2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged, maintaining the broad, rounded face and expansive sheet metal of its predecessor. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the previous L-shaped trim. The rear saw the most significant change, with the introduction of thin LED taillights integrated into a darker trim, replacing the old square lights. The Range Rover continued to emphasize its size, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length. Inside, the cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger touchscreen, while maintaining a familiar design. Premium materials, including leather and wood trim, enhanced the luxurious feel, and the solid construction ensured a quiet, creak-free ride.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was a blend of new and old, with the GLC 300 receiving a redesign while the Coupe models carried over from the previous year. The GLC 300's exterior changes were subtle, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable update. The interior, however, saw a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a modern, high-tech design. The materials and construction quality remained excellent, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit compared to rivals. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which aged well and offered some usability advantages. Overall, the GLC-Class maintained its traditional luxury appeal, focusing on timeless design rather than sporty or tech-heavy features.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover handled surprisingly well for its size, with well-managed body roll and agile maneuverability, aided by standard rear-wheel steering. It excelled in off-road capability, thanks to the Terrain Response system, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride on the road.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GLC 300 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, offering smooth and linear acceleration. The brake pedal was slightly soft, but effective, and the suspension favored comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe retained its older four-cylinder turbo engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, and a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The AMG model provided a firmer ride and louder engine, appealing to sport-minded drivers.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a phone tray with wireless charging, and a large center console bin. The second row offered power recline and sliding adjustments, climate controls, and USB-C ports. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension aided in loading cargo.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured front seats with ample adjustment and firm cushioning, with synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. Storage included a large center console bin with wireless charging, cupholders, and door pockets. The rear seats accommodated average adults, with limited headroom for taller passengers. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, smaller than rivals, but adequate for most needs. The rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and rear headroom by 1.3 inches.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharp graphics and quick responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The screen's lower placement required more attention, but some climate controls were designed for easy use. The base Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa integration, remote parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and smartphone app control.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior was dominated by an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. The system lacked physical buttons for easy adjustments, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard. The available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system catered to audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the cameras proving useful off-road. Some rivals offered additional safety features not present in the Range Rover.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 had not been crash-tested, but the previous GLC received high ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, evasive steering assist, and emergency stop assist. The Coupe included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.