2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and an assertive grille that avoided being overly flashy. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The XC90's dimensions remained somewhat rectilinear, but it was far from resembling a toaster. The test vehicle, in AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels and a Platinum Gray paint with subtle brown undertones, adding depth to its appearance. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with two-tone leather, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior design was complemented by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated atmosphere.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC took a more conservative approach with its redesign, maintaining a familiar look to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The GLC featured updated taillights and a revised rear end design, with a more pronounced trunk and less chrome. The Coupe variant retained its distinctive fastback roofline, while the SUV version resembled an inflated hatchback. The grille design differentiated the AMG models from the GLC 300, with the former sporting vertical bars reminiscent of a pinstriped uniform. Inside, the GLC's cabin was opulent, with a driver-focused layout and an abundance of buttons, especially in the AMG models. The test car featured two-tone leather upholstery and an optional wood-and-metal dash treatment, creating a luxurious and gadget-laden interior.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced new B5 and B6 engines, replacing the older T5 and T6 powertrains. These new engines incorporated mild-hybrid technology, offering improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The B5 engine, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6 powertrain, equipped with a supercharger and turbo, delivered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. While the mild-hybrid setup didn't allow for electric-only driving, it enhanced the XC90's fuel-saving auto stop-start technology. The XC90 provided a comfortable and composed driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the XC90 handled corners well, and its brakes inspired confidence.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing an impressive 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. The GLC 300, in comparison, offered 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GLC 43's AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission provided faster shifts and better torque handling, though it resulted in rougher shifts. The performance suspension, while improved, still delivered a firmer ride. Enthusiasts appreciated the GLC's sporty nature, aided by standard four-wheel steering, but it wasn't ideal for those seeking a comfortable commuter vehicle.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's interior offered a peaceful and pleasant experience, but its Scandinavian minimalism led to some space and storage frustrations. The lack of dedicated cubby space for smaller items, such as cell phones, was a drawback. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard seven-passenger seating. The XC90 provided 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats down. While it drove like a smaller car, its cargo capacity fell short compared to competitors like the Audi Q7 and Acura MDX.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered heat and memory functions as standard, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe, with its tighter interior, offered 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet. The standard power-folding rear seats and flat-folding capability added convenience, though the cargo space was not class-leading.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch vertically positioned touchscreen running Google OS, the first of its kind as a standard infotainment system. It integrated Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant, offering natural-language recognition for seamless interaction. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for key functions led to some frustration, as physical buttons were limited. While the minimalist design was appealing, it required time to get accustomed to the interface.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cockpit centered around an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. The voice command system, activated by "Hey Mercedes," was highly responsive. The GLC came standard with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road dash display with a "Transparent Hood" feature. The Pinnacle trim included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. Optional tech features included an Advanced USB package with additional USB-C ports.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. It featured advanced driver safety tech, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, which worked seamlessly even in challenging traffic conditions. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology provided additional support, maintaining distance and speed on highways. These safety features were standard on the XC90.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, blind-spot and exit warning assist, adaptive braking technology, and active parking assist. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for an imminent crash by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. Optional advanced driver-assistance systems required the addition of the Driver Assistance Package.