2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition was a striking vehicle, especially in its Black Onyx color. This model eradicated almost all chrome from the exterior, transforming the SUV into a sleek, dark presence on the road. However, it quickly accumulated dust, making it look old and shabby. Despite its modern touches like the signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, the GX's design felt dated, reminiscent of its first-generation predecessor from 2002. Inside, the cabin quality was impeccable, with smooth, refined materials and a quiet atmosphere, save for the faint roar of the V8 engine.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, though redesigned, maintained a familiar look that could easily be mistaken for its first-generation model. The most noticeable change was the new, narrower taillights. The GLC's design was timeless, avoiding novelty in favor of a classic, enduring style. Inside, the GLC received a significant makeover with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern, high-tech feel. The materials and construction were top-notch, providing a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with its 4.6-liter V8 engine, produced 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,126 pounds, the GX managed a 0-60 mph time of 7.8 seconds. However, its fuel economy was a mere 16 mpg in combined driving. The GX's Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) enhanced its stability and off-road capability, though the steering was slow and heavy, and the brake pedal was touchy.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This setup, combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission, allowed the GLC to reach 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The GLC's ride was smooth and nearly silent, with a suspension tuned for comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe, with its older four-cylinder turbo engine, matched the GLC 300's performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, delivered 385 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. Its tall, narrow, and short design made it maneuverable in various environments. The interior featured comfortable seats and well-placed padding, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition included NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. However, the rear seat access was tricky, and the third-row seat was cramped and reduced cargo space. The GX's side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's front seats were adjustable and comfortable for long distances, with synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. The interior offered ample storage, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC provided plenty of space for front and rear passengers, with a panoramic sunroof available. The standard GLC had 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced it to 17.6 cubic feet. The rear seats folded flat for larger items, enhancing practicality.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, eliminating the need for the outdated Remote Touch Interface (RTI) touchpad. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation, along with a CD player and a WiFi hotspot. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls, making them difficult to use. The dual-screen view and excellent voice recognition technology were highlights, and the GX also offered Intuitive Parking Assist and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC boasted an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses, though its lower placement on the dash was distracting. The MBUX infotainment system featured excellent voice recognition but lacked physical buttons for no-look adjustments. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system. The GLC's new layout was visually impactful but more distracting to use compared to the older model's setup.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its dated structure, lacked crash-test ratings. However, it came with Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services. The GX missed some advanced safety technologies found in competitors, but its lack of intrusive driving aids contributed to a favorable driving experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 had not yet been crash-tested, but its predecessor received top 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 GLC Coupe included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera as standard. Both new and old systems were reliable, with smooth adaptive cruise control.