2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented a blend of new and familiar elements. While the GLC 300 was redesigned, the Coupe models remained unchanged from the previous year, with new versions expected in the 2024 model year. The redesigned GLC 300 featured subtle changes, such as narrower taillights, making it difficult to distinguish from the first-generation model introduced in 2016. Despite its understated evolution, the GLC maintained its position as a leader in the small luxury SUV class, offering a timeless and classy design. The interior received a significant update, aligning with newer Mercedes models, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, providing a modern and high-tech feel. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which aged well and offered some usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5, with minor changes, retained the design introduced in 2017, which continued to look modern and appealing. The new Carbon Turbo trim, featuring Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats, added a fresh touch. Mazda improved fuel economy for the base engine, eliminated a previous wheel design, and added wireless charging and connectivity options. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the Turbo offering up to 256 horsepower. The interior, upgraded over the years, provided a premium feel at a mainstream price, with comfortable seating and quality materials. Despite being smaller in interior space compared to rivals, the CX-5 offered a comfortable ride for four adults and a well-designed cabin that could be mistaken for a luxury vehicle.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was available in the GLC 300 trim, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with standard rear-wheel drive and optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, offering a comfortable ride with a nearly silent cabin. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, delivering 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, with similar acceleration times. The AMG GLC 43 Coupe, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, offered 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.7 seconds, catering to sport-minded drivers with its sport-tuned suspension and exhaust.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas provided 227 hp and 310 lb-ft. The powertrain was more rewarding with a steady acceleration, offering a good match for the CX-5. However, it was not fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined and observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5 felt tall and narrow, offering excellent visibility and confidence in driving. Mazda's improvements in suspension and handling provided a smoother ride and responsive handling, with G-Vectoring Control Plus enhancing cornering. The CX-5 was quiet on highways and lively in city driving, with the ability to switch to Off-Road mode for trails. It could tow up to 2,000 pounds.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. The interior provided sufficient storage, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC accommodated taller passengers in the front, with adequate rear seat space for average adults. Cargo capacity was 21.9 cubic feet, smaller than rivals, but the rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 17.6 cubic feet and rear headroom by 1.3 inches.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats, redesigned for comfort and support, with six-way power adjustment for the driver. Leather upholstery was standard on most trims, with premium Nappa leather on the Turbo Signature. The interior, though smaller than rivals, was comfortable for four adults, with supportive rear seats and thoughtful design elements. The cabin's quality elevated it above mass-market competitors, with good storage space despite awkward cupholders. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses, though its lower placement on the dash made it distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 avoided touchscreens, favoring traditional controls for various functions. However, it allowed touchscreen operation for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with wireless connectivity available on several trims. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a console knob and buttons, though the native voice interface was less intuitive. Mazda Connected Services offered remote features and safety services, with a 10-speaker Bose sound system standard on the Carbon Turbo.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but the previous model received high ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. The Coupe offered additional standard features like cross-traffic alerts.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 2.5 Turbo Signature included a driver monitoring system and surround-view camera. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from NHTSA, though it did not earn the IIHS Top Safety Pick designation in 2024.