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Audi A3 Sportback vs Mercedes GLC – Which one offers the better deal?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Audi A3 Sportback or Mercedes GLC?

Audi A3 Sportback

Mercedes GLC

4 (2 Reviews)
rate
A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Audi A3 Sportback vs. Mercedes GLC: A Clash of Luxury and Performance

When it comes to luxury vehicles, both Audi and Mercedes-Benz have long been at the forefront, offering cars that promise performance, elegance, and cutting-edge technology. Today, we delve into a detailed comparison between two of their standout models: the Audi A3 Sportback and the Mercedes GLC. We'll explore their technical specifications, innovations, and what makes each car unique in its own right.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

The Audi A3 Sportback: Brimming with Innovation

The Audi A3 Sportback is a quintessential representation of Audi’s knack for combining style and performance in a compact body type. As a hatchback, it offers versatility alongside a touch of luxury. The 2024 model year brings several engine options including petrol, diesel, mild hybrid, and plug-in hybrid variants, making it highly adaptable to various driving preferences and environmental considerations. The combustion engines range from 116 HP to an impressive 400 HP, catering to both efficiency seekers and performance enthusiasts.

The Technical highlights include a top speed that varies from 205 km/h to 250 km/h, acceleration from 0-100 km/h between 3.8s and 10.1s, and a torque spectrum of 220 to 500 Nm. Moreover, the A3 Sportback prides itself on its aerodynamic design extending 4,353 mm in length and a curb weight varying between 1,360 kg to 1,685 kg depending on the engine type and configuration.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Mercedes GLC: The Epitome of Premium SUVs

Stepping into the realm of SUVs, the Mercedes GLC stands out with its larger-than-life presence and exceptional luxury. The GLC is tailored for those who demand the space and comfort associated with SUVs, without compromising on the driving dynamics that Mercedes-Benz is known for.

The 2024 model year of the GLC offers a variety of engine types such as petrol mild hybrids, diesel mild hybrids, and plug-in hybrids, with a horsepower range from 186 HP to a formidable 680 HP. The SUV's acceleration varies between 3.5s to 9s for a 0-100 km/h sprint, with a top speed that reaches 250 km/h for certain models.

With a spacious trunk capacity spanning from 390 to 620 liters, the GLC caters to families and individuals who need ample storage space. It’s also complemented by a power-packed torque of up to 1020 Nm and boasts superior engineering with dimensions measuring 4,749 mm in length and a weight spectrum spanning from 1,870 kg to 2,415 kg.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Technological Enhancements Across Models

Both the Audi A3 Sportback and the Mercedes GLC shine when it comes to incorporating modern technologies. The A3 Sportback is available with front-wheel and all-wheel drive options, promoting a remarkable driving experience. Its cockpit is designed with the latest digital interfaces, ensuring seamless connectivity and entertainment on the go.

The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, offers standard all-wheel drive, supporting off-road ventures with its robust build. Features like the MBUX interface bring in intelligent voice control, taking in-car communication to new heights. The advanced suspension system ensures a smooth ride, even on rough terrains.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Conclusion: Which One to Choose?

The decision between the Audi A3 Sportback and the Mercedes GLC largely depends on personal preferences. For those seeking a compact, agile vehicle with cutting-edge features, the Audi A3 Sportback is a commendable choice. It is ideal for urban environments, where its size and efficiency shine.

In contrast, if size, cargo space, and SUV luxury are priorities, the Mercedes GLC stands out as a powerhouse with plenty of room for drivers and passengers to stretch out. Its array of advanced features and stately appearance make it perfect for those who often embark on long journeys or adventure drives.

Ultimately, both vehicles reflect their brands' commitment to excellence, and regardless of choice, drivers are sure to enjoy a superior driving experience.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Audi A3 Sportback has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26800 £, while the Mercedes GLC costs 50300 £. That’s a price difference of around 23499 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Audi A3 Sportback manages with 1.10 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the Mercedes GLC with 1.60 L. The difference is about 0.50 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs significantly better – achieving up to 714 km, about 573 km more than the Audi A3 Sportback.

A3 Sportback @ Audi AG

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLC has a significantly edge – offering 680 HP compared to 400 HP. That’s roughly 280 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is barely noticeable quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Audi A3 Sportback takes 3.80 s. That’s about 0.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs barely noticeable better – reaching 275 km/h, while the Audi A3 Sportback tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLC pulls decisively stronger with 1020 Nm compared to 500 Nm. That’s about 520 Nm difference.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Audi A3 Sportback is convincingly lighter – 1360 kg compared to 1910 kg. The difference is around 550 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers clearly perceptible more room – 620 L compared to 380 L. That’s a difference of about 240 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLC performs noticeable better – up to 1740 L, which is about 540 L more than the Audi A3 Sportback.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLC somewhat takes the win – 600 kg compared to 480 kg. That’s a difference of about 120 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes GLC proves to be outperforms in nearly all aspects and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Mercedes GLC is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

Audi A3 Sportback
Mercedes GLC

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis
from about £50,300
GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Mercedes GLC

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 186 - 680 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.6 - 9.9 L
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.9 - 16.6 kWh
  • Electric Range : 12 - 714 km
details

Audi A3 Sportback

The Audi A3 Sportback wraps premium materials and crisp German design into a practical hatchback package that makes daily driving feel smart rather than showy. It’s nimble in the city, composed on longer trips, and carries just enough swagger to satisfy buyers who want quality without shouting about it.

details
A202267_overfull @ Audi AG
A202258_overfull @ Audi AG
A202235_overfull @ Audi AG
A202271_overfull @ Audi AG
A201906_overfull @ Audi AG
A202227_overfull @ Audi AG

Mercedes GLC

4 (2 Reviews)
rate

The Mercedes GLC blends plush cabin comfort and composed road manners into an SUV that feels more grown-up than it looks. It won’t shout for attention, but will quietly please buyers who want refinement, usable space and a touch of luxury without the drama.

details
22C0270_060 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
22C0270_055 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
22C0270_051 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
22C0270_046 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
22C0270_031 @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Reviews Audi A3 Sportback

Reviews Mercedes GLC

4 (2 Reviews)
rate

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Costs and Consumption
Price
26800 - 56600 £
Price
50300 - 126600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.1 - 9.3 L
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh
Electric Range
134 - 141 km
Electric Range
12 - 714 km
Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
co2
25 - 211 g/km
co2
0 - 225 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 55 L
Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
Hatchback
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1360 - 1685 kg
Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
Trunk capacity
280 - 380 L
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Length
4352 - 4381 mm
Length
4716 - 4845 mm
Width
1816 - 1851 mm
Width
1890 - 1913 mm
Height
1415 - 1470 mm
Height
1603 - 1647 mm
Max trunk capacity
1100 - 1200 L
Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
Payload
410 - 480 kg
Payload
475 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
116 - 400 HP
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.8 - 10.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Max Speed
205 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
Torque
220 - 500 Nm
Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 5
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Power kW
85 - 294 kW
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Engine capacity
1498 - 2480 cm3
Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025 - 2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, F, E, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B, A
Brand
Audi
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

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What drive types are available for the Audi A3 Sportback?

The Audi A3 Sportback is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.

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