Spec comparison: New Mercedes-Benz GLC vs Audi Q5 vs BMW X3
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC has made its debut in India, continuing its legacy as the brand's best-selling SUV. However, its competitors have also evolved over time, presenting a comprehensive package that includes eco-friendly powertrains, advanced features, luxurious interiors, and technology. While the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 are the primary rivals for the new GLC, let's examine how it measures up against its contenders.
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 | |
| Length | 4,716mm | 4,708mm | 4,682mm |
| Width | 2,076mm | 2,138mm | 2,140mm |
| Height | 1,640mm | 1,676mm | 1,662mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,888mm | 2,864mm | 2,819mm |
In terms of dimensions, the new GLC stands as the longest vehicle among its rivals, boasting the highest wheelbase as wellâ€"surpassing the X3 and Q5. Although the X3 emerges as the tallest SUV, the Q3 takes the lead in width when compared to the GLC and X3. Moreover, the GLC offers a choice of five metallic colour options, while the X3 and Q3 present four paint selections. Mercedes-Benz goes the extra mile by providing three interior theme choices, compared to the two options available from BMW and Audi.
Mercedes-Benz GLC vs BMW X3 vs Audi Q5: Colours and Interior
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 | |
| Exterior colours | Polar White | Phytonic Blue | Glacier White |
| Obsidian Black | Black Sapphire | Manhattan Grey | |
| Nautic Blue | Sophisto Grey Brilliant Effect | Mythos Black | |
| Selenite Grey | Mineral White | Navarra Blue | |
| Mojave Silver | |||
| Interior themes | Macchiato Beige | Cognac | Altas Beige |
| Sienna Brown | Canberra Beige with Black | Okapi Brown | |
| Black | |||
Setting itself apart, the Mercedes-Benz GLC stands as the sole vehicle in this group to offer both petrol and diesel powertrain options. In contrast, the X3 features a diesel engine, while the Q5 solely offers a petrol motor. Impressively, the Q5 boasts the most powerful engine, followed by the petrol-driven GLC, whereas the GLC diesel variant offers the highest torque output.
Mercedes-Benz GLC vs BMW X3 vs Audi Q5: Powertrain
| Mercedes-Benz GLC Petrol | Mercedes-Benz GLC Diesel | BMW X3 Diesel | Audi Q5 Petrol | |
| Displacement | 1,999cc, 4-cyl | 1,993cc, 4-cyl | 1,995cc, 4-cyl | 1,984cc, 4-cyl |
| Power output | 258PS | 197PS | 190PS | 265PS |
| Torque output | 400Nm | 440Nm | 400Nm | 370Nm |
| Acceleration 0-100kmph | 6.2 seconds | 8 seconds | 7.9 seconds | 6.1 seconds |
| Top speed | 240kmph | 219kmph | 213kmph | 240kmph |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic | 7-speed automatic |
| Mileage | 14.72kmpl | 19.47kmpl | 16.55kmpl | 13.47kmpl |
Turning to fuel efficiency, the diesel-powered GLC asserts a mileage of 19.47kmpl, while its diesel counterpart, the X3, returns a fuel efficiency of 16.55kmpl. In this aspect, the Q3 presents the lowest fuel economy, rated at 13.47kmpl. On another note, the GLC's petrol engine delivers a mileage of 14.72kmpl.
Mercedes-Benz GLC vs BMW X3 vs Audi Q5: Prices (ex-showroom)
| Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 Diesel | Audi Q5 Petrol |
| 300 4Matic - Rs 73.50 lakh | xDrive20d xLine - Rs 68.50 lakh | Premium Plus 45 TFSI Quattro - Rs 61.47 lakh |
| 220d 4Matic - Rs 74.50 lakh | xDrive20d M Sport - Rs 70.90 lakh | Technology 45 TFSI Quattro - Rs 67.26 lakh |
The luxury automobile market in India, particularly for SUVs, has been witnessing a notable surge in demand. This increased interest has resulted in intensified competition among various offerings. The latest generation GLC has stepped into this competitive landscape, capitalising on its new strengths. Simultaneously, the X3 and Q5 bring their own distinctive attributes to the table. Mercedes' GLC boasts an array of features, offering a choice between powerful and efficient petrol and diesel engines, advanced equipment, mild-hybrid technology, and all-wheel drive capabilities across its lineup. It is worth noting that its primary rival, the X3, is similarly well-equipped, further fuelling the rivalry in this fiercely contested segment.
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