2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, although the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch "741M" wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, a turbocharged V8 engine, and a high-performance turbo V8 variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint, optional wheels, and all available equipment packages, with an MSRP of $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC, a compact crossover, underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar look to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The new design featured updated taillights, relocated door handles, and more menacing headlights. The GLC Coupe shared a similar restrained approach, with a steeply sloping profile and a fastback roof. The interior was luxurious, with two-tone Sienna Brown and Black leather upholstery, optional wood-and-metal dash treatment, and an abundance of screens, buttons, ambient lighting, and vents. The GLC was gadget-heavy, offering a class-leading interior for those who appreciated technology.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured a new mild-hybrid six-cylinder engine and a more powerful electric motor integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission. The lithium-ion battery pack had a capacity of 19.2 kWh, doubling the maximum AC charging rate to 7.4 kW. The xDrive50e offered 38 miles of electric-only driving and 22 mpg in combined driving. It produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV was praised for its driving dynamics, with adaptive damping air suspension and excellent handling. It achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg during a 95.5-mile evaluation drive.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's twin-turbo V6. The GLC 43 used a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed AMG Speedshift MCT transmission, offering faster shifts and better torque handling. The base GLC 300 had 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, with a conventional 9G-Tronic transmission. The GLC 43's performance suspension provided improved handling but a firmer ride. The standard four-wheel steering enhanced cornering capabilities, making it suitable for enthusiasts.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five people and a 33.1 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured Sensafin artificial leather upholstery, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed comfort and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The AMG models featured additional steering wheel controls. Standard features included heated front seats with memory functions, with optional front-seat ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 59.3 cubic feet with rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe had 17.6 cubic feet of cargo volume, expandable to 52.6 cubic feet. The power-folding rear seats and flat-folding design added convenience.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It ran BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate directions. The available head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were praised, but the reduction in physical controls was seen as a drawback.

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 was highly responsive, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. 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. An optional Advanced USB package increased the number of USB-C ports.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving assistance system, which required deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but struggled in moderate traffic conditions. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, but the system occasionally engaged hard braking without cause. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an IIHS safety award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. The optional upgraded version received a "Good" rating. 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 a collision by tightening seatbelts and closing windows. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.