2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2020 Volvo XC90

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a familiar yet slightly updated design, with a new front fascia featuring a trapezoidal grille and angled LED headlights. While the GLC wasn't unattractive, it lacked visual excitement from most angles, especially in its mass-market GLC 300 form. The AMG versions, however, added some flair with wide tires and a vertical-bar grille. The interior was a standout, with high-quality materials and impeccable fit and finish, highlighted by a new 10.3-inch touchscreen and a refined steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2020 Volvo XC90 showcased a peak in Volvo's design evolution, proving that a large SUV could be as elegant as a sedan. The R-Design trim added a sporty touch with blacked-out grille elements and 22-inch rims. The "Thor's hammer" LED headlights and curving taillights were distinctive Volvo features. Inside, the XC90 offered a luxurious experience with options like wool fabric seats and a well-crafted interior, emphasizing simplicity and quality.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a new turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. While the engine improved over previous models, it still lagged behind competitors in terms of sound and response. The AMG GLC 43, with its 385 hp twin-turbo V6, offered a thrilling performance, while the AMG GLC 63 models boasted even more power with their V8 engines. However, the GLC 300's handling and steering were less impressive, with noticeable body roll and vague steering.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all based on a 2.0-liter inline-4 engine. The T5 model produced 250 hp, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp. The T8 plug-in hybrid delivered 400 hp but was hampered by its weight. The XC90's performance was adequate but not sporty, with the T6 providing decent acceleration. Fuel economy was a concern, with the T6 averaging 20 mpg over 800 miles. The T8 offered limited electric range and didn't significantly improve fuel efficiency.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC combined digital and physical controls, with the MBUX system offering a user-friendly interface after some practice. The interior was comfortable for four adults, though rear seat adjustments were cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with 19 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 57 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than previous versions. The cabin layout was excellent, with seven seats standard and an optional integrated booster cushion for children. The third row was tight, suitable only for small children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 85.7 cubic feet available with the rear seats folded.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC's MBUX system included advanced features like augmented reality navigation and a cloud-based voice assistant. While some features were limited in functionality, the system was impressive for its time. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with optional wireless charging, added to the tech appeal.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 came with Volvo Pilot Assist, a semi-automated driving system that excelled in highway conditions. The Bowers & Wilkins stereo was a highlight, offering exceptional sound quality. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was easy to use, though onboard apps were slow to load. The digital instrument panel offered limited customization compared to competitors.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with features like Exit Warning Assist and Pre-Safe Sound enhancing safety. The GLC's engineering included advanced systems like Predictive Brake Priming.

The 2020 Volvo XC90 also boasted excellent safety ratings, though its headlight test lowered its IIHS rating to a Top Safety Pick. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. Volvo's commitment to safety was evident in its use of high-strength materials and innovative systems like whiplash protection.