2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. BMW X3

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV exterior gray driving on road
 

The Mercedes-Benz GLC and BMW X3 are spacious crossover vehicles with many luxurious appointments. But which model is ideal for your busy lifestyle in Katy or the surrounding areas? To help you decide which luxury vehicle is right for you, review our Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. BMW X3 comparison. We review how these models differ in terms of specs and features. If you have any questions for the Star Motor Cars Mercedes-Benz team, please let us know. Our dealership in Houston is also here if you want to take a test drive. 

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV

vs.

2026 BMW X3
5

Number of Trim Levels

2
5

Seating Capacity

5
671 hp

Maximum Available Horsepower

393 hp
3.5 seconds*

Fastest Available 0–60 Time

4.4 seconds
Yes

PHEV Models Available?

No
Standard

MBUX Technology?

Not available

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC Vs. BMW X3 Specs

Both the GLC and X3 are equipped with a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder as the base engine, delivering comparable power and torque. With that said, the GLC lineup includes a wider range of engine options, two performance-enhanced AMG® trims, and a plug-in hybrid iteration, none of which are offered in the X3 lineup. Power-related Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. BMW X3 specs range from 255 hp on the base SUV model to 671 hp on the Mercedes-AMG® GLC 63 S E PERFORMANCE SUV, with the base X3 generating 255 hp and the X3 M50 xDrive producing 393 hp. Overall, the Mercedes-Benz offers a spectrum of performance—efficient commuting in Sugarland, off-road confidence, and bold, racing-inspired power—giving you more options for tailoring your next SUV to your exact driving needs.

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC Vs. BMW X3: Features

New Mercedes-Benz vehicles are industry leaders in automotive luxury, so it is not surprising that the GLC SUV also outshines the X3 in this regard. Here are just a few of the GLC amenities that will take your Woodlands driving experience to new heights of comfort and convenience:

  • The cabin integrates premium materials like leather or high-quality upholstery, wood or metal trim, and ambient lighting.
  • Infotainment is handled by the standard MBUX system, which features a large 11.9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, with intuitive controls, voice control functionality, and a modern interface.
  • Standard and available comfort features across many trims include heated, power-adjustable front seats, a heated steering wheel, a power liftgate, and other appointments that lend an ultra-luxe feel without compromising utility.
  • The GLC has more generous passenger space, particularly in legroom and headroom, than the X3.

See The Mercedes-Benz GLC For Yourself In Houston

Now that you have reviewed the Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. BMW X3 specs and features, are you partial to the former luxury model? Call (713) 868-6825 or contact us online today to schedule your test drive. We look forward to helping you customize this impressive SUV. If you have questions at any time, do not hesitate to reach out. For more informative reads, review our guide on the Mercedes-Benz warranty.

 

*Stated rates of acceleration are estimated based upon manufacturer’s track results and may vary depending on model, environmental and road surface conditions, driving style, elevation and vehicle load.

BMW X3 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC: Performance & Styling

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC offers a traditional SUV body style that’s sophisticated and exciting. However, it also provides a coupe-like design with the Mercedes-Benz GLC Coupe configuration if you’d like an even more exciting vehicle to join you on your Sugarland travels. Meanwhile, the BMW X3 simply offers an SUV body style that could blend in with other vehicles on the road.

 

If you’re searching for an exciting vehicle to join you on your adventures, you’ll find that the Mercedes-Benz GLC is the best option because not only is it stylish but it also provides more power and efficiency in its standard configuration. Here are the standard performance specifications for the Mercedes-Benz vs. BMW:

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV

 

  • Engine: 2.0L I4 turbo with mild hybrid drive
  • Horsepower: 255 hp
  • Torque: 295 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy: Up to 25 mpg city / 32 mpg highway*

 

2024 BMW X3 sDrive30i

 

  • Engine: 2.0L BMW TwinPower Turbo I4
  • Horsepower: 248 hp
  • Torque: 258 lb-ft
  • Fuel Economy: Up to 23 mpg city / 29 mpg highway

 

BMW X3 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC: Interior Dimensions

When comparing the Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. BMW X3 specs, it’s clear the Mercedes-Benz GLC provides more performance and style—well, it also offers better interior comfort as well. You’ll find that the BMW X3 interior is simply smaller inside the cabin. Both vehicles seat up to five passengers but you and your passengers will have more room to stretch out inside of the Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV. Take a look at the Mercedes-Benz vs. BMW comparison for their interior dimensions:

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV

 

  • Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
  • Front/Rear Headroom: 41.3 inches / 39.7 inches
  • Front/Rear Legroom: 40.7 inches / 37.4 inches
  • Maximum Cargo Capacity: 56.3 cubic feet

 

2024 BMW X3

 

  • Seating Capacity: 5 passengers
  • Front/Rear Headroom: 41.1 inches / 39.1 inches
  • Front/Rear Legroom: 40.3 inches / 36.4 inches
  • Maximum Cargo Capacity: 62.7 cubic feet

 

Experience the Exceptional Mercedes-Benz GLC at Star Motor Cars

While the BMW X3 provides fierce competition for the Mercedes-Benz GLC, it’s clear that the GLC comes out ahead with its better design, fiercer performance, and higher luxury. But don’t take our word on the BMW X3 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC comparison! Experience the new Mercedes-Benz GLC for yourself in Houston with a test drive at Star Motor Cars—reach out to our team to schedule your visit or stop by at your convenience.

 

*Base MSRP excludes transportation and handling charges, destination charges, taxes, title, registration, preparation and documentary fees, tags, labor and installation charges, insurance, and optional equipment, products, packages and accessories. Options, model availability and actual dealer price may vary. See dealer for details, costs and terms.

**EPA estimated fuel economy. Compare the estimated mpg to the estimated mpg of other vehicles. You may get different mileage depending on how fast you drive, weather conditions and trip length. Your actual highway mileage will probably be less than the highway estimate.


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