2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Acura MDX was available in standard and Type S versions, each with trim packages that enhanced its equipment. The standard MDX offered a base level with Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages, while the Type S came in standard or Advance trim. Prices ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The test vehicle, a Type S Advance, featured Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior, with an MSRP of $74,995. Despite its high price, the MDX Type S sometimes fell short of expectations for quality and luxury. The fourth-generation MDX was the first Acura SUV to bear the Type S badge, with subtle design elements like chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels. Inside, it boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package, but some design choices, like the gloss black plastic and electronic transmission switchgear, were less user-friendly.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC, a best-seller in the US, underwent a generational redesign that maintained a familiar look to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The GLC featured new taillights, repositioned door handles, and a more menacing headlight design. The Coupe version retained its steeply sloping profile, while the SUV resembled an inflated hatchback. The AMG GLC 43 stood out with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 416 horsepower, aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The GLC's interior was sumptuous, with two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The cabin was gadget-heavy, with screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, making it a class-leading choice for tech enthusiasts.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S was distinguished by its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, a notable increase over the standard 3.5-liter V6. However, the Type S was 285 pounds heavier than the lightest standard MDX with AWD. The engine was paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which could direct up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel. The MDX Type S featured an Integrated Dynamics System with multiple driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite these enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive performance experience. The transmission was indecisive, the ride lacked compliance, and the brakes were difficult to modulate. The engine's power increase was insufficient to justify its poor fuel economy, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing. The MDX Type S was more agreeable in Normal mode but faltered in Sport and Sport+ modes, with issues like squealing tires and excessive body roll.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. The GLC 43's engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, and a plug-in hybrid AMG GLC 63 was anticipated for 2025. The GLC 43 outshone the base GLC 300, which offered 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 300 was rear-wheel-drive, with an optional 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLC 43 came standard with AWD. Both powertrains used a nine-speed automatic transmission, but the GLC 43's AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed offered faster shifts and better torque handling. The GLC 43's performance suspension provided improved handling but a firmer ride, making it less suitable for commuting. Enthusiasts appreciated the GLC's sporty nature, enhanced by standard four-wheel steering.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seats, with options for two or three second-row seating positions, and a spacious cargo area. The test vehicle featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, wrapped in quilted leather. However, the seats were firm and didn't provide the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX accommodated seven passengers, with a removable second-row center section for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children. The cabin prioritized style over storage, with limited space in the front center armrest bin. The cargo area offered 18.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The Type S Advance included a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe offered 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The Coupe's hatchback-like configuration allowed for more space when needed.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display, but the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive. Instead, it used a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the center console, which was less intuitive than traditional touchscreens. The TTI design also limited storage space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad. The MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, but the native voice recognition system was less effective. The test vehicle included a Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system with 25 speakers, delivering impressive sound quality. The Advance package added a 10.5-inch head-up display, but the traffic sign recognition system occasionally misread signs.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cockpit centered around an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen, running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. The system included a responsive voice command feature, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road dash display with a "Transparent Hood" feature. The Pinnacle trim included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. Standalone tech options included an Advanced USB package, increasing the number of USB-C ports from three to six.

The 2023 Acura MDX included Acura Watch, a suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems. Features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and Traffic Jam Assist. The MDX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and optional parking sensors. The MDX received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars for frontal-impact protection.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, blind-spot and exit warning assist, adaptive braking technology, and active parking assist. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. Optional safety features were available through the Driver Assistance Package, adding adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and active lane-keeping assist.