2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, yet it retained a familiar aesthetic to keep its loyal fanbase content. The exterior changes were subtle, with new taillights and repositioned door handles, while the headlights became narrower and more aggressive. The rear end saw a more significant update with a trim piece connecting the taillights and a redesigned bumper. The GLC Coupe maintained its distinctive fastback roof, giving it a sporty profile. Inside, the GLC's interior was luxurious, featuring two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The cabin was filled with screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, offering a gadget-heavy experience typical of Mercedes.

In contrast, the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox received a modern makeover, aligning it with larger Chevrolet models like the Traverse and Suburban. The redesign included a flat roof, upright grille, and distinct styling elements for each trim. The Equinox LT offered chrome or a Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment, while the RS trim featured sportier accents like black mirrors and red emblems. The new ACTIV trim emphasized adventure with dark chrome and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Equinox's cabin was updated with a new infotainment screen and improved interior materials. The RS and ACTIV trims offered unique interior themes, with the ACTIV trim featuring a two-tone black and tan design.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing an impressive 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. The engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing performance. The base GLC 300 offered 255 horsepower, which was respectable but overshadowed by the GLC 43's output. The GLC 300 was available in rear-wheel drive, with an all-wheel-drive option, while the AMG GLC 43 came standard with all-wheel drive. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 featuring a performance-oriented AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed. The GLC 43's performance suspension and four-wheel steering provided a sporty driving experience, though it might not suit those seeking a comfortable commuter vehicle.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox continued with a single engine option: a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied between front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive models, with the latter offering more torque. The Equinox's transmission options included a CVT for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD versions. The eight-speed automatic improved acceleration and reduced noise compared to the previous six-speed. The Equinox's ride was generally quiet and comfortable, though the engine's limitations were noticeable during highway merges. The AWD-equipped Equinox could tow up to 1,500 pounds and featured selectable drive modes for different driving conditions.

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

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox featured standard heated front seats and a heated steering wheel on RS and ACTIV trims. Front seat ventilation was available as part of a package that also included heated rear seats and driver's seat memory. The Equinox's flat roof provided consistent headroom, and the moonroof added light to the rear seats. Cargo space was slightly reduced, with 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A hidden storage compartment added convenience, though overall cargo volume was small for the class.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cockpit centered around an 11.9-inch touchscreen running the MBUX infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with additional features like navigation and a Burmester sound system available on higher trims. The Pinnacle trim added a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. Optional tech included an Advanced USB package with extra ports.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration allowed for flexible infotainment use, though voice control volume was an issue in some test models. The Equinox's tech features included an 11.3-inch touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and wireless charging on higher trims. An upgraded sound system was not available.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for its standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, and blind-spot warning. Optional safety features were available in a Driver Assistance Package, adding adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered a Safety & Technology package with additional features like rear pedestrian alert and traffic-sign recognition. Most safety features were standard, including enhanced automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. Teen Driver Technology allowed parents to set speed and volume limits and receive a driving report card.