2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Volvo XC90

The 2022 Volvo XC90 represented a significant evolution from the brand's earlier boxy designs, maintaining its family-friendly and safety-oriented image while stepping into the luxury class. After Volvo's acquisition by Zhejiang Geely Holding in 2010, the company developed new platforms, including the Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) for the XC90, which debuted as a 2016 model. The 2022 XC90 showcased a sleek and athletic profile, with pronounced wheel arches and a distinctive "Thor's Hammer" LED headlight design. The interior was a testament to Scandinavian Modern and Swedish Luxury, featuring natural wood and metal trim, with options for Nappa leather or a tailored wool blend upholstery.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC, particularly the GLC 300, was redesigned, sharing a platform with the C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year. The new GLC 300 had subtle exterior changes, like narrower taillights, maintaining a timeless design. The interior received a significant update with a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and high-quality materials. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, offering some usability advantages. Overall, the GLC continued to exude traditional luxury, with a focus on comfort and a smooth ride.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains: the T5 with a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine producing 250 horsepower, the T6 with a supercharged and turbocharged version delivering 316 hp, and the Recharge plug-in hybrid with a combined 455 hp. All models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The Recharge model boasted an electric motor driving the rear wheels, providing spirited acceleration and a smooth driving experience. Fuel efficiency varied, with the Recharge offering an 8.8 L/100 km combined rating in hybrid mode and a 29-kilometre EV range.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The brake pedal was soft but effective, and the suspension prioritized comfort. The GLC Coupe continued with its older engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, producing 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 offered six- or seven-passenger configurations, with easy access to the third row. Cargo capacity was generous, with up to 1,855 litres available with the second and third rows folded. The XC90 could tow up to 2,250 kilograms, making it suitable for light towing. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample storage and a standard panoramic moonroof. The climate control system performed well, even in extreme conditions, and the AWD system and heated features made it winter-ready.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided comfortable front seats with ample adjustment and high-quality synthetic leather upholstery. The interior offered sufficient storage, though the piano black trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC's cargo capacity was 620 litres, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 500 litres and affected rear headroom. A panoramic sunroof was optional on the GLC 300.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a nine-inch touchscreen, offering smartphone-like gestures and Bluetooth functionality. The system was occasionally slow, but Apple CarPlay improved performance. A 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and optional head-up display enhanced driver awareness. The Advanced package included a 360-degree camera and advanced air cleaner. USB ports were available for device charging.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC boasted an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick responses, though its lower placement was distracting. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments challenging. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, and a Burmester 3D Surround Sound system was available.

The 2022 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. It received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation and a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's crash-test results were pending, but it was expected to perform well based on its predecessor's ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Intelligent Drive package added advanced driver assistance technologies.