2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 marked a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with a long roofline and pronounced wheel arches. Its interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern design, featuring natural wood and metal trims, and offered a choice between Nappa leather and a tailored wool blend upholstery.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented 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, aligning with Mercedes' modern design language. It featured a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and high-quality materials, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which still held usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the T8 plug-in hybrid combining gasoline and electric power for a total of 455 hp. The T5 models were available in front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD), while the T6 and T8 were AWD only. The T8's electric motor drove the rear wheels, providing a smooth and spirited driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the T5 FWD achieving up to 25 mpg combined, and the T8 offering 55 MPGe with an 18-mile electric range.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with standard rear-wheel drive and optional 4Matic AWD. The GLC 300 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, offering smooth and linear power delivery. The GLC Coupe retained its older engine, matching the GLC 300's performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 385 hp, reaching 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 accommodated six or seven passengers, with easy access to the third row via a one-handed slide and fold mechanism. While the third row was suitable for children, adults might find it lacking in legroom. The XC90 offered 15.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 85.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. It could tow between 4,000 and 5,000 pounds, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious and airy, enhanced by a panoramic moonroof, and the air-conditioning system performed admirably during hot weather.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. The cabin offered sufficient storage, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC's rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably, with ample legroom but slightly limited headroom. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, while the Coupe's sloping roofline reduced capacity to 17.6 cubic feet. The rear seats folded flat for larger items, and a panoramic sunroof was optional.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering tablet-like functionality. While intuitive, the system was occasionally glitchy, performing better with Apple CarPlay. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The XC90 came with a Harman Kardon sound system, with an optional Bowers & Wilkins upgrade for audiophiles. Connectivity included USB ports, a WiFi hotspot, and the Volvo Care app for remote vehicle controls.

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 offered excellent voice recognition, but the steering wheel's trackpad was overly sensitive. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 continued the brand's legacy of safety, featuring blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving capabilities on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, earning the Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall rating.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's crash-test results were pending, but the previous model received top scores from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. The Coupe shared similar safety features, with additional cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.