@ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
@ Volvo Cars
VS

Mercedes GLC vs Volvo XC90 – Differences & prices compared

Compare performance, boot capacity, efficiency and price at a glance.
Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLC or Volvo XC90?

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

The Battle of the Luxury SUVs: Mercedes GLC vs. Volvo XC90

In the ever-evolving world of luxury SUVs, two models consistently capture the attention of both critics and consumers alike: the Mercedes GLC and the Volvo XC90. Each brings its flavor of elegance, power, and innovation to the table, making it a tough choice for potential buyers. Let's delve into the technical specifications and unique innovations that these two vehicles boast, enabling a closer look at their distinctive offerings.

XC90 @ Volvo Cars

Power and Performance

The Mercedes GLC offers an extensive range of engine options, including petrol mild hybrid (MHEV), diesel MHEV, and plug-in hybrid variants. With horsepower options ranging from 186 HP to an impressive 680 HP, the GLC ensures that there's a powertrain to suit diverse driving preferences. Notably, it can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.5 seconds, with a top speed reaching up to 275 km/h.

On the other hand, the Volvo XC90 leans towards a streamlined engine selection, available in petrol MHEV and plug-in hybrid formats. With power outputs of 250 HP and 455 HP, the XC90 is no slouch, and its rapid acceleration of 5.4 seconds for 0-100 km/h should satisfy those with a need for speed. However, it caps its speed at 180 km/h, adhering to Volvo's safety commitment.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Fuel Efficiency and Environment

Fuel efficiency stands as a significant factor in the SUV buying decision. The GLC demonstrates commendable fuel consumption, especially in its plug-in hybrid variant, which offers an incredibly low consumption rate of just 0.4 L/100 km and an electric range of up to 130 km. The CO2 efficiency class varies across its models, with the best offering a 'B' class rating.

Volvo's XC90, prioritizing eco-friendly options, achieves a consumption rate as low as 1.2 L/100 km in its plug-in hybrid version, with an electric range of 71 km. It distinguishes itself with a solid 'B' CO2 efficiency rating, making it an attractive choice for environmentally conscious consumers.

XC90 @ Volvo Cars

Interior Space and Features

The Mercedes GLC offers seating for five passengers and an ample trunk capacity reaching up to 620 liters. It balances practical dimensions without compromising on roominess or comfort, making it ideal for families and road trips alike.

In contrast, the Volvo XC90 accommodates seven passengers, which may appeal to larger families. However, its trunk capacity ranges from 262 to 302 liters, potentially limiting luggage space. Volvo compensates for this with its emphasis on luxury and advanced safety features, creating a comfortable and secure cabin environment.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Innovative Technologies and Safety

Mercedes prides itself on innovative technologies in the GLC, integrating its hallmark features such as the MBUX infotainment system, known for intuitive controls and stunning visuals. The cockpit is further enhanced by advanced driver-assistance systems, designed to offer a serene and secure driving experience.

Meanwhile, Volvo maintains its reputation for safety with the XC90, featuring state-of-the-art safety assists like Pilot Assist and City Safety functions that prevent collisions with both vehicles and pedestrians. The XC90's infotainment system seamlessly blends modern tech with user-friendly controls, ensuring a luxurious experience on the road.

XC90 @ Volvo Cars

Conclusion: A Choice of Preferences

The decision between the Mercedes GLC and the Volvo XC90 ultimately boils down to personal preference. The GLC impresses with its broad engine range and sporty performance figures, catering to those who favor dynamic driving and cutting-edge technology. Conversely, the XC90 offers a harmonious mix of eco-friendliness, safety, and family-oriented design, making it a sensible choice for those prioritizing passenger capacity and environmental impact. With each SUV leading its domain, the choice is yours to make.

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

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Costs and Efficiency:

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

Mercedes GLC has a noticeable advantage in terms of price – it starts at 50300 £, while the Volvo XC90 costs 69800 £. That’s a price difference of around 19435 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLC manages with 1.60 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the Volvo XC90 with 3.50 L. The difference is about 1.90 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes GLC performs convincingly better – achieving up to 128 km, about 57 km more than the Volvo XC90.

XC90 @ Volvo Cars

Engine and Performance:

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 distinct edge – offering 680 HP compared to 455 HP. That’s roughly 225 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the Volvo XC90 takes 5.40 s. That’s about 1.90 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLC performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 275 km/h, while the Volvo XC90 tops out at 180 km/h. The difference is around 95 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLC pulls distinct stronger with 1020 Nm compared to 709 Nm. That’s about 311 Nm difference.

GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Volvo XC90 offers clearly perceptible more seating capacity – 7 vs 5.

In curb weight, Mercedes GLC is slight lighter – 1910 kg compared to 2080 kg. The difference is around 170 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers convincingly more room – 620 L compared to 302 L. That’s a difference of about 318 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Volvo XC90 performs barely noticeable better – up to 1856 L, which is about 176 L more than the Mercedes GLC.

When it comes to payload, Volvo XC90 slightly takes the win – 710 kg compared to 600 kg. That’s a difference of about 110 kg.

Who wins the race?

The Mercedes GLC proves to be is largely superior 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
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 186 - 680 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 1.6 - 9.9 L
  • Electric Range : 12 - 128 km

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

Volvo XC90

5 (1)
rate

The Volvo XC90 stands out with its elegant Scandinavian design, seamlessly blending luxury with versatility. Inside, it offers a spacious and meticulously crafted interior, showcasing high-quality materials and advanced technology. The vehicle provides a comfortable and smooth driving experience, making it a popular choice for families and long journeys.

details
Mercedes GLC
Volvo XC90
GLC @ Mercedes-Benz Group Media
XC90 @ Volvo Cars

Costs and Consumption

Price
50300 - 126600 £
Price
69800 - 84600 £
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.9 L
Consumption L/100km
3.5 - 8.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
12 - 128 km
Electric Range
71 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
14.70 kWh
co2
41 - 225 g/km
co2
79 - 191 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
49 - 65 L
Fuel tank capacity
71 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
7
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1910 - 2400 kg
Curb weight
2080 - 2297 kg
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Trunk capacity
262 - 302 L
Length
4716 - 4792 mm
Length
4953 mm
Width
1890 mm
Width
1923 mm
Height
1603 - 1647 mm
Height
1771 mm
Max trunk capacity
1335 - 1680 L
Max trunk capacity
1816 - 1856 L
Payload
475 - 600 kg
Payload
653 - 710 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Power HP
250 - 455 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 7.7 s
Max Speed
208 - 275 km/h
Max Speed
180 km/h
Torque
320 - 1020 Nm
Torque
360 - 709 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Power kW
184 - 335 kW
Engine capacity
1991 - 2989 cm3
Engine capacity
1969 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
Volvo
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.