2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2025 Acura MDX

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC retained much of its predecessor's design, with subtle updates like new taillights and repositioned door handles. The headlights were narrower and more aggressive, while the taillights were connected by a trim piece across the back. The trunk design was updated, and chrome usage was reduced. The GLC Coupe maintained its distinctive sloping profile, resembling an inflated hatchback. The interior was luxurious, featuring two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash. The GLC was gadget-heavy, with numerous screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, making it a class leader in interior opulence.

In contrast, the 2025 Acura MDX received minor exterior updates, including a new grille, revised bumper, and darkened lights, enhancing its sporty appearance. The interior saw significant changes with a new touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous touchpad interface. The MDX Advance and A-Spec Advance trims featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The cabin was quieter due to added sound insulation, and the MDX offered logical controls and ample storage. The new A-Spec Advance trim combined luxury with a sporty look, with a price nearing $70,000.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's 385 hp V6. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, with a plug-in hybrid AMG GLC 63 expected in 2025. The base GLC 300 offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 300 was rear-wheel-drive, with an optional 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLC 43 had standard AWD. Both used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 featuring the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed for faster shifts. The performance suspension provided improved handling but a firmer ride.

The 2025 Acura MDX offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine in the Type S, producing 355 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-liter V6, delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque. The MDX featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and optional SH-AWD. The MDX provided a smooth ride with Comfort, Normal, Sport, Snow, and Individual driving modes. The A-Spec Advance trim achieved 21 mpg combined, but our test vehicle averaged 18.4 mpg. The MDX handled well on twisty roads, with smooth body motions and reliable braking.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. 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 rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe offered 17.6 cubic feet, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The second row could be configured as a bench or individual seats, with a pass-through to the third row. The third row was best for children due to limited space. The MDX offered 16.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 39.1 cubic feet with it folded, and 71.4 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering voice command functionality. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with navigation and a Burmester sound system on higher trims. The Pinnacle trim added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a 12.3-inch touchscreen with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with AcuraLink connected services and an AT&T 4G LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The MDX featured Bang & Olufsen audio systems, with up to 31 speakers on the Type S Advance. The infotainment system was intuitive, with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 10.5-inch head-up display.

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, blind-spot assist, and Pre-Safe. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.

The 2025 Acura MDX featured AcuraWatch with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. AcuraWatch 360, exclusive to the Type S Advance, added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX retained its five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with no IIHS rating for 2025.