2019 BMW X5 vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2019 BMW X5, despite its hefty 5,000-pound frame, aimed to deliver a sedan-like driving experience. BMW's focus on on-road performance over off-road capabilities was evident, making it a smooth ride on pavement. The X5 offered a five-passenger layout, expandable to seven, though the third row was notably cramped. Power came from two turbocharged engines: a 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder for the xDrive40i and a 4.4-liter V8 for the xDrive50i, both paired with a seamless ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. The base xDrive40i started at $60,700, featuring AWD, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive safety suite. Various packages allowed for extensive customization, with the xDrive50i adding more luxury and power for $75,750.

In contrast, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC received a refreshed front fascia with a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights, aligning it with the aggressive styling of the A-Class and CLS-Class. The GLC 300, the mass-market model, lacked visual drama compared to competitors like the Volvo XC60 and Acura RDX. However, AMG versions added some flair with wide tires and a lower stance. The GLC's interior was a standout, featuring high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish. The major update for 2020 was a standard 10.3-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous smaller displays, and a new touchpad on the console. The GLC's interior space was adequate for four adults, though the back seat's reclining mechanism was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited to 19 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding to 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2019 BMW X5's performance was a key selling point. The xDrive40i's turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine delivered 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just over 5 seconds. The xDrive50i's 4.4-liter V8 offered 456 hp and 479 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in around 4 seconds. The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission provided smooth and efficient shifts, contributing to the X5's impressive EPA ratings of 20 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined. The X5's ride quality was enhanced by its Cluster Architecture platform, combining steel, aluminum, and carbon fiber for strength and performance. The optional air suspension allowed for adjustable ride height and improved bump absorption, making the X5 a comfortable yet sporty ride.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The 9-speed automatic transmission, available in RWD or 4Matic AWD, was reprogrammed for better performance. The AMG GLC 43's twin-turbo 3.0-liter V6 delivered 385 hp and 384 lb-ft, while the AMG GLC 63's 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 offered up to 503 hp and 516 lb-ft. Despite these powerful options, the GLC 300's steering and handling were disappointing, with body roll and vague steering detracting from the driving experience. The GLC 300's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg city, 28 highway, and 24 combined, while the AMG models had lower ratings due to their higher performance.

Inside the 2019 BMW X5, the design shifted to aggressive angles and dual 12.3-inch screens for the updated iDrive infotainment system. While the design was modern, some materials felt cheap unless upgraded. The seats were a mixed bag, with insufficient thigh support and a tendency to get hot without ventilation. However, space was ample, with 33.9 cubic feet of cargo space expandable to 72.3 cubic feet. The split rear tailgate and air suspension made loading easier, and the X5 could tow up to 7,200 pounds when properly equipped.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior combined digital and physical controls, with a steep learning curve for new users. The column shifter and door-mounted seat controls were unconventional but practical. The MBUX infotainment system was user-friendly, with customizable displays and shortcut buttons. The GLC's interior space was adequate for four adults, though the back seat's reclining mechanism was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited to 19 cubic feet behind the seats, expanding to 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2019 BMW X5's technology was a letdown. Gesture control was unreliable, and the customizable screens were less intuitive than competitors. Voice controls were inconsistent, particularly for users with accents. The iDrive interface was well-designed but required time to master. The Driving Assistance Plus package offered limited hands-off driving but struggled with lane-keeping and overcorrection. The Extended Traffic Jam Assistant worked well in stop-and-go traffic. Other options included Parking Assistant Plus, a night-vision system, and a rear-seat entertainment system. The Harman Kardon stereo provided excellent sound, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins system for audiophiles.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC's MBUX system featured advanced technology, including augmented reality navigation and a cloud-based voice assistant. The system could track user behavior and suggest destinations or contacts. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with optional wireless charging. The Off-Road Engineering Package added hill-descent control and additional driving modes. While some features were ahead of their time, they were not always well-integrated.

The 2019 BMW X5 featured a new brake-by-wire system, providing a nearly natural feel with occasional grabby feedback. The X5 received a 4-star rating from the NHTSA, with 5-star ratings in side crash tests. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, with top scores in all tests.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC was named a 2019 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS, with top ratings in all crash tests and forward emergency braking. The NHTSA awarded the GLC a 5-star rating in all crash tests. New for 2020 was Exit Warning Assist, which warned of approaching cyclists or cars for up to 3 minutes after shutting down the vehicle. Other features included Pre-Safe Sound and Predictive Brake Priming.