2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid was redesigned with subtlety in mind. The RX 350h Luxury model, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch wheels, looked nearly identical to the standard RX 350, lacking any overt hybrid indicators. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Despite its popularity, the RX maintained a blunt-nosed design, with a stretched wheelbase and signature rear roof pillar that made it appear smaller. Inside, the RX embraced minimalism with fewer controls and an improved infotainment system. The RX 350h Luxury featured Macadamia leather and Ash Bamboo trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance offered a darker, sportier interior with optional Rioja Red upholstery.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC retained a familiar look, with minor updates like new taillights and repositioned door handles. The headlights were narrower and more aggressive, while the taillights connected with a trim piece across the back. The GLC Coupe maintained its fastback profile, distinguishing it from the SUV version. Inside, the GLC was luxurious, with a driver-focused layout and abundant controls, especially in AMG models. The Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 featured two-tone leather and a wood-and-metal dash, emphasizing its premium feel. The GLC was gadget-heavy, with numerous screens and ambient lighting, making it a tech-lover's dream.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two main variants. The RX 350h featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving 36 mpg in combined driving. It accelerated to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.9 seconds. It included an adaptive damping suspension and Dynamic Rear Steering, enhancing its sporty feel. However, its fuel economy was lower at 27 mpg, and real-world testing showed an average of 20.9 mpg.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 416 hp, supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The base GLC 300 offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Both used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 employing an AMG Speedshift MCT for faster shifts. The GLC 43's performance suspension and four-wheel steering provided a sporty drive, though it resulted in a firmer ride. The GLC 300 offered a more comfortable experience, with optional AWD for added versatility.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided comfort with ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and a three-zone climate control system. The RX 500h F Sport Performance had eight-way adjustable seats with larger bolsters. The battery placement under the rear seat improved leg support but reduced headroom. Cargo space was 29.6 cubic feet, expanding to 46.2 cubic feet with seats folded, an improvement over the previous model.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC had a driver-focused cabin with a touchscreen angled toward the driver. Front seats offered heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation. Cargo space in the GLC SUV was 21.9 cubic feet, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with seats down. The GLC Coupe offered less space, with 17.6 cubic feet, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet. Power-folding rear seats added convenience.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system and Intelligent Assistant. The system had some usability issues, such as screen reflections and menu navigation challenges. The available head-up display added dual-function control pads, which could be distracting.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering responsive voice commands. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation and a Burmester sound system. The Pinnacle trim added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. An Advanced USB package increased connectivity options.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and Traffic Jam Assist were also included. Some features, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had usability issues.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard features included active brake assist, attention assist, and Pre-Safe. Optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. The GLC's safety features were comprehensive, though some advanced systems were optional.