But which one deserves your money? Is the Mercedes GLC better for luxury, comfort and performance, or does the BMW X3 offer a better driving experience, sporty styling and advanced features?
In this detailed Mercedes GLC vs BMW X3 comparison, we will compare exterior design, interior quality, engine performance, mileage, dimensions, boot space, features, safety, ride quality and price in India.
This comparison follows Autocar India's July 28, 2025 road test, which tested the Mercedes GLC 300 4Matic against the BMW X3 xDrive20 M Sport. Updated BMW X3 30 xDrive specifications and pricing are also highlighted where relevant.
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
1. Mercedes GLC vs BMW X3: Key Specifications
Specifications |
Mercedes GLC 300 |
BMW X3 xDrive20 |
|---|---|---|
Engine |
2.0L turbo petrol |
2.0L turbo petrol |
Maximum power |
258 hp |
190 hp |
Maximum torque |
400 Nm |
310 Nm |
Transmission |
9-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
Drivetrain |
AWD |
AWD |
0–100 km/h (tested) |
6.96 seconds |
8.68 seconds |
Length |
4,716 mm |
4,755 mm |
Width |
1,890 mm |
1,920 mm |
Height |
1,640 mm |
1,660 mm |
Wheelbase |
2,888 mm |
2,865 mm |
Boot space |
640 litres |
570 litres |
The GLC offers more power and torque in the original road test, while the BMW X3 is larger in overall dimensions.
2. Exterior Design and Styling
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| BMW X3 |
Mercedes-Benz GLC Exterior
The Mercedes GLC follows an elegant and sophisticated design language. Its front profile features a stylish grille with the Mercedes-Benz logo, attractive LED headlights and a sculpted bonnet.
The curved body lines, stylish alloy wheels and premium rear design give it a luxurious appearance.
Exterior highlights:
Attractive LED headlights.
Signature Mercedes-Benz grille.
Stylish alloy wheels.
Sculpted bonnet.
Premium LED tail lamps.
Elegant SUV silhouette.
BMW X3 Exterior
The BMW X3 follows a more aggressive and sporty design. Its large kidney grille, sharp LED headlights, angular bumpers and upright body give it a powerful road presence.
The M Sport package further improves its sporty appearance.
Exterior highlights:
Large BMW kidney grille.
Sharp LED headlights.
Sporty M Sport bumpers.
Stylish alloy wheels.
Muscular body design.
Sporty rear styling.
Exterior Winner: BMW X3
The BMW X3 wins this round for buyers who prefer a bold, sporty and muscular SUV. The Mercedes GLC is better suited to those who prefer elegant luxury styling.
3. Interior Design and Cabin Quality
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
Mercedes-Benz GLC Interior
The Mercedes GLC offers a luxurious and premium cabin. Its dashboard features an 11.9-inch portrait touchscreen, a digital instrument cluster and premium wood and metal finishes.
The overall interior feels more expensive and sophisticated than the BMW.
Key interior features:
11.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
Digital instrument cluster.
Premium wood and metal finishes.
Heated and ventilated front seats.
Seat kinetics function.
Ambient lighting.
Panoramic sunroof.
Head-up display.
BMW X3 Interior
The BMW X3 offers a modern and sporty cabin with a curved digital display, ambient lighting and a contemporary dashboard.
Its front seats offer better side support and additional adjustment options, making them comfortable for longer journeys.
Key interior features:
Curved digital display.
12.3-inch digital instrument display.
14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Ambient lighting.
Ventilated front seats.
Panoramic glass roof.
Head-up display.
Premium audio system.
Interior Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
The GLC wins because of its premium materials, elegant dashboard design and better overall cabin quality. However, the BMW offers better front-seat support.
4. Dimensions and Space Comparison
Both SUVs offer comfortable seating and generous cabin space, but their dimensions are slightly different.
Dimensions |
Mercedes GLC |
BMW X3 |
|---|---|---|
Length |
4,716 mm |
4,755 mm |
Width |
1,890 mm |
1,920 mm |
Height |
1,640 mm |
1,660 mm |
Wheelbase |
2,888 mm |
2,865 mm |
Boot space |
640 litres |
570 litres |
The BMW X3 is longer, wider and taller than the Mercedes GLC. However, the GLC has a longer wheelbase, which provides better rear knee room.
