2024 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a redesign that maintained its familiar aesthetic, ensuring it remained recognizable to its loyal fanbase. Designers opted for subtle changes, such as repositioned door handles and more aggressive headlights. 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 sloping profile, with a fastback roof and a grille that differentiated AMG models from the GLC 300. Inside, the GLC boasted a luxurious interior with two-tone leather, wood-and-metal dash treatments, and an abundance of screens and ambient lighting, making it a gadget-heavy yet sumptuous space.

In contrast, the 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser embraced its iconic, boxy design with a flat roof, reminiscent of its predecessors. The heritage grille and LED lighting paid homage to earlier models, while modern touches like colour-selectable fog lights added a contemporary twist. The Land Cruiser featured 18-inch alloy wheels, with 20-inch options available, and off-road gear like a roof rack and skid plate on higher trims. Inside, the cabin offered comfort-focused features such as heated seats and a heated steering wheel, with leather upholstery on premium trims. The interior design emphasized practicality and comfort, ensuring a pleasant driving experience on various terrains.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous V6 model. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the AMG Speedshift MCT offering faster shifts. The GLC 300, with 255 horsepower, provided a more modest performance. Standard 4Matic AWD and performance suspension enhanced the driving experience, though the firmer ride might not suit all drivers.

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, equipped with the i-Force MAX hybrid powertrain, combined a 2.4-litre turbocharged engine with an electric motor, delivering 326 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD with a two-speed transfer case. The Multi-Terrain Select system and locking differentials enhanced off-road capabilities, while the CRAWL control function offered improved low-speed handling. The Land Cruiser excelled in off-road conditions, providing a smooth and capable ride.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior was driver-focused, with controls angled towards the driver and numerous buttons, especially in AMG models. It offered 620 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,680 litres with folded seats. The GLC Coupe provided less space, with 545 litres available, but its hatchback design allowed for 1,490 litres when needed.

The Toyota Land Cruiser featured two rows of seating, with ample headroom and legroom. The centre console housed off-road controls, and the Premium Package included a cool box. The cargo area offered 1,063 litres of space, with a raised load floor and a rubber mat for easy cleaning. The trunk included a 120-volt AC outlet and USB-C ports, enhancing practicality.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC showcased an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering voice command functionality and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Optional features included a Burmester sound system, augmented reality navigation, and a "Transparent Hood" feature for off-road driving.

The Toyota Land Cruiser's 12.3-inch touchscreen, equipped with the Multi-Terrain Monitor, was invaluable for off-road navigation. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with USB-C ports, ensured connectivity. Higher trims offered a JBL sound system, head-up display, and digital rear-view mirror, enhancing the driving experience.

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 advanced driver-assistance systems were available for added safety.

The 2024 Toyota Land Cruiser, though unrated by safety organizations, came with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, including adaptive cruise control and lane-tracing assist. Premium trims added features like lane-change assist and traffic jam assist, ensuring comprehensive safety coverage.