2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC presented a blend of new and familiar elements. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing its platform with the updated C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected for the 2024 model year. Despite the GLC 300 being an all-new car, the differences were subtle, with the most noticeable change being the narrower taillights. The design retained its classy and timeless appeal, though some might have wished for a bit more personality to distinguish it from its predecessor. The interior saw a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The GLC Coupe maintained its distinctive coupe-like roofline, setting it apart from the traditional GLC 300.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered both standard and Type S versions, each with various trim packages. The Type S, in particular, aimed to deliver a more dynamic driving experience with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. The MDX Type S featured subtle styling cues, such as chicane-design LED lights and 21-inch wheels, contributing to its understated yet sporty appearance. Inside, the Type S Ultra trim boasted quilted leather, aluminum interior trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, some design choices, like the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, made it challenging to use certain controls. Despite these minor drawbacks, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV, though it struggled to fully deliver on its performance-oriented promise.

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 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive in Canada. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While it provided ample power for highway merging and passing, it wasn't as lively as some competitors. The brake pedal was slightly soft, but effective, and the suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, delivering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more spirited drive with its 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, producing 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S stood out with its turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. Despite the performance enhancements, the MDX Type S struggled to deliver a cohesive driving experience. The transmission was indecisive, and the brake pedal response was inconsistent. The engine's power increase over the standard V6 was modest, and fuel economy was disappointing, averaging 13.9 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The MDX Type S was more agreeable in Normal mode but lacked the predictability and cohesion expected from a performance-oriented SUV.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and high-quality synthetic leather upholstery. The interior featured a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad and cupholders, though the piano black lid attracted dust and fingerprints. The GLC provided sufficient space for taller passengers in the front, while the rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, though this was smaller than some rivals. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and slightly impacted rear headroom.

The 2023 Acura MDX provided three rows of seating, with options for two or three second-row positions. The Type S Ultra trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The MDX offered seven-passenger seating as standard, with a removable centre section in the second row for added flexibility. The third row was best suited for children due to limited space. The MDX's cargo area was spacious, with 461 litres behind the third row and up to 2,021 litres with both rear rows folded. The Type S included a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function for added convenience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a new interior layout with an 11.9-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, the screen's lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system included a capacitive-touch trackpad on the steering wheel, which was sensitive and challenging to use. The system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted a Digital Precision Cockpit with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. The infotainment system required the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the centre console, which was less intuitive than a touchscreen. The TTI design limited storage space and partially blocked the wireless charging pad. The MDX offered Bluetooth and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with Amazon Alexa Built-In. The top-tier ELS Studio 3D audio system provided exceptional sound quality. The MDX also featured a 10.5-inch head-up display with navigation instructions and driving assistance status.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but its predecessor received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, 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 included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera as standard.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including collision mitigation braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also included rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The IIHS named it a Top Safety Pick+, and the NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. However, the MDX experienced a false collision warning during testing, which was concerning.