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Ford Explorer vs Mercedes-Benz GLC

2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$38,465

MSRP

$49,250

Listings

1491

Listings

297

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Pros

  • Thrifty fuel economy (especially on GLC 350e)

  • Commendable handling and ride quality

  • Good size and cargo room

Cons

  • Buzzy engine note

  • Tighter backseat area

  • Complicated infotainment

Reviews Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, the Honda Pilot, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Nissan Pathfinder, and the Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Reviews Summary

Mercedes’ handsome compact SUV continues into the 2025 model year with a few revisions and a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. With just two powertrain options and a simplified array of trims, the GLC shows us that a simple-yet-measured approach makes it a strong candidate up against compact luxury SUVs from Audi, BMW, Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, and Volvo.

Verdict: The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is a handsome and compelling new car fit for most duties.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

5

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

MPG City

20

MPG City

24

MPG Highway

29

MPG Highway

32
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$38,465
$49,250
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.2

4.6

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Read full review

8.3 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Pros

  • Thrifty fuel economy (especially on GLC 350e)

  • Commendable handling and ride quality

  • Good size and cargo room

Cons

  • Buzzy engine note

  • Tighter backseat area

  • Complicated infotainment

Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, the Honda Pilot, the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the Nissan Pathfinder, and the Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Mercedes’ handsome compact SUV continues into the 2025 model year with a few revisions and a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. With just two powertrain options and a simplified array of trims, the GLC shows us that a simple-yet-measured approach makes it a strong candidate up against compact luxury SUVs from Audi, BMW, Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, and Volvo.

Verdict: The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is a handsome and compelling new car fit for most duties.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.3L 300 hp I4
2.0L 255 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
7
5
Horsepower
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
MPG City
20
24
MPG Highway
29
32
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