2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX presented a modern and sporty design, continuing the aesthetic updates from its 2020 facelift. Available in both standard and long-wheelbase versions, the RX 350 offered seating for five, while the RX 450h hybrid model provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX's exterior was characterized by sharp character lines and angular features, creating an aggressive yet restrained design. The F Sport models added a performance-oriented appearance with 20-inch wheels and unique front fascia, enhancing the RX's high-fashion appeal. Inside, the RX maintained a luxury feel with soft-touch surfaces and high-quality materials, although the centre stack felt somewhat dated. The F Sport models added sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather, but comfort was compromised by less-than-ideal seating adjustments.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC, redesigned for the GLC 300 trim, retained a familiar exterior look with subtle updates like narrower taillights. The design remained classy and timeless, though some might have desired more distinctiveness. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The GLC's cabin was praised for its excellent materials and solid construction, with a simpler and cleaner design compared to rivals. The returning GLC Coupe models maintained their first-generation exterior and interior, offering some usability advantages over the newer sibling. Overall, the GLC continued to exude traditional luxury, focusing on comfort and refinement.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the RX 450h hybrid model combined the V6 with electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All models featured an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. Despite its sporty appearance, the RX's performance was underwhelming, with a lack of sporty dynamics and a V6 engine note that was more hum than growl. The F Sport models included adaptive variable suspension and a Sport+ drive mode, but the differences in driving dynamics were minimal. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, providing a smooth ride and isolated road noise. Fuel efficiency varied, with the RX 350 using 12.2 L/100 km in the city and 9.0 on the highway, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 7.9 L/100 km combined.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel drive were standard in Canada. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The brake pedal was soft but effective, and the suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe retained its older engine, with the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offering a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, providing a sportier option. The GLC 300 delivered a smooth ride and a nearly silent cabin, making it a comfortable choice for long drives.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 2,826 litres of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably seating four adults. The three-row L models had limited space for anything beyond groceries, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration. Cargo space in the standard RX was 453 litres behind the second row, expanding to 923 litres with the seats folded. The three-row models offered 210 litres with all seats up, increasing to 1,657 litres with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot and adjustable-height cup holder, but the rear seats did not fold completely flat, and the cargo area had a high load-in height.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided ample front seat adjustment and comfort, with synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, along with a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC offered sufficient storage options, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably, with slightly limited headroom for taller passengers. The standard GLC had 620 litres of cargo space, smaller than some rivals, but the rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and affected rear headroom.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. The touchscreens were moved closer to the driver in 2020, but the positioning remained ergonomically challenging. The infotainment system included voice commands and a touchpad, though both were frustrating to use. The RX offered a range of tech features, including six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App provided additional connectivity options, such as remote engine start and vehicle settings.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC boasted an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. The GLC's infotainment system lacked physical buttons, making 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 Lexus RX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, featuring adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, road-sign recognition, and a pre-collision system. Additional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights but missed the top-tier "plus" designation. It received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash tests.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's crash-test results were not yet available, but the previous model received top scores from both the NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other advanced features. The GLC Coupe shared similar safety features, with cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera as standard.