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2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2026 Ford Explorer

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$49,250

MSRP

$38,465

Listings

115

Listings

3053

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Thrifty fuel economy (especially on GLC 350e)

  • Commendable handling and ride quality

  • Good size and cargo room

Cons

  • Buzzy engine note

  • Tighter backseat area

  • Complicated infotainment

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC Reviews Summary

The handsome Mercedes-Benz GLC compact SUV continues into the 2025 model year with a few revisions and a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. The GLC shows us that a simple yet measured approach makes it a strong candidate up against compact luxury SUVs from Audi, BMW, Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, and Volvo. This review covers the non-AMG GLC models, while AMG GLC models are reviewed separately.

Verdict: The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is a handsome and compelling new car fit for most duties

2026 Ford Explorer Reviews Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

5

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

24

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

32

MPG Highway

29
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC
$49,250MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$49,250
$38,465
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.0

5.0

Expert reviews

8.3 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Thrifty fuel economy (especially on GLC 350e)

  • Commendable handling and ride quality

  • Good size and cargo room

Cons

  • Buzzy engine note

  • Tighter backseat area

  • Complicated infotainment

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Summary

The handsome Mercedes-Benz GLC compact SUV continues into the 2025 model year with a few revisions and a new plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) variant. The GLC shows us that a simple yet measured approach makes it a strong candidate up against compact luxury SUVs from Audi, BMW, Genesis, Lexus, Porsche, and Volvo. This review covers the non-AMG GLC models, while AMG GLC models are reviewed separately.

Verdict: The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC-class is a handsome and compelling new car fit for most duties

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 255 hp I4
2.3L 300 hp I4
Drive Train
RWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
5
7
Horsepower
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
24
20
MPG Highway
32
29
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