2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a spacious interior that belied its compact exterior appearance. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant design. The exterior boasted standard Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels, contributing to a sportier and more assertive look. Inside, the MDX's cabin was modernized with a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, although not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety, and the front seats provided exceptional comfort and adjustability.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a blend of new and old design elements. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing a platform with the C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models retained their previous design. The GLC's exterior changes were subtle, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable update. The interior, however, received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The GLC maintained its reputation for excellent materials and solid construction, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals. The GLC Coupe's design remained largely unchanged, with its coupe-like roofline distinguishing it from the standard GLC 300.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which enhanced cornering feel and control through torque vectoring. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and a revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and sporty handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor performance to their preferences.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive were standard in Canada. The GLC's acceleration was smooth, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling, providing a smoother ride than its rivals. The GLC Coupe retained its older four-cylinder turbo engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 engine, delivering 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque for a sportier driving experience.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a third row suitable for smaller passengers. The second row featured a removable centre section and could slide to balance legroom. The MDX provided between 461 and 512 litres of luggage space behind the third row, expandable to 2,690 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power tailgate included a "Walk Away Close" feature and hands-free access. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered well-shaped front seats with ample adjustment options and synthetic leather upholstery. The GLC's interior featured a large centre console bin, wireless charging pad, and well-sized door pockets. The rear seats provided adequate space for average adults, though headroom was limited for taller occupants. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced capacity to 500 litres. The rear seats folded flat for larger items, and a panoramic sunroof was optional.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System on higher trims, offering 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A head-up display and surround-view camera were available on the Platinum Elite trim. The MDX also featured a WiFi hotspot and over-the-air software updates.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and responsive controls, though its lower placement on the dash was distracting. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. The MDX featured a higher percentage of high-strength steel and an advanced safety structure. The AcuraWatch suite of safety features included collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's crash-test results were not yet available, but the previous model received top scores from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more.