2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Genesis GV70

The 2023 Genesis GV70 was a testament to the brand's commitment to luxury and style. Its design drew inspiration from the G70 compact luxury sedan, with stylistic connections evident in the split-bar headlights and a strong chrome line that curved from behind the rear window. This chrome bar cleverly suggested a coupe-like SUV without sacrificing versatility. Inside, the GV70's cabin was a showcase of top-notch materials and excellent fit and finish. The design was both contemporary and classic, with climate controls integrated into a curving bezel and a touchscreen that rose organically from the dash. The GV70's dash featured a full touchscreen backed by a rotary dial and button controls, offering a tactile experience superior to the touch capacitive controls found in some competitors.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a more conservative design approach, likely to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The GLC's exterior updates included new taillights and a revised rear end, with door handles repositioned beneath the bodywork crease. The headlights were narrower and more menacing, while the taillights were connected by a trim piece stretching across the back. The GLC Coupe retained its steeply sloping profile, distinguishing it from the SUV variant. Inside, the GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with a layout that angled controls toward the driver. The interior was sumptuous, with options for two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The GLC was heavy on gadgetry, with numerous screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, making it a class leader in technology.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 offered a choice between two gas-powered engines and an electrified variant. The 2.5T model featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque, while the 3.5T model boasted a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine with 375 horsepower and 391 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GV70 Electrified used a 77.4-kWh battery pack powering two electric motors, delivering a combined 429 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, with a Boost Mode increasing output to 483 horsepower for short bursts. The electric GV70 had a range of 236 miles and supported DC fast charging.

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 300, the base model, offered 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque from a mild-hybrid turbo-four. The GLC 300 was rear-wheel-drive, with an optional 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. Both powertrains used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 featuring the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed for faster shifts. The GLC 43's performance suspension and four-wheel steering provided a sporty driving experience, though it resulted in a firmer ride.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 provided 56.9 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 28.9 cubic feet with them in use. It came standard with a hands-free power liftgate. The front seats were comfortable, but rear legroom was tighter, requiring front-row occupants to adjust their seats. The rear bench reclined for added comfort.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe had less cargo space, with 17.6 cubic feet available and 52.6 cubic feet with the seats down. The GLC's cabin was driver-biased, with controls angled toward the driver. Both front seats offered heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 featured a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. It included four USB ports, wireless device charging, and a nine-speaker stereo system. The touchscreen was user-friendly, with large icons and logical menu navigation. The GV70 also offered ambient lighting, a digital instrument panel, and the Genesis digital key.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cockpit centered around an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with voice command functionality. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road dash display. The Pinnacle trim featured a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. An Advanced USB package was available, increasing the number of USB-C ports.

The 2023 Genesis GV70 came with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advance Package on the 2.5T added a blind-spot camera system and reverse automatic emergency braking. The Electrified GV70 included most driver-assistance features as standard, with the head-up display available in the Prestige trim.

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, and Pre-Safe, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent collision. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.