Mercedes-Benz GLC vs Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ continued to captivate with its strikingly handsome design, featuring bold yet tasteful details that set it apart from other electric SUVs. Despite being on the market for five years, its aesthetic appeal remained undiminished. Inside, the LYRIQ offered a sensational blend of technology and old-school luxury, with top-notch materials and user-friendly toggle switches for climate controls. However, it had a mixed reputation for build quality, with some past models exhibiting issues like rattling and misaligned trim. The test vehicle, however, showed signs of improvement, suggesting Cadillac might have addressed these concerns.

In contrast, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a sleek and curvaceous design, avoiding the brand's more recent styling excesses. The AMG GLC 53 variant stood out with its athletic appearance, featuring optional 21-inch AMG forged wheels and distinctive grille and bumper designs. Inside, the GLC offered a range of leather and MB-Tex simulated leather hues, along with various trim options that enhanced its premium feel. The cabin boasted high-quality materials and solid switchgear, contributing to a more luxurious experience compared to some competitors.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a 102-kWh battery pack with a DC fast-charging speed of 190 kW, which was slightly above average but slower than some rivals. It adopted the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port, facilitating access to Tesla Superchargers. The single-motor RWD version produced 365 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, offering an EPA-rated range of 326 miles. The dual-motor AWD LYRIQ-V delivered 615 hp and 650 lb-ft, with a range of up to 285 miles. The tested AWD model had 515 hp and 450 lb-ft, with a range of 319 miles using the standard charger. Despite its power, the LYRIQ's throttle was tuned for a refined, linear acceleration, reminiscent of a classic V8. It balanced comfort and refinement with precise steering and good body control, offering a sophisticated ride even on 22-inch wheels.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered three models with distinct powertrains. The GLC 300 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft, achieving 27 mpg combined with RWD. The GLC 350e plug-in hybrid produced 313 hp and 406 lb-ft, with an estimated 54-mile electric range. The AMG GLC 53, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six and mild-hybrid system, delivered 443 hp and 443 lb-ft, accelerating from 0–60 mph in four seconds. The GLC 53 impressed with its engaging driving experience, aided by rear-wheel steering and a responsive throttle. It achieved better-than-expected fuel economy, with 22 mpg combined and 29.8 mpg on the highway. The ride quality was akin to a sports sedan, offering a connected and engaging feel.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ offered decent interior storage, with large cupholders, wide door bins, and a deep center armrest bin. A large storage tray under the center console accommodated medium-sized items, while a pull-out tray under the dash provided additional space. Cargo capacity was 28 cubic feet behind the rear seats, allowing for easy accommodation of six suitcases. The LYRIQ boasted ample legroom in the back seat, making it comfortable for taller passengers and accommodating rear-facing child seats without much adjustment.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided a comfortable driver's seat with adjustable thigh support and ample reach from the telescoping steering wheel. Rear-seat legroom was slightly limited with a tall driver up front, but still manageable. The rear seatback didn't recline, and fitting a rear-facing child seat required adjusting the front passenger seat. The GLC featured versatile front storage, with a bin under a sliding lid that could transform into cupholders. Cargo capacity was average for the segment, with the GLC holding a comparable amount of luggage to its competitors.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a beautifully crisp OLED touchscreen with an arched design that complemented the cabin's luxurious look. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google built-in functions, though voice commands were somewhat limited. The standard AKS audio system with Dolby Atmos provided exceptional sound quality, a rarity in luxury SUVs without additional cost.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC had a portrait-oriented touchscreen with customizable home-screen layouts. It offered easy access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a shortcut icon for convenience. The GLC 53's Burmester 3D Surround Sound System, part of the Pinnacle trim package, delivered crisp vocals and clean bass. Additional tech features included navigation, entertainment apps, a head-up display, noise-insulating glass, and ambient lighting.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including GM's Super Cruise hands-free highway driving assist system. It received top safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, though it scored poorly for headlight glare.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered standard driver-assistance features, with additional options in the Driver Assistance package. While most systems worked well, the lane-centering assist was inconsistent. Speed-limit-sign detection was effective but could be annoying. Safety ratings were not available, but the similar 2026 GLC was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS.