2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2021 BMW X3

The 2021 BMW X3, part of the third generation introduced in 2018, received several updates in 2020, including a plug-in hybrid model and M performance variants. The 2018 redesign refined the X3 formula, giving it the exterior and interior presence of larger, more expensive BMW models. The X3's exterior resembled a downsized BMW X5, while its interior featured the same cold, mechanical styling found across the BMW lineup. Although not as aesthetically pleasing as the Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class, the X3's dash was more functional.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC, on the other hand, embraced a timeless aesthetic with soft curves and rounded edges, embodying modern aggression with its menacing LED headlights. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, resembling a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an automotive work of art, with flowing lines and a floating center touchscreen. Mercedes-Benz's design language elevated automotive packaging to an art form, setting the bar for other compact luxury SUV cabins.

The 2021 BMW X3 offered a range of powertrains. The sDrive30i and xDrive30i came with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 248 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The sDrive30i featured rear-wheel drive, while the xDrive30i had all-wheel drive. The xDrive30e plug-in hybrid delivered 288 horsepower and a 17-mile electric-only range, with recharging times of 3.5 hours using a 240-volt Level 2 charger or almost 12 hours with a 120-volt outlet. The M40i trim boasted a 382-horsepower twin-turbo inline-six engine, offering robust acceleration and responsive cornering. For those seeking even more power, the X3 M performance model provided 473 horsepower.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, routed through a nine-speed automatic transmission to either rear-wheel drive or available 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC featured steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Dynamic Select with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ drive modes. The AMG GLC43 offered a twin-turbocharged V6 with 385 horsepower, while the AMG GLC63 and GLC63 S featured a twin-turbo V8, producing 469 and 503 horsepower, respectively. These AMG models delivered sports car-like acceleration and cornering.

The 2021 BMW X3 provided up to 62.7 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 28.7 cubic feet with the seats in use, making it one of the best in the small luxury SUV segment. A power liftgate was standard, with an optional hands-free power liftgate. The X3 offered ample headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, with a commanding driving position. The interior featured real buttons and dials, complementing the main touchscreen and reducing the learning curve for new drivers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 offered 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 19.4 cubic feet with the seats in use. The GLC Coupe's fastback profile reduced these figures to 49.4 and 17.6 cubic feet, respectively. The GLC's interior made good use of its space, with a decently sized center console, deep door pockets, and retractable cupholders. Rear-seat space was adequate, with plenty of headroom in the SUV, though the Coupe's low roofline cut into headroom.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with a 10.2-inch touchscreen running the iDrive infotainment system, which was user-friendly compared to other luxury systems. The combination of touch operation and the iDrive dial in the center console catered to different user preferences. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, with Android Auto as an option. Other available options were wireless device charging, a fully digital instrument panel, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon premium stereo system, and gesture control.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch center touchscreen, center console touch controller, and advanced voice-control system. The system was intuitive, offering both touch controller and touchscreen options. The steering wheel had touch-sensitive pads for customizing the digital instrument panel and navigating the main infotainment screen. Standard features included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus.

The 2021 BMW X3 came standard with advanced driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and front-and-rear parking sensors. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, headlights that bend with the road, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC also came with standard safety tech, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, front-and-rear parking sensors, hands-free parking assist, and a driver drowsiness monitor. The parking and proximity sensors were overly sensitive, but could be deactivated. Optional safety features included a 360-degree parking camera, dynamic cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning.