2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Lexus GX

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. The most noticeable change in the GLC 300 was its narrower taillights, though the overall design remained similar to the first-generation model from 2016. This continuity in design was not necessarily negative, as the GLC had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production. Its styling was classy and substantive, avoiding novelty to maintain a timeless appeal. 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's cockpit design was simpler and cleaner compared to rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus GX underwent a dramatic redesign, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of its predecessor to embrace a more geometric styling. The new GX featured a less pronounced spindle grille, standard triple-beam LED headlights, and a more aggressive front fascia. The GX's design was characterized by minimal character lines and a low window beltline to enhance visibility, especially for off-roading. The interior was minimalist and sophisticated, with fewer physical buttons but retaining essential controls. The GX offered a spacious cabin for front and second-row passengers, though the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was a strong point, with impressive capacity when the third row was folded. The GX's design and functionality positioned it as a premium SUV ready for rugged use.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 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 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 an older engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, delivering 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, with a sportier ride.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-litre V6 engine, producing 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The GX was built on the GA-F truck platform, providing a stiffer chassis for stability on and off-road. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission, full-time four-wheel drive, and a locking Torsen limited-slip centre differential. The Overtrail packages added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced off-road capability. The GX accelerated well and maintained composure on-road, with effective brakes. Despite its size, the GX demonstrated controlled behaviour on-road, and its off-road capabilities were impressive, though not fully tested due to weather conditions.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, with real leather 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 trim attracted dust and fingerprints. The rear seats offered good legroom, though headroom was limited for taller passengers. The standard GLC had 620 litres of cargo space, while the Coupe's sloping roofline reduced capacity to 500 litres.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a minimalist interior with essential physical controls. It offered comfortable seating for six-foot-tall adults in the first and second rows, with 1,047 mm of legroom in the front and 933 mm in the second row. The third row was tight, suitable for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with 292 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,138 litres with it folded, and a total of 2,178 litres. Overtrail models offered even more space, with 1,291 litres of total cargo capacity.

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 2024 Lexus GX boasted a 14-inch touchscreen, USB-C ports, and a wireless charging pad. The Lexus Interface infotainment system provided Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an intelligent voice assistant available through the Drive Connect subscription service. The GX came with a 10-speaker audio system, with higher packages offering a 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo. While the system was user-friendly, subscription costs for certain features could add up over time.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but its predecessor received high ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and a surround-view camera system. The GLC's safety systems were reliable, with smooth adaptive cruise control operation.

The 2024 Lexus GX received significant safety upgrades with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and road-sign recognition. The proactive driving assist feature enhanced safety during highway driving. While not yet crash-tested, the GX's modern architecture and advanced safety features inspired confidence in its safety offerings.