2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mazda CX-5, despite its age, continued to be a strong contender in the compact crossover SUV market. It was praised for its stylish design and high-quality materials, which gave it the feel of a small luxury SUV. The available turbocharged engine provided impressive power, and the model boasted a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, the CX-5 had its drawbacks, such as a small back seat, limited cargo space, and a frustrating infotainment system. Mazda's decision to transition the CX-5 to the CX-50 was a strategic move to align with broader marketing strategies, hoping to retain its loyal customer base.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar look to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The GLC featured subtle design changes, such as new taillights and repositioned door handles, while retaining its signature grille. The interior was luxurious, with a focus on gadgetry and a driver-biased layout. The AMG GLC 43 model offered a sporty appearance with a distinctive grille and performance-oriented features. The GLC's interior was equipped with high-end materials and advanced technology, making it a class-leading choice for those who appreciated a tech-heavy environment.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine options: a standard 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The turbocharged engine delivered 256 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel, or 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft on regular fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The CX-5's performance was enhanced by structural and suspension improvements, providing a firm and connected ride. However, the turbocharged engine's fuel economy fell short of expectations during testing.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. The engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The base GLC 300 offered 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 43 used an AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission, providing faster shifts and better performance. The GLC's performance models were equipped with a performance suspension and four-wheel steering, offering a sporty driving experience. However, the firmer ride and rougher shifts made it less suitable for daily commuting.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's interior featured comfortable front seats with height adjustment, power adjustment, and heating options. The Signature trim included Nappa leather upholstery and dual-zone climate control. However, the CX-5's technology, storage space, and rear-seat room were lacking. The infotainment system was not user-friendly, and the cargo space was limited, with 30.9 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 59.3 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with a center touchscreen and 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 had less cargo space, with 17.6 cubic feet behind the seats and 52.6 cubic feet with them folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5's Mazda Connect infotainment system featured a 10.25-inch display with sophisticated graphics but was frustrating to use. The lack of a voice recognition system and awkward physical controls made it distracting. The system required memorization and focus, detracting from the driving experience. Despite these issues, the CX-5 offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Bose audio system on upper trims.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering a responsive voice command system. The GLC came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation and a Burmester sound system, while the Pinnacle trim included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The GLC's technology package was comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2023 Mazda CX-5 excelled in safety, with standard i-Activsense driver assistance technology. The 2.5 Turbo Signature trim included additional features like a surround-view camera and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS. However, the lack of a warning for driving without headlights at night was a concern.

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. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. The GLC's safety features were comprehensive, but some advanced systems were optional.