The BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC have always been arch rivals in the midsize luxury SUV segment. Both models are available with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine paired with an automatic transmission. But between the BMW X3 xDrive 20 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300, which has better performance? We dug up our real-world testing data to find out.
Explore the full breakdown of specifications, features and prices in our X3 vs GLC comparison.
BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC: Specifications
Both get a similar 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, but the GLC is more powerful
These rivals are offered with a similar-capacity 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine. However, the GLC 300 produces 68hp and 90Nm more than the X3 xDrive 20 and also offers an additional gear. Both SUVs also feature an all-wheel-drive (AWD) setup and a 48V mild-hybrid system, which gives an additional boost under acceleration, and a ‘Sport' mode that changes how the powertrain responds. But the X3 adds a ‘Boost’ mode, too, which offers a 10-second acceleration boost when you hold the paddleshifters.
The X3 xDrive 20 is the lighter car in this comparison, weighing 120kg less than the GLC 300. However, lower weight alone does not help it, as the GLC has better power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratios.
In terms of price, the X3 xDrive 20 is Rs 4.50 lakh more affordable than the GLC 300.
BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC: Acceleration times
The GLC’s 0-100kph time is 1.72s quicker than the X3’s
The GLC 300 is the quicker SUV off the line, as its higher power and torque outputs allow for a 0.15-second quicker 0-20kph time than the BMW X3 xDrive 20. From there, the GLC does not allow the X3 to catch up.
The Mercedes is 1.72 seconds faster to reach 100kph and touches 120kph 2.35 seconds sooner than its rival.
BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC: Rolling acceleration times
GLC is quicker in the in-gear 20-80kph and 40-100kph acceleration tests
The GLC again beats the X3 by 1.47 seconds and 1.91 seconds in the 20-80kph and 40-100kph in-gear acceleration tests, respectively. As the in-gear timings are quicker in the GLC 300, it overtakes more effortlessly than the X3 xDrive 20.
Autocar India’s testing standards
Before conducting our performance tests, we check and maintain tyre pressures based on the manufacturer’s recommendations and ensure the car has a full tank of fuel. The car is then tested in a controlled environment with two people on board, and the data is collected via highly accurate GPS-based timing equipment.
Prices are ex-showroom, India.
Uday Singh
Saptarshi Mondal
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Rivan RS 
