2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a striking vehicle with a design that commanded attention. Its exterior styling was reminiscent of a long sedan, despite being an SUV, with a long hood and low ground clearance. The design drew inspiration from the classic Seville, featuring a long wheelbase, short tail, and wide track. The vertical light bars on the front, complete with nine LED headlights, created a captivating light show upon unlocking. The grille varied between trims, with the Sport trim offering a more subdued look. The LYRIQ's 22-inch wheels added to its imposing presence, although the effect was diminished with the standard 20-inch wheels. The interior was meticulously crafted, with leather-wrapped seats, polished controls, and a unique steering wheel design. However, the floating center console was a design misstep, offering little practical space.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC followed Mercedes’ design language, presenting a sleek and muscular shape. Its taller cabin and short overhangs suggested multi-terrain capability, especially in non-AMG Line models. The GLC's crisp headlights and detailed tail lights ensured a fresh look for years to come. The optional 20-inch AMG wheels enhanced its athletic form. Inside, the GLC boasted a luxurious interior with contrasting leather door panels and premium materials. The GLC 350e PHEV featured comfortable white leather seats with heating and ventilation options. The haptic steering wheel and climate controls, along with faux carbon fiber and aluminum trim, added to the upscale feel.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was not as sporty as its exterior suggested. It excelled on the interstate, offering a calm and poised ride with ample power. The dual-motor powertrain delivered 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, while the standard single rear motor provided 340 hp and 325 lb-ft. The 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack offered a range of 314 miles with RWD and 307 miles with AWD, though real-world testing showed closer to 260 miles. Charging was efficient, with the battery reaching 80 percent in 30 to 35 minutes. However, the LYRIQ's handling was hindered by its 5,800-pound weight, resulting in significant understeer and uninspiring steering feel. The braking system was strong, but the overall chassis needed improvement.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a choice between the GLC 300 with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine and the GLC 350e PHEV. The GLC 300 produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, with a mild-hybrid system adding extra power. The GLC 350e combined a 23.3-kilowatt-hour battery with an electric motor for a total output of 313 hp and 406 lb-ft. Both models achieved a 0-60 mph time of around 6.2 seconds. The GLC's ride quality was excellent, with solid handling and responsive steering. The regenerative braking system was effective, and the hybrid mode prioritized electric power. The GLC excelled in both city and highway driving, offering a fun and composed experience.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ faced challenges with build quality and functionality. Misaligned rear fenders, a faulty charging port, and a problematic pull-out tray were notable issues. The glovebox was difficult to access while driving, and the floating console lacked practicality. The interior offered generous headroom and legroom, but cargo space was limited to 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 60.8 cubic feet when folded.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided good front-seat space, though the rear seats were tight on leg and headroom. The GLC's cargo space was practical, with 21.9 cubic feet expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The split rear seat and wide dimensions made it easy to stow larger items. The GLC's hybridization offered impressive fuel economy, with the 350e achieving 29.3 mpg in mixed driving conditions.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls for lighting and gauge cluster layouts. The infotainment system ran Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The Super Cruise system provided excellent hands-free driving capabilities, and the 19-speaker AKG stereo delivered high-quality sound.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC utilized the MBUX infotainment system with haptic controls and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. While the system required some adjustment, wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connected seamlessly. The screen resolution was excellent, and the ambient lighting added to the driving experience. The Burmester 3D surround sound system provided top-notch audio quality.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. It came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Cadillac's Safety Alert Seat. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and rear emergency braking.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered standard safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, active parking assistance, and automatic high beams. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, automatic emergency braking, and more. These features worked smoothly, enhancing the driving experience.