2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2025 Mazda CX-5

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, maintaining a familiar look to keep its loyal fanbase content. Designers made subtle changes, such as repositioning door handles and narrowing the headlights for a more menacing appearance. The taillights were updated and connected by a trim piece, while the trunk and rear bumper received a sleeker design with less chrome. The GLC Coupe retained its distinctive fastback roof, and the grille differentiated AMG models with vertical bars reminiscent of a pinstriped uniform. Inside, the GLC boasted a luxurious interior with two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash, complemented by an array of screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, making it a gadget-heavy yet sumptuous space.

In contrast, the 2025 Mazda CX-5 stood out with its graceful curves, offering a timeless design that rivaled entry-level luxury SUVs. Despite not being redesigned since 2017, its elegant styling remained impressive. The interior featured high-quality materials and a blend of analog and digital elements, favoring usability over flashy tech. Physical buttons and knobs provided easy access to controls, while soft-touch materials added a touch of luxury. Though it lacked the high-tech wow factor, the CX-5's interior was practical and user-friendly, appealing to those who preferred a more traditional setup.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's V6. A 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced performance, while the base GLC 300 offered 255 hp. The GLC 300 came with 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 AMG model featuring a multi-clutch system for faster shifts. The performance suspension provided improved handling but resulted in a firmer ride, making it less ideal for daily commuting.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 offered two engine choices: a 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 187 hp and a turbocharged version with 256 hp. Both engines paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The turbo model accelerated quickly, making it one of the faster options in its class. The CX-5 excelled in handling, with minimal body roll and a sporty feel, providing confidence in evasive maneuvers. While the ride was slightly firm, it remained comfortable for most passengers, and the quiet cabin reduced fatigue on long journeys.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. Standard features included heated front seats with memory functions, with optional ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with folded seats. The Coupe variant had less space, with 17.6 cubic feet, but its hatchback-like design allowed for 52.6 cubic feet when seats were down.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5's interior offered decent headroom but less rear legroom compared to some rivals. It provided 30.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 58.1 cubic feet with folded seats. While not the most spacious, the cargo area was practical, with easy-to-use latches for folding seats. The front featured moderate storage options, and midlevel trims added a wireless charging pad.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with the MBUX infotainment system, offering voice command functionality and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims added navigation, a Burmester sound system, and advanced features like a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. Optional tech included an Advanced USB package.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment display controlled via a center console dial. The system was user-friendly, with logical menus and easy operation. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, with wireless capability in higher trims. The base trim had a four-speaker audio system, while the top model featured a 10-speaker Bose system. A head-up display was standard on higher trims.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with standard safety features like active brake assist and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, available through a Driver Assistance Package.

The 2025 Mazda CX-5 received five stars from the NHTSA, with standard safety features like forward-collision warning and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, and traffic jam assist. The top trim included a driver attention monitor and rear automatic braking.