2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Toyota 4Runner

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented a blend of new and familiar elements. 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. Despite its newness, the GLC 300 retained the classic and substantive styling that had made the first-generation GLC a leader in the small luxury SUV class since 2016. The interior saw a more significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The returning Coupe models maintained their distinctive coupe-like roofline and first-generation interior, which had aged well.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota 4Runner was a throwback to an earlier era, having last been redesigned for the 2010 model year. Its boxy shape and flared fenders gave it a rugged and stable appearance, ideal for off-road adventures. The TRD Pro model enhanced this ruggedness with underbody skid plates and all-terrain tires. Inside, the 4Runner's old-school styling and technology were evident, with an analog instrument panel and a small eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The interior featured hard plastics, but cushioned panels provided some comfort. Despite its dated design, the 4Runner offered excellent outward visibility and practical features like a sliding glass rear window and a hitch receiver.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was 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 rear-wheel drive as standard, while the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system was available. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which was average for its class. The suspension favored comfort over sporty handling, providing a smooth ride and a nearly silent cabin. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, delivering 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, with a similar 0-60 mph time. The AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque. However, its five-speed automatic transmission limited its performance compared to competitors like the Bronco and Wrangler, which had more advanced transmissions. The TRD Pro model came with four-wheel drive and a two-speed transfer case. On-road, the 4Runner felt slow, with noticeable rear-end squat during acceleration. The engine sounded taxed, and the TRD Pro's exhaust was loud. The soft suspension resulted in body roll during cornering and a floaty ride on highways. Off-road, the 4Runner excelled, with its suspension providing excellent wheel articulation.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine leather. The interior provided practical storage solutions, including a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad and cupholders. The GLC's front seats accommodated taller passengers, while the rear seats offered good legroom but limited headroom. The standard GLC had a cargo capacity of 21.9 cubic feet, which was smaller than some rivals. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 17.6 cubic feet and slightly impacted rear headroom.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's interior design appeared dated, but its layout was user-friendly, with large climate-control dials and sturdy handles for off-road stability. The front seats provided ample space, though the steering wheel's limited telescoping range could be an issue for taller drivers. The second row offered generous legroom, but headroom was limited due to the elevated rear bench. The 4Runner had a cargo capacity of 47.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 89.7 cubic feet with the rear seats stowed. The optional sliding deck reduced capacity but added convenience. The 4Runner featured a sliding glass rear window and a hitch receiver with a 5,000-pound towing capacity.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick 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 for audio enthusiasts.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner's infotainment system included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the small eight-inch touchscreen was challenging to use while driving. The TRD Pro model came with a 15-speaker JBL premium audio system, but road noise often obscured its quality. The 4Runner featured additional terrain controls in the headliner console, with dials for Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its predecessor received top scores. 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 GLC's safety systems were praised for their reliability and smooth operation.

The 2024 Toyota 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with four out of five stars from NHTSA for overall and frontal crash protection. IIHS ratings were similarly mixed, with some "Marginal" and "Poor" results in newer tests. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot monitor. The TRD Pro and Limited trims offered a surround-view camera system, but the 4Runner's alerts were sometimes oversensitive.