2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned and available in four model series, offered a range of trims from base to Luxury, with prices starting at $37,950. The NX 350, particularly in F Sport and Luxury trims, stood out with its distinctive Lexus design, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on decluttering, though some controls integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. Despite this, the NX maintained high-quality materials, with the F Sport trim adding sporty elements like unique instrumentation and alloy pedals.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, though redesigned, retained a familiar look with subtle updates like narrower taillights. Its interior saw a significant upgrade, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and high-quality materials. The GLC's design was more traditional, focusing on luxury rather than sportiness. The Coupe models, unchanged from the previous year, offered a distinct coupe-like roofline. Overall, the GLC maintained a classic appeal, though some might have desired more personality in its design.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions, with the NX 350h hybrid producing 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid delivering 302 horsepower. The NX 350, with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine, generated 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience. It featured an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The F Sport trim added adaptive suspension and sportier driving modes, enhancing its dynamic performance. However, the NX was not suited for off-road adventures due to limited ground clearance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a mild-hybrid system, produced 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It offered a smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The GLC prioritized comfort with its suspension tuning, providing a quieter ride compared to rivals. The Coupe variant retained its older engine, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful V6 engine for sportier performance. Overall, the GLC delivered a balanced ride, though it lacked the liveliness of some competitors.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior space, though it felt cozy from the driver’s seat. It offered comfortable seating with available heated and ventilated options. Rear passengers enjoyed ample space and conveniences like air vents and USB ports. The NX boasted a 14% increase in cargo space, offering 22.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 46.9 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured adjustable front seats with synthetic leather upholstery, providing long-distance comfort. It offered ample storage, though the piano black trim attracted dust. The GLC provided generous front space, while rear headroom was slightly limited. Cargo capacity was 21.9 cubic feet, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The Coupe’s sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 17.6 cubic feet and affected rear headroom.

The 2022 Lexus NX made significant strides in technology with the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, featuring large touchscreens and natural voice recognition. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included a 10-speaker sound system, with an optional 17-speaker Mark Levinson system. The NX also featured cloud-based services, digital key capability, and a comprehensive head-up display, though the touchscreen was prone to fingerprints and reflections.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC introduced a new interior layout with an 11.9-inch touchscreen. While the graphics were sharp, the screen’s lower placement made it distracting. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, though it interrupted audio. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester sound system. The lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging, but the system performed well overall.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering advanced driver assistance features like Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. It included standard blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic warning, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional features like adaptive lighting and semi-autonomous parking assist were available with higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been rated by safety organizations, but it was expected to perform well based on Mercedes' reputation. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Coupe variant offered similar safety features with additional cross-traffic alerts.