2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Volvo XC90

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. Despite these updates, the GLC maintained its classic and timeless design, which had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run. The interior saw a more significant transformation, aligning with newer Mercedes models, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The materials and construction quality remained top-notch, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals.

In contrast, the 2024 Volvo XC90 offered a more traditional luxury SUV experience with a focus on practicality, safety, and sustainability. Available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 model series, the XC90 featured a range of powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option. The exterior design was subdued and earthy, with a choice of wheel designs and a Bright theme that contrasted with the blacked-out trend. Inside, the XC90's design was dated but rich in materials, especially in the Ultimate trim. Volvo's wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim added a touch of class, and the SUV provided more customization options for paint, wheels, and upholstery than some rivals.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 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, and 4Matic all-wheel drive was available. 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. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, matching the GLC 300's performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 385 hp, reaching 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor, delivering 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 32 miles of electric-only range and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The XC90 accelerated to 60 mph in five seconds in Power mode. Recharging was straightforward, with options for standard and 240-volt outlets. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, Hybrid, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's handling was more luxury-oriented, with a firm ride and less thrilling dynamics compared to performance SUVs.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and high-quality synthetic leather upholstery. Storage was adequate, with a large center console bin, cupholders, and door pockets. The GLC provided plenty of space for front passengers, while rear seats accommodated average adults with limited headroom for taller occupants. 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 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 came well-equipped with power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. Higher trims added features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats with massage, and an integrated booster child seat. The front seats had adjustable lower leg support bolsters, but their design could catch on clothing. The XC90 seated seven or six with captain's chairs, offering a comfortable bench seat in the second row. Cargo capacity was 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses, though its lower placement made it more 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 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen used Google Built-in technology, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with optional Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins audio systems. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and an available head-up display.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested, but its predecessor received top ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a surround-view camera system.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled with certain road conditions.