2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV presented a blend of new and old elements. 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 differences were subtle, with the most noticeable change being the narrower taillights. Its design remained classy and timeless, maintaining the elegance that led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run. The interior received 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 retained its first-generation interior, which aged well and offered some usability advantages over its newer sibling.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant evolution from Volvo's past designs, moving away from the boxy shapes of the 1980s and 90s. The XC90's design was purposeful yet understated, with a stout front end and an assertive grille. The "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern flair, and the overall dimensions leaned toward a rectilinear shape without resembling the toasters of old. The XC90's interior was elegant, featuring two-tone leather steering wheels, metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist design included wood deco inlays, contributing to a clean and beautiful look. However, the lack of physical controls led to some usability frustrations, as many functions were integrated into the touchscreen interface.

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 it offered ample power for highway merging and passing, it wasn't as lively as the BMW X3's powertrain. The brake pedal was a bit soft, but effective, and the suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling. The GLC 4Matic Coupe continued with its older engine, offering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, providing a sportier option.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid version of the previous powertrain, producing 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency slightly and contributed to smoother operation. The XC90's driving experience was enjoyable, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle handled corners well, despite its size, and road and wind noise were minimal. The brakes provided a solid pedal feel, inspiring confidence. The XC90 lacked extensive customizable driving dynamics, focusing on simplicity with a manual shift feature and an off-road mode.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, and real leather was available for smoother surfaces. Standard features included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC provided adequate storage space, though the piano black lid attracted dust and fingerprints. The rear seats offered good legroom, but headroom was limited for taller occupants. The standard GLC had a cargo capacity of 620 litres, while the GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced it to 500 litres.

The 2023 Volvo XC90's front seats provided a peaceful and pleasant experience, but the minimalist design led to limited storage space. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging. The XC90 offered 356 litres of cargo space with the third row in place, expanding to 1,183 litres with the seats folded. The maximum cargo capacity was 1,856 litres, falling short of some competitors. Despite its size, the XC90 drove like a smaller car, offering a more compact experience than typical three-row SUVs.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured 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, 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 2023 Volvo XC90's 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran on Google OS, integrating Android Auto features. Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant were standard, enhancing the user experience. The natural-language recognition was a highlight, allowing for seamless interaction. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions led to some frustration. Keyless entry was standard, with an optional head-up display.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its predecessor received top scores. 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 more. The Coupe offered additional standard features like cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, carrying a five-star NHTSA rating and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology provided additional support, maintaining distance from the car ahead and assisting with lane-keeping.