2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented a blend of the familiar and the new. While the GLC 300 was redesigned, the Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected in the 2024 model year. The changes in the GLC 300 were subtle, with the most noticeable being the narrower taillights, making it easy to mistake for the first-generation model from 2016. Despite this, the GLC maintained its classy and timeless design, though some might have wished for a bit more personality to distinguish it from its predecessor. Inside, the GLC received a significant update with a modern, high-tech interior featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering excellent materials quality and solid construction.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE's aesthetic changes were minimal but impactful. The headlights and taillights were sharper, and black fender flares were added over the wheel arches. The grille received chrome inserts, and the optional AMG Line package added a sporty touch. The GLE Coupe, available only in the Mercedes-AMG guise, offered a sportier look but with reduced interior space. Inside, the GLE retained a luxurious feel with plenty of leather and soft-touch surfaces, though it wasn't as futuristic as the newer all-electric EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was a highlight, though the Bahia Brown seating surfaces gave the cabin a dated look.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was limited to 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, which was average for its class. The brake pedal was a bit soft, but effective, and the suspension favored comfort over sporty handling, providing a smooth ride. The GLC 4Matic Coupe continued with its older engine, offering 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe boasted a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. The new 450e plug-in hybrid, however, was the standout, combining a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite being slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to its 23.3-kWh battery, the 450e offered an impressive electric range of up to 55 miles. The transition from electric to gas power was seamless, though the driving dynamics were more comfort-oriented than sporty. The 450e featured an 11-kW onboard charger and could accept a 60-kW DC fast charge, making it convenient for road trips.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, with real leather available for a smoother feel. Storage options included a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and well-sized door pockets. The GLC provided plenty of space for front passengers, while rear seats accommodated average adults, though headroom was slightly limited. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, smaller than rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and rear headroom by 1.3 inches.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, with standard heated front seats and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and soft-close doors added to the comfort. The cabin remained quiet, and the Burmester stereo system enhanced the experience. However, the sun visors did not extend, which was a minor inconvenience. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space was generous, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

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

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the latest MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than those in other Mercedes models, the menu structure was easy to learn. The augmented reality navigation system was a highlight, providing helpful overlays on the screen. The GLE also included an off-road page with detailed information, though the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto had connectivity issues. USB-C ports were plentiful, offering up to 100W of power.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but the previous model received top scores. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. The Coupe included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with blind-spot monitoring standard and the Driver Assistance Package Plus adding active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from NHTSA, while IIHS gave it top scores in crashworthiness and crash avoidance. The Digital Light package earned an "Acceptable" headlight rating.