2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Dodge Hornet

The 2023 Dodge Hornet showcased a bold design that was unmistakably Dodge, with its aggressive front end featuring a wide "raccoon mask" face, bulging hood, and dual extractors. The illuminated Rhombi logo on the taillights added a distinctive touch. However, from the side and rear, the Hornet bore a resemblance to the Porsche Macan or Cayenne, which might have felt less Dodge-like but added a premium feel. The Hornet's design was a blend of muscle-car aesthetics and modern crossover cues, appealing to those who appreciated a sporty yet family-friendly vehicle. The choice of standard silver 17-inch wheels was a point of contention, with some preferring the upgraded options available in the Blacktop or Track Pack packages. Inside, the Hornet emphasized performance with red stitching and a flat-bottomed steering wheel, while offering a range of seating options from cloth to perforated leather.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC took a more conservative approach with its redesign, maintaining a familiar look to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The GLC featured updated taillights and a more menacing headlight design, while the door handles were repositioned for a sleeker profile. The Coupe variant retained its distinctive fastback roofline, giving it a sporty silhouette. Inside, the GLC's cabin was luxurious and gadget-laden, with a focus on comfort and technology. The AMG models added sporty touches like a pinstriped grille and additional steering wheel controls. The interior was a showcase of Mercedes' commitment to luxury, with options for leather upholstery and advanced infotainment systems, making it a top choice for those seeking a high-end driving experience.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet boasted impressive performance stats, with its Hurricane 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine delivering 268 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This power output surpassed most competitors in the compact crossover segment, with only the Mazda CX-30 coming close. The Hornet's Sport mode enhanced throttle response and steering, achieving a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 seconds. While the base model was peppy, there was a noticeable lag in acceleration at higher speeds. The Hornet R/T's hybrid powertrain offered improved pickup, making it a compelling choice for performance enthusiasts.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing an impressive 416 horsepower. This was a significant increase from the previous generation's V6 engine. The GLC 43's performance was further enhanced by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT transmission, offering quick shifts and improved torque handling. The base GLC 300, with 255 horsepower, was less powerful but still competitive in its class. The GLC's performance models, while sporty, were not ideal for daily commuting due to their firmer suspension and rougher shifts, but they excelled in delivering a dynamic driving experience.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet's interior offered a driver-oriented layout, with a focus on comfort and adjustability. The GT Plus trim featured leather seats with four-way powered lumbar adjustment and memory settings, enhancing comfort for long drives. The cockpit's design favored the driver, with screens and controls angled for easy access. However, the A-pillar's angle occasionally obstructed visibility, a minor quirk that depended on the driver's position. Overall, the Hornet provided a comfortable and functional interior for both driver and passengers.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was also driver-focused, with a center touchscreen and controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered standard heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The Coupe variant, while offering less cargo space, still provided a practical hatchback-like configuration. The GLC's interior was a blend of luxury and practicality, catering to those who valued both style and functionality.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen, both angled toward the driver. The Uconnect 5 system was intuitive and user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Amazon Alexa connectivity. The GT Plus trim added a 14-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and navigation. The Hornet's tech offerings were comprehensive, providing a seamless and connected driving experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's centerpiece was its 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, and optional upgrades like a Burmester 3D surround sound system and augmented reality navigation. The GLC's tech offerings were extensive, catering to tech-savvy drivers who valued advanced features and connectivity.

The 2023 Dodge Hornet came standard with a suite of advanced driver-assistance features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Tech Pack added a 360-degree camera and Level 2 autonomous driving capabilities. However, the Hornet had not yet been rated by major safety organizations.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with standard safety features like active brake assist and Pre-Safe collision system. Optional safety features were available through the Driver Assistance Package. The GLC's safety credentials were strong, making it a reliable choice for safety-conscious buyers.