2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Lexus GX

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 Coupes anticipated for 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 the new model from its predecessor. Inside, the GLC received a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, aligning with newer Mercedes models. The interior boasted excellent materials and solid construction, offering a simpler and cleaner design compared to competitors like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus RX.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX 550 embraced a bold new design, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of the previous model. The new GX featured geometric styling, with a less pronounced spindle grille and standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive look. The GX's side profile appeared as if carved from a solid block, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline for better visibility. The GX was offered in six trim levels, with the Premium+ expected to be the best-seller. Luxury models focused on opulence, while the Overtrail trims emphasized off-roading capabilities. The interior blended luxury with utilitarian materials, featuring a large 14-inch touchscreen and physical controls for off-road features. The GX was less luxurious than some competitors but was built for durability and hard use.

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. While not as lively as the BMW X3, it offered sufficient power for highway merging and passing. 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 acceleration, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V6, delivering 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, reaching 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The torque was available low in the rev range, aiding off-road performance. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX featured a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It used a 10-speed automatic transmission, offering confident gear shifts. Standard full-time four-wheel drive and a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential were included, with the Overtrail trims adding a locking rear differential. The Overtrail models also featured the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road stability. The GX accelerated well and had effective brakes, though its weight required caution on long descents. Despite its size, the GX handled well on-road, and its off-road capabilities were impressive, though not fully tested due to weather conditions.

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, cupholders, and well-sized door pockets. The GLC provided ample space for front passengers, while the rear seats accommodated average adults, though headroom was limited for taller occupants. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and lowered rear headroom by 1.3 inches.

The 2024 Lexus GX's interior was more minimalist and sophisticated than its predecessor, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, with 41.2 inches of legroom in the front and 36.7 inches in the second row. The third row, available in Premium and Luxury models, was tight and best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, offering 10.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 40.2 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 76.9 cubic feet. Overtrail models provided even more space, with 45.6 cubic feet behind the second row and 90.5 cubic feet in total.

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 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 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen, USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system supported Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Drive Connect offering an intelligent voice assistant. Subscription services like Drive Connect and Remote Connect were available with initial free trials, but required fees afterward. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo available on higher trims. While the interface was user-friendly, the subscription costs for long-term use were a consideration.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but was expected to perform well based on Mercedes' reputation. 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 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-tracing assist, and road-sign recognition. A new proactive driving assist feature was also included. While not yet crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, the GX's modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence in its safety performance.