Two cars, one duel: BMW X3 meets Mercedes GLC.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!
The SUV segment is rife with rivalry, and none is more compelling than the clash between the BMW X3 and Mercedes GLC. Each has distinctive qualities that cater to different driving enthusiast preferences. In this article, we'll dive into the technical specifications, innovations, and overall performance to give you an overview of what these luxury SUVs offer.
The BMW X3 provides a wide array of powertrain options, from the base diesel MHEV to the high-performance petrol engines, delivering power ranging from 184 to 510 HP. The standout is the petrol engine offering up to 510 HP with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of just 3.8 seconds. Meanwhile, the Mercedes GLC offers its own impressive selection, sporting engines from a modest 186 HP to a potent 680 HP, with acceleration starting at 3.5 seconds for the top-tier models.
Both SUVs employ modern Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicle (MHEV) technology to improve efficiency and performance, but the GLC edges ahead on the electric range front, offering up to 130 km on its plug-in hybrid models compared to X3’s 90 km maximum electric range.
When it comes to fuel consumption, the BMW X3 offers competitive figures, with its plugin hybrid variant consuming as little as 2.1 L/100km. The Mercedes GLC matches closely with its hybrid offering consuming just 0.4 L/100km, thanks to its superior electric range capability.
Regarding CO2 emissions, both models fall within varying efficiency classes. BMW X3's CO2 emissions range from 47 g/km for its eco-friendly models to 246 g/km for higher performance variants. The Mercedes GLC, notably with its top-of-the-line hybrid, boasts CO2 emissions starting at an exceptionally low 10 g/km.
In terms of design, both SUVs maintain a poised stance typical of German automakers. The BMW X3 has a slightly taller height of up to 1676 mm, providing a more towering presence on the road, while the Mercedes GLC offers a sleeker profile with a maximum height of 1647 mm. Both models hold five doors and accommodate up to five passengers comfortably.
Dimensionally, the GLC measures slightly longer at 4792 mm, compared to the X3’s longest option at 4755 mm. The width is almost identical, with the X3 at 1891 mm, offering excellent balance and stability.
As premium SUVs, both vehicles come with luxurious finishes and cutting-edge infotainment systems. However, for cargo space, the Mercedes GLC takes a slight lead with a maximum trunk capacity of 620 liters, in contrast to the X3’s 570 liters maximum in its largest configuration, making it slightly more practical for hauling goods.
Choosing between the BMW X3 and the Mercedes GLC comes down to your driving priorities. The BMW X3 is ideal for those seeking a broader range of performance options, including a super sporty variant. The Mercedes GLC, however, shines with its unmatched hybrid efficiency and additional cargo room.
Both SUVs offer superb craftsmanship, luxurious interiors, and state-of-the-art technology, ensuring that whichever you choose provides not just transportation but a compelling driving experience.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Mercedes GLC has a minimal advantage in terms of price – it starts at 50300 £, while the BMW X3 costs 51300 £. That’s a price difference of around 930 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLC manages with 1.60 L and is therefore clearly more efficient than the BMW X3 with 2.80 L. The difference is about 1.20 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs convincingly better – achieving up to 714 km, about 626 km more than the BMW X3.
Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.
When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLC has a clearly edge – offering 680 HP compared to 398 HP. That’s roughly 282 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is evident quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the BMW X3 takes 4.60 s. That’s about 1.10 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs minimal better – reaching 275 km/h, while the BMW X3 tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLC pulls distinct stronger with 1020 Nm compared to 670 Nm. That’s about 350 Nm difference.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Mercedes GLC is barely noticeable lighter – 1910 kg compared to 1930 kg. The difference is around 20 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers hardly perceptible more room – 620 L compared to 570 L. That’s a difference of about 50 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLC performs barely noticeable better – up to 1740 L, which is about 40 L more than the BMW X3.
When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLC slight takes the win – 600 kg compared to 570 kg. That’s a difference of about 30 kg.
The Mercedes GLC proves to be leaves the rival little chance and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Mercedes GLC is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
The BMW X3 mixes Bavarian poise with everyday practicality, delivering a composed ride and a cabin that feels both premium and lived-in. It’s the sort of SUV that lets you enjoy sporty handling without sacrificing family-friendly space, so you get fun and sense in one neat package.
details
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
@ BMW Group Press
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
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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@ BMW Group Press
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@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
51300 - 72400 £
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Price
50300 - 126600 £
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Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 7.7 L
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Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh
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Electric Range
88 km
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Electric Range
12 - 714 km
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Battery Capacity
19.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
94 kWh
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co2
64 - 175 g/km
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co2
0 - 225 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
50 - 65 L
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Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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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
1930 - 2140 kg
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Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
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Trunk capacity
460 - 570 L
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Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
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Length
4755 mm
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Length
4716 - 4845 mm
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Width
1920 mm
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Width
1890 - 1913 mm
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Height
1660 mm
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Height
1603 - 1647 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1600 - 1700 L
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Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
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Payload
570 kg
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Payload
475 - 600 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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|---|---|
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, 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
Automatic Gearbox
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Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
197 - 398 HP
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Power HP
186 - 680 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.6 - 7.8 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
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Max Speed
215 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
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Torque
330 - 670 Nm
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Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Power kW
145 - 293 kW
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Power kW
137 - 500 kW
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Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
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Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2024 - 2025
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Model Year
2025 - 2026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, E, B
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CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B, A
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Brand
BMW
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Brand
Mercedes-Benz
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The BMW X3 is offered with 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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