2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a testament to the brand's commitment to a timeless aesthetic, characterized by soft curves and rounded edges. While it maintained a modern aggression with its menacing LED headlights, it avoided the overly sharp designs seen in some competitors. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an artful blend of soft lines and curves, with a flowing dash and a floating centre touchscreen. Mercedes-Benz was moving towards larger screens and a minimalist approach, but the GLC's interior design set a high standard for compact luxury SUV cabins.

In contrast, the 2022 Volvo XC90 showcased a sleek and modern design, moving away from the boxy shapes of its past. Its body appeared poised to launch forward, with a long, sleek roofline and pronounced wheel arches that emphasized athleticism. The XC90's fit and finish conveyed quality, and the LED headlights, known as "Thor's Hammer," added a playful nod to its Swedish heritage. Inside, the XC90's interior was described in terms of "Scandinavian Modern" and "Swedish Luxury," with natural wood and metal trim providing an authentic feel. The cabin was spacious and airy, with exquisite details like a sliding wood tambour cover and a clear crystal gear selector handle, reinforcing its luxury status.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 came standard with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered through a nine-speed automatic transmission to the 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The GLC offered various drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, but even in Comfort mode, the engine provided ample power. The steering was soft yet precise, and the GLC struck a balance between refinement and responsiveness. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC 43 offered a twin-turbocharged V6 with 385 horsepower, while the AMG GLC 63 S boasted a twin-turbo V8 with 503 horsepower, delivering sports car-like performance.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrain options. The T5 models featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 250 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The T6 models added a supercharger, increasing output to 316 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. The Recharge models combined a supercharged/turbocharged engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. All XC90 models used an eight-speed automatic transmission and required Premium gasoline. The Recharge model offered an EV range of up to 58 kilometres and could be charged in about five hours with a Level 2 charger. The XC90 handled like a smaller SUV, with minimal body roll and smooth power delivery, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered 1,600 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, dropping to 550 litres with the seats up. The GLC Coupe's fastback design reduced these figures to 1,400 and 500 litres, respectively. The GLC's interior was well-utilized, with a decently sized centre console, deep door pockets, and retractable cupholders. Rear-seat space was adequate, with ample legroom and headroom in the SUV, though the Coupe's low roofline compromised headroom.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. The third row was suitable for children, but adults might find it lacking in legroom and thigh support. The XC90 offered 357 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 1,008 litres with the third row folded, and up to 1,855 litres with both the second and third rows down. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The interior was spacious, with ample storage options and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme heat, and the XC90 was equipped for winter with its AWD system and available heated features.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch touchscreen, centre console touch controller, and advanced voice-control system. The system was intuitive, offering both touch and controller options. The steering wheel had touch-sensitive pads for customizing the digital instrument panel and navigating the infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus.

The 2022 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system offered tablet-like functionality with a nine-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen. While intuitive, the system was occasionally slow to respond. Apple CarPlay worked well, though Android Auto was not tested. The XC90 featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a head-up display, and a 360-degree camera system. Keyless entry and a Harman-Kardon audio system were standard on higher trims, and the XC90 included multiple USB ports for device charging.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC required the purchase of the Intelligent Drive Package for advanced safety features like automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Parking sensors and hands-free parking assist were part of the Premium Plus Package, though the sensors were overly sensitive and could be distracting.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control. Volvo's Pilot Assist system provided semi-autonomous driving assistance on highways. The XC90 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, reinforcing its reputation for safety.