2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar look to keep its loyal fanbase content. Designers made subtle changes, such as repositioning door handles and narrowing the headlights for a more aggressive appearance. The taillights were updated with a connecting trim piece, and the rear design saw less chrome and a more pronounced trunk kick. The GLC Coupe retained its distinctive fastback profile, with a grille that differentiates AMG models from the GLC 300. Inside, the GLC impressed with its luxurious feel, featuring two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash. The interior was gadget-heavy, with numerous screens and ambient lighting, offering a class-leading experience for tech enthusiasts.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban, a long-standing automotive icon, continued to blend into traffic despite its massive size. Measuring 5,733 millimetres in length and 1,923 millimetres in height, it was not for everyone, especially in urban settings. However, it catered to those needing ample cargo and passenger space. Available in six trims, the Suburban offered features like automatic wipers and LED lights, with higher trims adding luxury touches. The interior provided comfort with leather upholstery and options like heated seats and tri-zone climate control. Despite its size, the Suburban's interior felt somewhat pedestrian, though it offered practical features for long journeys.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous V6 model. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced performance, with a plug-in hybrid expected in 2025. The GLC 300, with 255 hp, offered a more modest option. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 featuring a multi-clutch system for faster shifts. The performance suspension provided improved handling but a firmer ride, making it less ideal for daily commuting.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 hp, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel with 277 hp. The diesel engine provided better fuel economy and towing capabilities. A 10-speed automatic transmission managed shifts efficiently, and the Suburban's size was balanced by responsive steering and brakes. The air suspension handled rough roads well, though drivers needed to account for its weight and potential body roll.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled towards the driver. Standard features included heated front seats with memory functions, while ventilation and heated rear seats were optional. The GLC SUV offered 620 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,680 litres with folded seats. The Coupe variant provided less space, with 545 litres expanding to 1,490 litres.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 1,175 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,656 litres with seats down, and a maximum of 4,097 litres. This capacity surpassed competitors, making it ideal for families needing space for road trips and towing. A 106-litre fuel tank supported long journeys, especially with the diesel engine's efficiency.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering voice commands and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features included a Burmester sound system and augmented reality navigation.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban came with a 10.2-inch touchscreen, standard on most trims, featuring Google Built-in for seamless app access. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were included, with an optional rear-seat entertainment system. The Bose audio system, while decent, lacked the richness of higher-end options.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard features like active brake assist and Pre-Safe collision system. Optional ADAS included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered Super Cruise for semi-autonomous driving on pre-mapped roads.