@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Toyota Motor Corporation
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Mercedes GLC vs Toyota RAV4 – Which one offers the better deal?

Everyday use, family trips or long-distance drives – here’s where the differences show.
Discover whether Mercedes GLC or Toyota RAV4 fits your lifestyle better.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Comparing the Best: Mercedes GLC vs. Toyota RAV4

The automotive market has seen an explosion in the popularity of SUVs in recent years, and two standout models that have captured consumer interest are the Mercedes GLC and the Toyota RAV4. Both vehicles offer unique features and innovative technologies, making them worthy contenders in the mid-size SUV arena. In this comparison, we will delve into the technical aspects, performance capabilities, and innovations of these two exceptional SUVs.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Power and Performance: A Tale of Two Engines

The Mercedes GLC is available with a range of engine types that include petrol mild-hybrid, diesel mild-hybrid, and plugin hybrid options. These engines produce power ranging from 186 to an exhilarating 680 hp. This variety allows drivers to select the performance level that best suits their lifestyle, whether they’re after efficient commuting or thrilling weekend escapades. Optional all-wheel drive enhances stability and handling, especially in challenging driving conditions.

On the other hand, the Toyota RAV4 features a more straightforward powertrain configuration, primarily offering a full hybrid and plugin hybrid system with power outputs up to 306 hp. While the RAV4 may not boast the same horsepower range as the GLC, its efficiency shines through, particularly in urban settings thanks to its impressive fuel consumption figures, which can dip as low as 1 L/100 km in hybrid mode.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Acceleration and Top-Speed

When it comes to acceleration, the GLC edges out the RAV4. With models capable of sprinting from 0-100 km/h in as little as 4.7 seconds, the GLC is designed for those who prioritize performance. In contrast, the RAV4’s best performance figures, which reach 0-100 km/h in around 6 seconds, provide commendable performance for everyday driving without the overwhelming power often associated with luxury SUVs.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Dimensions and Practicality

Both vehicles comfortably seat five passengers, but their dimensions vary significantly. The Mercedes GLC stretches to a length between 4716 mm to 4792 mm, while the RAV4 measures a more compact 4600 mm, providing a slightly more maneuverable vehicle in tight spaces. In terms of cargo capacity, the GLC offers a versatile trunk space ranging from 390 to 620 liters, ideal for adventure gear and family trips. The RAV4 stands close behind, offering a generous 520 to 580 liters of trunk space.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Fuel Efficiency and Emissions

In terms of fuel efficiency, the Toyota RAV4 clearly outperforms its Mercedes counterpart, with a remarkable 5.6 L/100 km in typical driving conditions and a CO2 emission rating as low as 126 g/km. The hybrid variant especially shines, offering an electric range of up to 75 km, making it perfect for eco-conscious consumers. Conversely, the GLC, while slightly less efficient on paper, offers models that can achieve as low as 5.2 L/100 km in diesel form; however, its petrol options produce more CO2 emissions, ranging from 132 to 170 g/km.

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Interior Technology and Innovations

Both the GLC and RAV4 have invested heavily in technology and driver assistance features. The GLC showcases a high-end infotainment system with an intuitive touchpad and a widescreen display, incorporating navigation, smartphone integration, and voice control features. Advanced safety systems, such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive cruise control, come standard.

Similarly, the RAV4 offers a user-friendly touchscreen interface, equipped with Toyota's Safety Sense suite that includes adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and a pre-collision system. It also integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring connectivity on the go.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Conclusion: Choosing Your Ideal SUV

When it comes down to choosing between the Mercedes GLC and the Toyota RAV4, the decision ultimately hinges on individual priorities. The GLC excels in performance, luxury, and versatility, appealing to those seeking an upscale driving experience. In contrast, the RAV4 is an economically sensible option, delivering excellent fuel efficiency and a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it a great choice for budget-conscious buyers.

Whether you opt for the luxury of the Mercedes GLC or the practicality of the Toyota RAV4, both SUVs present compelling reasons to consider them for your next vehicle purchase.

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

RAV4 @ Toyota Motor Corporation

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Toyota RAV4 has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 35100 £, while the Mercedes GLC costs 50300 £. That’s a price difference of around 15193 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Toyota RAV4 manages with 1 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Mercedes GLC with 1.60 L. The difference is about 0.60 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs significantly better – achieving up to 714 km, about 639 km more than the Toyota RAV4.

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 clearly edge – offering 680 HP compared to 306 HP. That’s roughly 374 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is significantly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Toyota RAV4 takes 6 s. That’s about 2.50 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 275 km/h, while the Toyota RAV4 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 95 km/h.

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, Toyota RAV4 is barely noticeable lighter – 1745 kg compared to 1910 kg. The difference is around 165 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers barely noticeable more room – 620 L compared to 580 L. That’s a difference of about 40 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLC performs minimal better – up to 1740 L, which is about 50 L more than the Toyota RAV4.

Maximum payload is identical – both can carry up to 600 kg.

Who wins the race?

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.

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

Mercedes GLC

4 (2)
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

Toyota RAV4

5 (1)
rate

The Toyota RAV4 feels like a sensible friend on the road, marrying dependable practicality with a dash of SUV personality that keeps daily driving from turning dull. Comfortable and easy to live with, it looks tough without shouting and quietly gets the job done — a sensible pick for buyers who want versatility without drama.

details
73487-rav4prexterior34front-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
73488-rav4prexterior34rear-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
77636-2023rav4ext001-web-lr @ Toyota Motor Corporation
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Costs and Consumption
Price
50300 - 126600 £
Price
35100 - 55700 £
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
Consumption L/100km
1 - 5.6 L
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
12 - 714 km
Electric Range
75 km
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 225 g/km
co2
22 - 128 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L
Fuel tank capacity
55 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1910 - 2535 kg
Curb weight
1745 - 1910 kg
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Trunk capacity
520 - 580 L
Length
4716 - 4845 mm
Length
4600 mm
Width
1890 - 1913 mm
Width
1855 mm
Height
1603 - 1647 mm
Height
1685 mm
Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1740 L
Max trunk capacity
1604 - 1690 L
Payload
475 - 600 kg
Payload
390 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV, Electric
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
CVT
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Power HP
218 - 306 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
6 - 8.4 s
Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Power kW
160 - 225 kW
Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3
Engine capacity
2487 cm3

General
Model Year
2025 - 2026
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, B
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Toyota

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What drive types are available for the Mercedes GLC?

The Mercedes GLC 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.