2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Lexus TX

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 its 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 run. Its styling was classy and substantive, avoiding novelty and ensuring timeless appeal. However, some felt that a bit more personality could have distinguished the new GLC from its predecessor. The interior of the new GLC received a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The materials quality and construction remained excellent, with a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX.

The 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but distinguished itself as a luxury SUV. It featured upscale styling, with our test model showcasing impressive 22-inch wheels included in the TX 350 Executive packages. The TX's design was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a toned-down aesthetic. The TX came in various model series, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486. The TX 350, likely the volume-selling version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard all-wheel drive. The Ultra Luxury package added premium interior features, though the cabin felt dark even with the panoramic sunroof. Despite this, the TX 350's interior was luxurious enough to bear the Lexus badge.

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, which was average for its class. 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 slightly soft, but effective, and the suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, offering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe featured a more powerful 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, delivering 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, with a sportier ride.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in roughly eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque delivery. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, slightly better than the previous RX L model. During testing, it averaged 13.8 L/100 km. The TX 350 offered a comfortable ride with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The brake pedal was soft but easy to modulate. Overall, the TX 350's performance was adequate for typical driving situations, though its engine note was somewhat grating.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered front seats with ample adjustment options, providing long-distance comfort. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, with real leather available for smoother surfaces. Standard features in Canada included heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC provided sufficient storage options, though the piano black lid of the centre console attracted dust and fingerprints. The front seats offered plenty of space for taller passengers, while the rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably. The standard GLC had a cargo capacity of 620 litres, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and rear headroom by 35 millimetres.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. It featured premium semi-aniline leather and artificial suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The second-row bench seat was standard, with captain's chairs available in the Executive package. The TX provided a habitable third-row seat, accommodating adults comfortably. The second-row seat could be adjusted to improve third-row comfort, though it impacted second-row legroom. The TX offered numerous storage options, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise. Cargo space measured 572 litres behind the third-row seat, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third-row seats folded, and 2,746 litres with the second-row seats down, offering ample space for road trips.

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, though it interrupted audio playback. The new system lacked physical buttons, making adjustments more distracting. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2024 Lexus TX included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror, with additional features in the Executive packages. The head-up display replaced marked steering wheel controls with unmarked ones, causing distraction. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition, available through a Drive Connect subscription. The TX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson premium audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS, but previous models received high 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 features. The Coupe included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. The Executive packages added parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.