The Mercedes also offers more boot space, making it a practical choice for family trips.
Space Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
The GLC offers a larger boot and better rear knee room, while the BMW X3 provides a more upright rear seating position and better under-thigh support.
5. Engine, Power and Performance
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
Performance is one of the biggest differences in the original road test.
Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 Performance
The Mercedes GLC 300 comes with a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
Engine specifications:
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo petrol.
Maximum power: 258 hp.
Maximum torque: 400 Nm.
Transmission: 9-speed automatic.
Drivetrain: 4MATIC AWD.
0–100 km/h: 6.96 seconds (tested).
The GLC delivers strong acceleration and smooth power delivery. Its additional power and torque make highway overtaking easier.
BMW X3 xDrive20 Performance
The BMW X3 xDrive20 M Sport features a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
Engine specifications:
Engine: 2.0-litre turbo petrol.
Maximum power: 190 hp.
Maximum torque: 310 Nm.
Transmission: 8-speed automatic.
Drivetrain: xDrive AWD.
0–100 km/h: 8.68 seconds (tested).
The BMW offers smooth performance and a sporty driving experience, but the original xDrive20 tested here is less powerful than the GLC 300.
Performance Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
The GLC wins this round because it offers significantly more power, higher torque and quicker acceleration.
Important update: BMW subsequently introduced the X3 30 xDrive with 258 hp and 400 Nm, making the performance comparison much closer. Its claimed 0–100 km/h time is 6.3 seconds.
6. Mileage and Fuel Efficiency
Both SUVs use 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engines with mild-hybrid technology.
Mileage |
Mercedes GLC |
BMW X3 |
|---|---|---|
ARAI/claimed range |
Depends on variant |
Depends on variant |
Road-test fuel efficiency |
Driving-condition dependent |
Driving-condition dependent |
Fuel type |
Petrol |
Petrol |
Actual fuel efficiency depends on driving style, traffic conditions, road quality and selected driving mode.
For buyers who frequently drive in city traffic, both vehicles should be evaluated through a real-world test drive rather than relying only on claimed mileage figures.
7. Ride Quality and Handling
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
Mercedes GLC Ride Quality
The Mercedes GLC features a softer suspension setup that prioritises passenger comfort.
It absorbs road imperfections effectively, making it suitable for Indian roads and long-distance family journeys.
Its suspension offers a comfortable ride at lower speeds, and the cabin feels refined.
BMW X3 Ride Quality
The BMW X3 comes with adaptive dampers in the tested M Sport version.
Its suspension feels firmer than the Mercedes, but it provides better body control and stability when driving quickly through corners.
The steering also feels more engaging, making the X3 enjoyable for driving enthusiasts.
Ride and Handling Winner: Tie
Mercedes GLC: Better for comfortable family journeys.
BMW X3: Better for sporty driving and cornering.
8. Features and Technology Comparison
Both SUVs offer modern technology and premium convenience features.
Features |
Mercedes GLC |
BMW X3 |
|---|---|---|
Touchscreen |
11.9-inch |
14.9-inch |
Digital instrument display |
Yes |
12.3-inch |
Head-up display |
Yes |
Yes |
Panoramic roof |
Opening panoramic roof |
Fixed glass roof |
Ventilated seats |
Yes |
Yes |
Heated seats |
Yes |
No in tested version |
Massage/seat kinetics |
Yes |
No |
Adaptive suspension |
No in tested version |
Yes |
ADAS |
Yes |
Yes |
Wireless Apple CarPlay |
Yes |
Yes |
Wireless Android Auto |
Yes |
Yes |
Climate control |
2-zone |
3-zone |
Features Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
The Mercedes offers a better combination of luxury and comfort features, while the BMW has a larger infotainment screen and adaptive suspension.
9. Safety Features
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
Safety is important when purchasing a luxury family SUV.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Safety Features
10 airbags.
Active safety assistance.
Electronic stability control.
Parking assistance.
360-degree camera.
Driver assistance technology.
Tyre pressure monitoring.
BMW X3 Safety Features
8 airbags.
Driving assistance systems.
Electronic stability control.
Parking assistant.
Parking camera technology.
Active safety assistance.
Tyre pressure monitoring.
