2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Ford Bronco

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV presented a blend of the familiar and the new. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing its platform with the revamped C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected for the 2024 model year. Despite being an all-new car, the GLC 300's changes were subtle, with the most noticeable update being its narrower taillights. Its design remained classy and timeless, maintaining the elegance that had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run. The interior saw a more significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which had aged well and offered some usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2023 Ford Bronco was available in nine distinct trim levels, each showcasing a unique blend of retro-cool styling and modern engineering. Its blocky, upright shape, wide horizontal grille, and large round headlights were unmistakable. The Base trim had a primitive charm with steel wheels and minimal adornment, while the Raptor trim stood out with its wide stance and massive tires. The Heritage Edition trim added nostalgic elements like a white grille and plaid seat upholstery. The Bronco's interior continued the rugged theme, with sealed switches and buttons for easy cleaning, and features like a grid-like mesh on seat backs for attaching accessories. The materials prioritized durability over luxury, with a reassuring heft to all elements, and the interior was quieter than a comparable Jeep Wrangler.

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 accelerated smoothly, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While not as lively as the BMW X3's powertrain, it offered a smooth ride with a nearly silent cabin. The GLC Coupe continued with its older engine, delivering similar performance, 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, accelerating to 100 km/h in about 4.7 seconds.

The 2023 Ford Bronco offered three engine choices. The base 2.3-litre four-cylinder engine produced 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, available with a seven-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.7-litre V6 engine increased power to 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Raptor's 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 delivered 418 hp and 440 lb-ft of torque. All Broncos featured a 4WD drivetrain and a two-speed transfer case. The Bronco's ride quality was bouncier than a typical SUV but more stable than a Jeep Wrangler. It handled off-road conditions confidently, with features like Trail Turn Assist enhancing its capabilities.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and standard heated seats and steering wheel in Canada. The interior featured synthetic leather upholstery, with real leather as an option. Storage options included a large centre console bin, door pockets, and a bin under the centre armrest. The GLC provided ample space for front passengers, while rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably. The standard GLC offered 620 litres of cargo space, with the Coupe's sloping roofline reducing it to 500 litres.

The Ford Bronco's boxy shape provided generous interior space, with the four-door model offering easier access to rear seats. Storage options included netted door pockets and a rubberized tray between the front seats. The two-door Bronco offered 634 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,481 litres with seats folded, while the four-door model provided 1,008 litres and 2,197 litres, respectively. The rear seats didn't fold flat, but the roof's mounting points could support an overlanding platform and tent. The Bronco's fenders and doors were easily removable, enhancing its off-road versatility.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses, though its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. 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.

The Ford Bronco incorporated technology to enhance its off-road capabilities, with G.O.A.T. drive modes optimizing engine and suspension settings for various terrains. Camera views provided visibility in tight spots, and Trail Turn Assist allowed for sharp turns. The Bronco's infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Ford’s SYNC 4 and FordPass Connect as standard. Most models featured an eight-inch touchscreen, with a 12-inch display available for easier use.

Crash-test results for the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 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.

The Ford Bronco received partial crash-test results, with the four-door model earning four stars for frontal crash protection and three stars for rollover protection from NHTSA. IIHS awarded it "Good" in most tests. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and hill-start assist. The Mid package added features like a blind-spot monitor and lane-keep assist, while the High and Luxe packages offered additional safety technologies.