2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Lincoln Aviator

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator presented a choice of powertrains, with a standard twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine available in the Standard, Reserve, and Black Label trims, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and either rear-wheel or all-wheel drive. The Grand Touring and Black Label Grand Touring models enhanced this setup with a hybrid system, incorporating a 75-kilowatt electric motor and a 13.6-kilowatt-hour battery, offering standard all-wheel drive. Prices ranged from $53,340 to $89,280, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The top-tier Black Label Grand Touring model, with an optional $750 paint job, reached an MSRP of $91,225. The Aviator was a stylish three-row, midsize SUV, though the wheel design on the Black Label Grand Touring was considered too plain. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials and a panoramic glass sunroof, but some chrome detailing and stitching were seen as less premium. The electronic door latches required careful handling to avoid pinching fingers.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC, a compact crossover, underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar look to appeal to its loyal customer base. The new design included updated taillights, repositioned door handles, and more aggressive headlights. The GLC Coupe retained its distinctive sloping profile, while the SUV version resembled an inflated hatchback. The interior was luxurious, with two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The GLC was equipped with numerous screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, offering a tech-heavy experience. The AMG GLC 43 model featured a sporty grille and performance-oriented design elements, appealing to enthusiasts seeking a dynamic driving experience.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Grand Touring, a plug-in hybrid, offered a powerful drivetrain with 494 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 630 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. Despite its additional 800 pounds from the electric motor and battery, it provided 21 miles of electric range and averaged 23 mpg in hybrid mode. The Aviator featured multiple driving modes, including Pure EV, Preserve EV, Conserve, Normal, and Excite, allowing for efficient power management. During testing, the Aviator achieved 22.3 miles on electric power alone, with a fuel economy equivalent to 163.4 mpg. The twin-turbo V6 provided ample power, though the drivetrain's responsiveness varied. The brake pedal exhibited inconsistent behavior due to regenerative braking. The Aviator's Dynamic Handling Package and adaptive suspension offered a smooth ride, but the SUV lacked excitement in spirited driving.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. The engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The GLC 300, with 255 horsepower, was available in rear-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. The GLC 43 utilized an AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed transmission, offering faster shifts and better torque handling. The performance suspension provided improved handling but resulted in a firmer ride. The GLC's standard four-wheel steering enhanced its sporty nature, appealing to driving enthusiasts.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator prioritized comfort with features like a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated and ventilated seats, and massaging 30-way Perfect Position front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were spacious and supportive, but the third-row seat was cramped and difficult to access. With the third row in use, the Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a maximum of 77.7 cubic feet.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. The front seats offered heat and memory functions, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe offered 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the seats down.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator Black Label Grand Touring was equipped with a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Alexa integration. However, it ran on the outdated Sync 3 software, which struggled with voice recognition. The 28-speaker Revel Ultima 3D audio system provided excellent sound quality. The Aviator also offered wireless charging, a Phone As A Key system, and a comprehensive head-up display. Parking sensors and a surround-view camera system aided in parking, though the Active Parking Assist 2.0 system was not tested.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system, known for its responsive voice command system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation, a Burmester 3D surround sound system, and an off-road display with a "Transparent Hood" feature. The Pinnacle trim offered a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. An optional Advanced USB package increased the number of USB-C ports.

The 2023 Lincoln Aviator offered Co-Pilot360 driver aids, including adaptive cruise control, road-sign recognition, and forward-collision warning. The test vehicle had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-keeping assist. The Aviator received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for the standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, and Pre-Safe. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.