Compare performance (326 HP vs 680 HP), boot space and price (38,200 £ vs 50,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – BMW X1 or Mercedes GLC?
In the contemporary world of luxury compact SUVs, two titans stand out: the BMW X1 and the Mercedes GLC. Both vehicles are crafted by renowned German automakers, promising a blend of performance, innovative technology, and premium comfort. Let's dive deep into a comparison of these two luxury SUVs, looking at their technical specifications and state-of-the-art innovations.
The BMW X1 offers a range of engine types, including Diesel, Petrol, Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) options, and a Plugin Hybrid model. It features a power output ranging from 136 HP to an impressive 326 HP for the top-end models, with a maximum torque of up to 477 Nm. The X1's performance is robust with an acceleration capability from 0 to 100 km/h as quick as 5.4 seconds in certain trim levels, and it maxes out at a speed of 250 km/h.
On the other hand, the Mercedes GLC presents a slightly more diverse engine lineup with Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, and Plugin Hybrid options available. The GLC's performance peaks with horsepower ranging from 186 HP to a remarkable 680 HP, paired with a superb torque of up to 1020 Nm in the higher-end 4.0-liter configurations. Its acceleration is notably impressive, achieving a 0 to 100 km/h time as rapidly as 3.5 seconds, maxing out at a top speed of 275 km/h for the performance-oriented AMGs.
Fuel economy represents a crucial aspect for many buyers of luxury SUVs. The BMW X1 offers a consumption range from an economical 4.6 L/100km in its Diesel MHEV configuration to 7.7 L/100km for its more powerful variants. The X1 Plugin Hybrid impresses with a low consumption rate of 0.8 L/100km, offering an electric range of 83 km per charge, thanks to its 14.2 kWh battery.
Meanwhile, the Mercedes GLC presents a competitive consumption profile, with figures as low as 5 L/100km for Diesel MHEVs and achieving 0.4 L/100km in the Plugin Hybrid, which is capable of covering an electric distance of up to 130 km on a single charge.
The BMW X1, measured at 4500 mm in length, offers the advantage of compact dimensions, which can be a boon for city driving and parking. Its trunk capacity ranges between 490 L and 540 L, promising decent cargo capacity despite its compact stature.
Conversely, the Mercedes GLC typically spans between 4716 mm and 4792 mm in length, providing more cabin space and a slightly more generous boot capacity, ranging from 390 L for hybrid models to a substantial 620 L for conventional powertrains, making it ideal for longer journeys with additional luggage requirements.
Both the BMW X1 and Mercedes GLC are equipped with the latest advancements in automotive technology. The BMW X1 offers innovations such as advanced dual-clutch automatics, all-wheel drive options, and a plethora of digital interfaces within its infotainment system aimed at creating a seamless driving experience.
The Mercedes GLC boasts the luxury automaker’s latest MBUX system, with enhancements like augmented reality navigation, voice control, and a high-definition display. The availability of sophisticated driver assistance systems further enhances both the safety and comfort elements of the GLC.
When comparing the BMW X1 vs Mercedes GLC, it's clear that both vehicles offer their own unique sets of strengths designed to cater to varying buyer preferences. The X1 brings a balance of power and compact practicality, while the GLC excels in offering more horsepower and luxury space. Choosing between the two ultimately boils down to personal preference, intended usage, and desired features in a luxury compact SUV. Both SUVs have firmly secured their spots as frontrunners in their segment, continuing to push the boundaries of what luxury automotive engineering can achieve.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
BMW X1 is markedly cheaper – starting at 38,200 £ , while the Mercedes GLC costs 50,300 £ . That’s a price difference of around 12,099 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLC uses 1.6 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the BMW X1 with 2.5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.9 L/100km.
As for electric range, the Mercedes GLC offers significantly more range – reaching up to 714 km, about 633 km more than the BMW X1.
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 offers significantly more power – delivering 680 HP compared to 326 HP. That’s roughly 354 HP more horsepower.
When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is substantially quicker – completing the sprint in 3.5 s, while the BMW X1 takes 5.4 s. That’s about 1.9 s quicker.
Looking at top speed, the Mercedes GLC is somewhat faster – reaching 275 km/h, while the BMW X1 tops out at 233 km/h. The difference is around 42 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: the Mercedes GLC delivers clearly more torque with 1,020 Nm compared to 477 Nm. That’s about 543 Nm more.
Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In terms of curb weight, BMW X1 is clearly lighter – 1,575 kg compared to 1,910 kg. The difference is around 335 kg.
Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers slightly more boot space – 620 L compared to 540 L. That’s a difference of about 80 L.
For maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLC offers a bit more capacity – up to 1,740 L, about 195 L more than the BMW X1.
When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLC carries a bit more – 600 kg compared to 500 kg. That’s a difference of about 100 kg.
The Mercedes GLC stands well ahead of its rival in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.
The BMW X1 brings a premium feel to compact crossover life, wrapping practical space and agile handling into a tidy, upscale package. It’s ideal for buyers who want BMW driving dynamics without the bulk, offering everyday comfort and a few clever tricks to keep the commute interesting.
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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.
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
38,200 - 55,500 £
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Price
50,300 - 126,600 £
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Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 7.7 L/100km
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Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.7 L/100km
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh/100km
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Electric Range
81 km
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Electric Range
12 - 714 km
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Battery Capacity
14.2 kWh
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Battery Capacity
94 kWh
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co2
57 - 175 g/km
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co2
0 - 221 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
47 - 54 L
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Fuel tank capacity
62 - 65 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1,575 - 1,935 kg
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Curb weight
1,910 - 2,535 kg
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Trunk capacity
490 - 540 L
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Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
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Length
4,500 mm
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Length
4,716 - 4,845 mm
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Width
1,845 mm
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Width
1,890 - 1,913 mm
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Height
1,630 - 1,642 mm
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Height
1,603 - 1,644 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1,495 - 1,545 L
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Max trunk capacity
1,490 - 1,740 L
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Payload
490 - 500 kg
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Payload
475 - 600 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel, Plugin Hybrid
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
136 - 326 HP
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Power HP
186 - 680 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 9.2 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
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Max Speed
190 - 233 km/h
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Max Speed
210 - 275 km/h
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Torque
230 - 477 Nm
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Torque
320 - 1,020 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Power kW
100 - 240 kW
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Power kW
137 - 500 kW
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Engine capacity
1,499 - 1,998 cm3
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Engine capacity
1,991 - 2,989 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
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Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, D, B, E, A
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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Deutschland
France
Nederland
Great Britain
Sverige
Danmark
Suomi
Italia
Polska
España