2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Genesis GV70

The 2022 Genesis GV70 stood out with its distinctive styling, a hallmark of Korean automotive design. It diverged from the rest of the Genesis lineup, featuring the brand's signature two-line lighting that created an illusion of a contiguous circle around the vehicle. The GV70's styling was unique, with a shoulder line and accent lines that set it apart from other Genesis models. The Sport and Sport Plus grades added a sportier touch with dark chrome finishes and a cross-hatched matrix pattern on the exterior, including the wheels. Customers could choose from over 100 colour combinations, with exclusive options for the Sport grades. Inside, the GV70's cabin featured an elliptical theme inspired by airplane wings, with premium materials and unique upholstery configurations.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a more traditional luxury aesthetic. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing a platform with the C-Class sedan, but its appearance was similar to the first-generation GLC. The most noticeable change was the narrower taillights. The GLC's design was classy and timeless, though it lacked the personality to set it apart from its predecessor. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The GLC's cockpit design was simpler and cleaner compared to rivals, with excellent materials and solid construction. The returning GLC Coupe models retained their coupe-like roofline and first-generation interior, offering some usability advantages over the newer sibling.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 offered two engine options, with the 3.5-litre twin-turbocharged V6 being the more powerful choice, producing 375 horsepower and 391 lb-ft of torque. This engine positioned the GV70 against mid-level performance competitors like the BMW X3 M40i and Mercedes-AMG GLC 43. The GV70's power figures were higher than several German counterparts, and its fuel consumption was estimated at 11.6 L/100 km combined. The GV70 featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, with a rear axle priority. The Sport Plus grade included an electronic limited-slip differential for enhanced torque distribution. The GV70 offered various drive modes, including Sport+ for aggressive performance, and an electronically controlled suspension system for a balanced ride.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 300 featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive in Canada. Acceleration was smooth, with an estimated 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds. The GLC's suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling, providing a smoother ride than rivals. The returning GLC Coupe models retained their older four-cylinder turbo engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a sportier option with a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6, producing 385 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG model delivered a firmer ride and louder engine for sport-minded drivers.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 prioritized driver-focused design, with a tall centre console and intuitive controls within easy reach. The GV70 featured a single-pane climate control panel with haptic feedback, and standard heated front seats and steering wheel. Ventilated front seats and heated rear seats were available on higher grades. The rear passenger could adjust the front passenger seat for legroom, and a panoramic sunroof added natural light. Cargo volume was generous, with 819 litres behind the second row and 1,610 litres with seats folded. The GV70's ergonomics and functionality were above average, though second-row storage was limited.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment and synthetic leather upholstery. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard, along with a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC provided adequate storage with a large centre console bin, cupholders, and door pockets. The rear seats accommodated average adults, though headroom was limited for taller occupants. The GLC's cargo area held 620 litres, smaller than some rivals, but sufficient for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and affected rear headroom.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 impressed with its technology offerings, featuring a 14.5-inch high-definition LCD infotainment screen with high-resolution graphics. The system allowed for a split-screen layout and included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The premium Sport Plus grade featured a 3D digital instrument cluster and a fingerprint recognition system for keyless start. A nine-speaker audio system was standard, with an 18-speaker Lexicon surround sound system available on top grades.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio playback. The GLC included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system. The older layout and system were available with the Coupe body style.

The 2022 Genesis GV70 came equipped with ten standard safety features, including blind spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and forward collision avoidance. A new rear occupant alert system used radar to detect movement in the second row. The Genesis Highway Driving Assist system provided lane centring and automatic lane changing functions. Safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300's crash-test results were pending, but the previous GLC received top scores from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and more. The Coupe included cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.