feature is the possibility to specify an "activity key", this allows adventurous owners to engage in their chosen pursuits with a wearable waterproof key, leaving the conventional fob safely in the dry.
The range-topping F-Pace SVR is a real treat, powered by a 5.0 liter supercharged 550 hp V8. As a consequence, the 0-60 sprint can be completed in a rapid 3.8s. Hopefully, Jaguar is allowed to continue manufacturing this car for a few more years at least.
5 Range Rover Velar
The GLC has a very luxurious interior, high quality materials are widely used. Adding to the classy looks are matt, natural wood inserts, the visible grain really lifts the cabin look and feel. Similarly, the metal-looking circular air vents continue the feel of quality. The Range Rover Velar however has the edge on the GLC for looks and luxury for buyers who prioritize this. Land Rover has opted for a minimalistic design, there are few physical buttons, the majority of functions are controlled through the dual 10-inch touchscreen "Pivi Pro" system. Leather is found widely throughout the cabin alongside, ash, aluminum, and carbon fiber, depending on the trim selected.
In the rear, flexibility is provided through the inclusion of 40:20:40 folding seats and a 558-liter boot. Base models get a turbocharged 247 hp 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, there are 6 cyl options and also a 5.0-liter V8 in the SV Autobiography putting out 550 hp.
4 Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Buyers seeking a little bit more passion and character from their compact SUV driving experience may be attracted to the Stelvio. Compared to the GLC, which is Germanic and serious, the Stelvio has an Italian design flair and character. The car handles very well and displays sports car-like characteristics. This is partly due to the Stelvio being based on the Giulia sedan.
The cars are also fairly exclusive given that Alfa Romeo has only recently returned to the North American market. Buyers really get the feeling they are driving something quite special and unique. The grille design is eye-catching and the overall look is markedly different from the other SUVs in this list. Those looking for performance should opt for the Stelvio Quadrifoglio, its 2.9-liter turbo V6 produces 505 hp and the car completes 0-60 in 3.4s.
3 Land Rover Discovery Sport
The Discovery Sport is one of the smaller offerings from Land Rover, despite the name, this is not a performance focussed model. It is more a compact alternative to its larger brother the Discovery. What this car excels at is practicality. The luggage compartment is a very generous 840 liters, it also boasts a flat load bay allowing for easier packing. By comparison, the GLC only offers 540 liters. Another major benefit over the GLC for certain buyers is the 7 seat or 5+2 configuration. The third row enables 2 extra children or adults, on short journeys to travel together with 5 others in the same vehicle. There is a reduction in load space to just 115 liters when all seats are occupied.
There is only one engine option available, a 246 hp turbocharged 4 cylinder. This doesn't give prospective buyers much choice, unlike those opting for a GLC.
2 Audi Q5
The first of two obvious premium German alternatives to the GLC. The Audi Q5 excels with a very high-quality interior with lots of satisfying soft-touch materials. The virtual cockpit provides drivers with their essential information whilst looking sleek and also being fully adjustable. The satellite navigation for example can fill this screen or can be condensed between the speed and rev dials depending on driver preference. Cargo space is a reasonable 550 liters and seats can be folded in a 40/20/40 configuration, maximizing practicality.
The Q5 is available with a 2.0l 4 cylinder 261 hp engine which actually powers the car from 0-60 mph in a very respectable 5.7s. There is also a hybrid option that reduces 0-60 mph to just 5.0s and the turbo V6 SQ5 reduces this further to 4.7s.
1 BMW X3
The other premium German alternative, the X3, is an imposing-looking challenger to the GLC. The flared kidney grilles give the car an aggressive-looking front end. The infotainment system has been updated and results in a very driver focussed experience, the 12.3-inch central information display is the centerpiece. Sports seats come as standard making for a great-looking, sporty interior.
The engine lineup comprises of entry-level 248 hp, 2.0-liter 4 cylinder 30i options and tops out with a 503 hp 3.0-liter twin-turbo V6 that does 0-60 in 3.7s when found in the X3 M Competition Pack. Cargo capacity is marginally larger than the GLC at 550 liters compared to its 540 liters.