@ BMW Group Press
@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
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BMW X5 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: BMW X5 or Mercedes GLC?

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Dynamic Duo: BMW X5 vs. Mercedes-Benz 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.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Design and Dimensions

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.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Engine Performance and Efficiency

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.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Fuel Efficiency

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.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Interior Space and Comfort

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.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Conclusion

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.

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

X5 @ BMW Group Press

Costs and Efficiency:

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.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

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 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.

X5 @ BMW Group Press

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, 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.

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.

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

BMW X5

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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Mercedes GLC

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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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BMW X5
Mercedes GLC
X5 @ BMW Group Press
GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
77100 - 143500 £
Price
50300 - 126600 £
Consumption L/100km
3 - 12.8 L
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh
Electric Range
105 km
Electric Range
12 - 714 km
Battery Capacity
25.70 kWh
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
co2
68 - 289 g/km
co2
0 - 225 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
69 - 83 L
Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
2240 - 2495 kg
Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
Trunk capacity
500 - 650 L
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Length
4935 - 4948 mm
Length
4716 - 4845 mm
Width
2004 - 2015 mm
Width
1890 - 1913 mm
Height
1755 - 1765 mm
Height
1603 - 1647 mm
Max trunk capacity
1720 - 1870 L
Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
Payload
565 - 705 kg
Payload
475 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Diesel MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
298 - 625 HP
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 6.1 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Max Speed
233 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
Torque
540 - 750 Nm
Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
Number of Cylinders
6 - 8
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Power kW
219 - 460 kW
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Engine capacity
2993 - 4395 cm3
Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025 - 2026
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B, A
Brand
BMW
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Is the BMW X5 offered with different drivetrains?

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.