Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: BMW X5 or Mercedes GLC?
The luxury SUV market has been witnessing an exciting rivalry between two German giants: the BMW X5 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC. Both vehicles blend performance, luxury, and technology, yet each has its distinct characteristics. Let's dive into a detailed comparison, considering their technical prowess and the innovative features they bring to the table.
The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC embody their brand's aesthetic philosophies, offering stylish and commanding road presences. The BMW X5 is slightly longer at 4948 mm compared to the GLC's maximum length of 4792 mm, providing an imposing stance complemented by its wider and taller frame. The X5's dimensions (Width: 2015 mm, Height: 1765 mm) offer a spacious cabin setting the stage for luxury.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC, on the other hand, stands as a more agile offering. Despite its smaller size (Width: 1890 mm, Height: 1647 mm), the GLC doesn't compromise interior comfort, providing a practical luxury option without losing its sporty character.
When it comes to engine offerings, both SUVs present a range of powertrains that cater to various preferences. The BMW X5 boasts a powerful lineup, featuring engines ranging from 298 HP to 625 HP. Its standout engine is the 4.4-liter V8, producing an exhilarating 625 HP, maxing out at a speed of 250 km/h and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC offers impressive versatility with its range of petrol and diesel MHEVs and plug-in hybrids, stretching from 227 HP to a notable 680 HP for the hybrid variant. The GLC 63 S E Performance model epitomizes peak power with supercar-like acceleration of 0-100 km/h in merely 3.5 seconds.
On the efficiency frontier, the Mercedes-Benz GLC excels, particularly with its plug-in hybrid models offering an electric range of up to 130 km. This, combined with a consumption as low as 0.4 L/100km, truly shines in its eco-efficiency.
The BMW X5's plug-in hybrid powertrain also offers impressive figures, with an electric range of 97 km and a fuel consumption of 0.9 L/100km, making it a strong contender in the eco-friendly stakes.
Both SUVs are designed to comfortably seat five passengers, serving up refined interiors that reflect their luxury positioning. The X5 offers a slightly larger trunk capacity at 650 liters, accommodating more luggage which is perfect for long hauls and family trips.
The GLC, however, compensates with a focus on innovative interior technology, offering dynamic infotainment systems alongside comfort. Despite a 620-liter trunk capacity, the GLC's design keeps it flexible for various storage needs.
Choosing between the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLC comes down to personal preference and needs. The X5 delivers a powerful performance with undeniable robustness and luxurious space, while the GLC shines with its refined technology and impressive fuel efficiency.
Whether you prefer the refined power and space of the BMW X5 or the cutting-edge efficiency and agility of the Mercedes-Benz GLC, both SUVs set benchmarks in the luxury automotive landscape. The choice ultimately depends on whether your priority leans towards spirited driving dynamics or innovative efficiency and technology.
Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.
Mercedes GLC has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 50300 £, while the BMW X5 costs 77100 £. That’s a price difference of around 26730 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLC manages with 1.60 L and is therefore decisively more efficient than the BMW X5 with 3 L. The difference is about 1.40 L per 100 km.
As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs decisively better – achieving up to 714 km, about 609 km more than the BMW X5.
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 minimal edge – offering 680 HP compared to 625 HP. That’s roughly 55 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is a bit quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the BMW X5 takes 3.90 s. That’s about 0.40 s faster.
In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs hardly perceptible better – reaching 275 km/h, while the BMW X5 tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 25 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLC pulls evident stronger with 1020 Nm compared to 750 Nm. That’s about 270 Nm difference.
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, Mercedes GLC is slightly lighter – 1910 kg compared to 2240 kg. The difference is around 330 kg.
In terms of boot space, the BMW X5 offers slight more room – 650 L compared to 620 L. That’s a difference of about 30 L.
In maximum load capacity, the BMW X5 performs barely noticeable better – up to 1870 L, which is about 130 L more than the Mercedes GLC.
When it comes to payload, BMW X5 somewhat takes the win – 705 kg compared to 600 kg. That’s a difference of about 105 kg.
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.
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
The BMW X5 blends athletic handling with a roomy, premium interior, feeling equally at home on twisty country roads and the school-run car park. Its executive-lounge cabin and confident road presence make it a tempting choice for buyers who want comfort, capability and just a little bit of bragging rights.
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@ 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.
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@ 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
77100 - 143500 £
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Price
50300 - 126600 £
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Consumption L/100km
3 - 12.8 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
105 km
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Electric Range
12 - 714 km
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Battery Capacity
25.70 kWh
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Battery Capacity
94 kWh
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co2
68 - 289 g/km
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co2
0 - 225 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
69 - 83 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
2240 - 2495 kg
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Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
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Trunk capacity
500 - 650 L
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Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
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Length
4935 - 4948 mm
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Length
4716 - 4845 mm
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Width
2004 - 2015 mm
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Width
1890 - 1913 mm
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Height
1755 - 1765 mm
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Height
1603 - 1647 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1720 - 1870 L
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Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
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Payload
565 - 705 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
298 - 625 HP
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Power HP
186 - 680 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 6.1 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
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Max Speed
233 - 250 km/h
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Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
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Torque
540 - 750 Nm
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Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
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Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
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Power kW
219 - 460 kW
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Power kW
137 - 500 kW
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Engine capacity
2993 - 4395 cm3
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Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2025 - 2026
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CO2 Efficiency Class
G, 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 X5 is available as 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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