Both vehicles offer advanced safety technology, although equipment can differ by variant and model year.
Safety Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
The GLC gets the advantage in the tested specification because it offers more airbags.
10. Mercedes GLC vs BMW X3 Price in India
Price is an important factor in this comparison because both SUVs compete in the premium luxury segment.
Model |
Ex-showroom price |
|---|---|
Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 |
Approximately ₹75.50 lakh |
BMW X3 30 xDrive |
Approximately ₹74.50 lakh |
These are the February 2026 comparison prices for the updated X3 30 xDrive and GLC 300, not the original July 2025 road-test prices.
The BMW X3 30 xDrive is approximately ₹1 lakh cheaper than the GLC 300. Prices may change depending on variants and offers.
11. Pros and Cons
Mercedes-Benz GLC Pros
More luxurious interior.
Powerful 258 hp petrol engine.
Excellent acceleration.
Comfortable suspension.
Larger 640-litre boot in the original test.
More airbags in the tested specification.
Easy-to-use infotainment system.
Mercedes-Benz GLC Cons
Higher price than the updated X3 30 xDrive.
Front seats offer less support than the BMW.
Narrow footwell for some drivers.
Less engaging handling than the BMW.
BMW X3 Pros
Sporty exterior design.
Larger overall dimensions.
Excellent front-seat comfort.
Adaptive suspension.
Sporty handling and steering.
Large infotainment display.
Strong road presence.
BMW X3 Cons
Original xDrive20 engine is less powerful.
Smaller boot than the GLC.
Infotainment controls can be complicated.
Firmer suspension.
Interior materials feel less luxurious than the Mercedes.
12. Which One Should You Buy?
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
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| Mercedes GLC |
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| BMW X3 |
Choosing between the Mercedes GLC and BMW X3 depends on your priorities.
Choose Mercedes-Benz GLC if:
You want a luxurious cabin.
You prefer comfortable suspension.
You need more boot space.
You want strong petrol performance.
You prefer elegant exterior styling.
You want a premium family SUV.
Choose BMW X3 if:
You prefer sporty SUV styling.
You enjoy driving on highways and corners.
You want adaptive suspension.
You prefer supportive front seats.
You like a modern digital dashboard.
You want a more engaging driving experience.
Final Verdict: Mercedes GLC vs BMW X3
Both the Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3 are excellent luxury SUVs, but they offer different experiences.
The Mercedes GLC is more focused on luxury, comfort, refinement and powerful performance. Its premium interior, spacious boot and softer suspension make it an excellent family SUV.
The BMW X3 is designed for buyers who prefer sporty styling, sharper handling, adaptive suspension and a modern cabin.
Overall, the Mercedes-Benz GLC wins the original Autocar India comparison test because of its stronger engine, more luxurious cabin, comfortable ride and better overall balance.
However, the updated BMW X3 30 xDrive makes the competition much closer, especially in performance and pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is better, Mercedes GLC or BMW X3?
The Mercedes GLC wins the original comparison test for luxury, comfort and performance. The BMW X3 is better for sporty handling.
2. What is the price of Mercedes GLC in India?
The Mercedes GLC 300 is approximately ₹75.50 lakh ex-showroom in the February 2026 comparison.
3. What is the price of BMW X3 in India?
The BMW X3 30 xDrive is approximately ₹74.50 lakh ex-showroom.
4. Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
The original GLC 300 produces 258 hp, while the tested BMW X3 xDrive20 produces 190 hp.
5. Which SUV has better mileage?
Real-world mileage depends on driving conditions and variant. Buyers should compare actual fuel-efficiency figures before purchasing.
6. Which SUV has more boot space?
The Mercedes GLC offers more boot space in the original comparison, with 640 litres against the BMW X3's 570 litres.
7. Which SUV is more comfortable?
The Mercedes GLC offers a softer ride, while the BMW X3 provides better front-seat support.
8. Which SUV is better for long drives?
Both are excellent for long journeys. The GLC is more comfort-focused, while the X3 offers a sportier driving experience.
9. Does the Mercedes GLC have AWD?
Yes, the Mercedes GLC 300 4Matic comes with an all-wheel-drive system.
10. Does the BMW X3 have AWD?
Yes, the BMW X3 xDrive variants feature BMW's all-wheel-drive technology.
