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Volvo XC90 vs Mercedes GLC comparison

Compare performance (455 HP vs 680 HP), boot space and price (69,800 £ vs 50,300 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Volvo XC90 or Mercedes GLC?

Volvo XC90 vs Mercedes GLC: Key differences

Volvo XC90

5 (1 Reviews)
rate

Mercedes GLC

4.4 (11 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly cheaper
  • noticeably more power
  • significantly more efficient
  • clearly more electric range
  • clearly quicker 0–100 km/h
  • only slightly lighter
  • considerably more trunk space

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

XC90

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.

GLC

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.

XC90

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.

GLC

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.

XC90

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.

GLC

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.

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Volvo XC90
VS
In the CX-80 vs XC90 duel, Mazda punches above its class with an elegant, driver-focused cabin and taut handling that makes this three-row SUV feel more like a sporty wagon, while Volvo’s XC90 leans into Scandinavian calm — airy space, top-tier safety kit and a plush ride. Choose the Mazda if you …
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Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

XC90

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Mercedes GLC is clearly cheaper – starting at 50,300 £ , while the Volvo XC90 costs 69,800 £ . That’s a price difference of around 19,435 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Mercedes GLC uses 1.6 L/100km and is significantly more efficient than the Volvo XC90 with 3.5 L/100km. The difference is about 1.9 L/100km.

As for electric range, the Mercedes GLC offers clearly more range – reaching up to 714 km, about 643 km more than the Volvo XC90.

GLC

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 offers noticeably more power – delivering 680 HP compared to 455 HP. That’s roughly 225 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLC is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.5 s, while the Volvo XC90 takes 5.4 s. That’s about 1.9 s quicker.

Looking at top speed, the Mercedes GLC is noticeably faster – 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: the Mercedes GLC delivers noticeably more torque with 1,020 Nm compared to 709 Nm. That’s about 311 Nm more.

XC90

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 more seats – 7 vs 5.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLC is only slightly lighter – 1,910 kg compared to 2,080 kg. The difference is around 170 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLC offers considerably more boot space – 620 L compared to 302 L. That’s a difference of about 318 L.

For maximum load capacity, the Volvo XC90 offers barely more capacity – up to 1,856 L, about 116 L more than the Mercedes GLC.

When it comes to payload, the Volvo XC90 carries a bit more – 710 kg compared to 600 kg. That’s a difference of about 110 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLC is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £50,300
GLC

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 - 9.7 L/100km
  • Consumption kWh/100km : 14.9 - 16.6 kWh/100km
  • Electric Range : 12 - 714 km
details
Volvo XC90
Mercedes GLC

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Volvo XC90

The Volvo XC90 is a serene Scandinavian SUV that mixes minimalist luxury with a composed, confidence-inspiring presence — ideal for buyers who want family practicality without sacrificing style. Inside it serves up a calm, well-crafted cabin and user-friendly tech that keeps long journeys pleasant and tantrums to a minimum, making the XC90 a smart, stylish pick for sensible drivers.

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Reviews Volvo XC90

5 (1 Reviews)
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Borstel
11 Nov 2025, 12:59:12

I drive both cars. The XC90’s boot is — contrary to the figures posted here — noticeably larger than the GLC’s when carrying five people. Overall the XC90 is clearly the more comfortable and, above all, the more stable — and therefore the safer — car.

Mercedes GLC

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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Reviews Mercedes GLC

4.4 (11 Reviews)
rate
Marek
2 Jan 2026, 18:32:30

There’s something about a Mercedes — you have to take it for a spin to feel it and understand why it’s special.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Commuter (short/medium distance)
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

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Volvo XC90
Mercedes GLC

Costs and Consumption
Price
69,800 - 84,600 £
Price
50,300 - 126,600 £
Consumption L/100km
3.5 - 8.5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
1.6 - 9.7 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
14.9 - 16.6 kWh/100km
Electric Range
71 km
Electric Range
12 - 714 km
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
94 kWh
co2
79 - 191 g/km
co2
0 - 221 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
71 L
Fuel tank capacity
62 - 65 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
7
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
2,080 - 2,297 kg
Curb weight
1,910 - 2,535 kg
Trunk capacity
262 - 302 L
Trunk capacity
390 - 620 L
Length
4,953 mm
Length
4,716 - 4,845 mm
Width
1,923 mm
Width
1,890 - 1,913 mm
Height
1,771 mm
Height
1,603 - 1,644 mm
Max trunk capacity
1,856 L
Max trunk capacity
1,490 - 1,740 L
Payload
653 - 710 kg
Payload
475 - 600 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol 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
250 - 455 HP
Power HP
186 - 680 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
5.4 - 7.7 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 9 s
Max Speed
180 km/h
Max Speed
210 - 275 km/h
Torque
360 - 709 Nm
Torque
320 - 1,020 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Power kW
184 - 335 kW
Power kW
137 - 500 kW
Engine capacity
1,969 cm3
Engine capacity
1,991 - 2,989 cm3

General
Model Year
2,024 - 2,025
Model Year
2,025 - 2,026
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
F, G, D, B, E, A
Brand
Volvo
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
What drive types are available for the Volvo XC90?

The Volvo XC90 is offered with All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.