2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC had a timeless aesthetic, characterized by soft curves and rounded edges, which contrasted with the aggressive styling trends of many contemporary SUVs. Its long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. The cabin was an automotive work of art, with flowing lines and a minimalist approach that elevated the interior to an art form. The GLC was available in both conventional SUV and crossover “coupe” body styles, with the latter offering a sharp look at the cost of usable space.

Standard equipment on the entry-level GLC 300 included 18-inch alloy wheels, LED headlights, and a power liftgate. Inside, it featured synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated front seats. The MBUX infotainment system, with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, was also standard. Optional packages added features like navigation, ambient lighting, and a Burmester premium sound system. The AMG GLC43 and AMG GLC63 variants offered more potent powertrains and performance upgrades.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, evaluated in Black Onyx, eradicated almost all chrome from its exterior, transforming it into a rolling black hole. Despite its new Black Line treatment, the GX’s design remained dated, resembling the first-generation 2002 GX 470. However, the cabin’s quality was undeniable, with smooth, silky refinement and a quiet interior. The GX 460 was available in Standard, Premium, and Luxury trims, with prices ranging from $56,700 to $66,210. The Black Line Special Edition, based on the GX 460 Premium, started at $60,535.

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. Power was routed through a nine-speed automatic transmission to the rear wheels 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 four-cylinder turbo provided ample power, and the steering was precise, making the GLC a balanced and responsive vehicle. The AMG GLC43 and AMG GLC63 variants offered more powerful engines, with the latter’s twin-turbo V8 producing up to 503 horsepower.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 5,126 pounds, was equipped with a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission paired with a full-time 4WD system, providing a 40/60 power split between the front and rear wheels. The GX’s drag coefficient of 0.35 and its V8 engine resulted in an EPA fuel economy estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX’s Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) improved stability and off-road capability. Despite its age, the GX remained agreeable to drive, with a comfortable ride and capable off-road performance. However, the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the driving experience.

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 up. The GLC Coupe’s fastback profile reduced these figures to 49.4 and 17.6 cubic feet, respectively. The GLC’s interior featured a decently sized center console, deep door pockets, and retractable cupholders, making good use of its space. Rear-seat space was adequate, with plenty of legroom and headroom in the SUV, though the Coupe’s low roofline cut into headroom.

The 2022 Lexus GX provided an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. The cabin featured comfortable seats, NuLuxe upholstery, and black ash wood trim. However, the rear door openings were narrow, making entry tricky. The third-row seat was challenging to access and uncomfortable for adults. The GX’s cargo space was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading.

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

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 introduced a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the old Remote Touch Interface touchpad. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The GX also featured a CD player, a Lexus app, and Lexus Enform connected services with a WiFi hotspot. The stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls, making them harder to use. The infotainment display offered a dual-screen view, and the voice recognition technology was quick and accurate. The GX also included Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

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

The 2022 Lexus GX, lacking crash-test ratings, relied on standard Lexus Safety System+ features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. It also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, such as lane-keeping assist and semi-autonomous driving systems.