2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2020 BMW X3

Luxury compact SUVs are extremely popular with new vehicle buyers in Canada, and competition is fierce in this category. Two models that stand out in the segment are the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC and the 2020 BMW X3. These are two high-quality SUVs that offer top-level performance, lots of luxury and a wide selection of versions. So, it's hard to tell them apart and choose the right model for us.

In terms of design, the GLC's approach is one of subtle elegance and impressive refinement on the road. The BMW X3's design is more disruptive, but if it's a sportier-looking SUV you're looking for, look no further than the Mercedes-AMG GLC. Design is a subjective element, it's true, but it's interesting to note the visual differences between the GLC 300 and 350e and the AMG 43 and 63 versions, and it's harder to see the differences between the versions in the X3 lineup.

Both base versions of these SUVs are powered by efficient and powerful 2.0-litre, turbocharged 4-cylinder engines. That said, the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 benefits from 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque compared to the BMW X3's 248 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, respectively. The difference in torque is noticeable on the road, and the GLC 300 boasts slightly more direct acceleration and throttle response. Although both vehicles are equipped with all-wheel drive, the GLC's standard transmission is a 9-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic compared to the X3's 8-speed unit.

Performance enthusiasts in need of space will love what AMG has in store for them. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 is powered by 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque from a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6. BMW has a similar approach with its 382 horsepower and 365 lb-ft of torque with its X3 M40i. However, nothing equals the experience of driving an AMG model thanks to its sports exhaust system and adaptive air suspension. You can modify and adjust the GLC 43 or GLC 63 S's handling and turn it from a comfortable and flexible SUV into a track beast with a few turns of the DYNAMIC SELECT system.

As previously mentioned, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 63 S rivals the BMW X3M with 503 horsepower. Both SUVs are incredibly capable, but the GLC 63 S has a more aggressive sound and a much faster, more linear ride.

In terms of versatility, these two SUVs offer spacious trunks and comfortable cabins. The Mercedes-Benz allows you to select a huge 10.25-inch central screen with a very diversified infotainment system called MBUX. This system adapts to your preferences with its artificial intelligence and allows you to interact with natural voice commands using the "Hey, Mercedes" command. If you find it's too warm, for example, you can simply use the "Hey, Mercedes, it's warm in the cabin" command, and the temperature will adjust automatically.

While the BMW X3 is an interesting proposition, no other brand offers the same balance of performance, refinement and comfort as Mercedes-Benz. The 2020 GLC is the product of more than 125 years of luxury and performance know-how, and you can feel it on the road.

The new Mercedes-Benz GLC also offers more value than the BMW X3. A little more expensive, the latter has several option packages that add up to a higher price. The GLC also has option packages, but in the end, the Mercedes-Benz gives you more for less.

A road test is all you'll need to be completely convinced.