2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented a blend of new and familiar elements. While the GLC 300 was redesigned, the Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected for the 2024 model year. The changes in the GLC 300 were subtle, with the most noticeable being the narrower taillights, making it easy to mistake for the first-generation model from 2016. Despite this, the GLC maintained its classy and timeless design, which had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production. The interior saw a more significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, aligning with newer Mercedes models. The materials and construction quality remained excellent, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to rivals like the BMW X3 and Audi Q5.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia shared its platform and several design cues with the Tundra pickup, including hexagonal grilles and muscular stances. The exterior appearance varied significantly with color choices, with the Capstone model in Celestial Silver appearing somewhat dated, while the Solar Octane orange with black accents gave it a more rugged look. Inside, the Sequoia closely resembled the Tundra and other contemporary Toyota vehicles, with a blocky, geometric dash layout and physical controls for volume and climate. The Capstone trim featured semi-aniline leather upholstery, while other trims offered a range of seating materials. The Sequoia provided a power-tilt and -slide moonroof or an upgraded panoramic version, enhancing the interior experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was initially available in the GLC 300 trim, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with standard rear-wheel drive and optional 4Matic all-wheel drive. The GLC 300 accelerated smoothly, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which was average for its class. The brake pedal was slightly soft, but effective, and the suspension favored comfort over sporty handling, providing a smooth ride. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, matching the GLC 300's performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, achieving 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia was exclusively offered in a hybrid format, utilizing Toyota’s iForce MAX hybrid powertrain with a twin-turbo V6 engine and an electric motor. This setup delivered 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than its V8 predecessor. The Sequoia's fuel economy improved to 20 mpg combined with 4WD. The TRD Pro trim was available only with 4WD, featuring a part-time system with selectable modes and a skid plate. Other trims offered 4WD as an option. The 10-speed automatic transmission operated smoothly, and the on-road handling was adequate. The TRD Off-Road package added adventure-ready features like all-terrain tires and an off-road suspension. The Sequoia's towing capacity increased to 9,520 pounds, with several towing-related upgrades available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, with real leather available for a smoother feel. Storage options included a large center console bin with a wireless charging pad, cupholders, and well-sized door pockets. The GLC provided plenty of space for front passengers, while rear seats accommodated average adults, though headroom was slightly limited. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, smaller than rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and lowered rear headroom.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia featured automatic power-deploying running boards on the Capstone and Platinum trims, aiding entry for shorter individuals. The Sequoia offered a maximum of 86.9 cubic feet of cargo space with both rear rows folded. Behind the second row, it provided 49 cubic feet, and behind the third row, 11.5 to 22.3 cubic feet, depending on seat position. The third-row seats folded at the push of a button but did not create a flat load floor due to the hybrid powertrain's battery pack. Headroom was reduced, and legroom varied across rows, with the Sequoia trailing some rivals in space. Second-row captain’s chairs were available on higher trims, offering width but lacking bolstering.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a new interior layout with an 11.9-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system provided excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. The system lacked physical buttons for audio and climate controls, making adjustments more distracting. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia's Capstone trim was equipped with numerous features, including standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The SR5 trim had an 8-inch touchscreen, while other trims featured a 14-inch screen. The Toyota Audio Multimedia system prioritized functionality over flashiness. The driver-information display was a full-color 12.3-inch unit, and the Panoramic View monitor was standard. A 10-inch color head-up display was available on higher trims, and a 14-speaker JBL Premium Audio system was standard on select trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but the previous model received high scores. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control and other features. The Coupe offered additional standard features like cross-traffic alerts.

The 2024 Toyota Sequoia included the Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 suite as standard, featuring a pre-collision system, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring with Trailer Merge Warning was also standard. The Tow Technology Package added a digital rearview mirror and trailer backup guide. The Sequoia had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but the similar Tundra received a Top Safety Pick+ designation.