If you’re looking for an appealing blend of practicality and style without paying the price of a full-size luxury SUV, a compact luxury crossover is the way to go. of BMW X3 has been a front runner since the original model was introduced in 2003, but continues to face stiff competition from the United States. Mercedes-Benz GLC.
BMW recently unveiled a completely redesigned X3 for 2025, but will the Bavarian machine do enough to stay ahead of its long-time rival? Edmunds experts compared two luxury sport utility vehicles.
engine and fuel consumption
The 2025 BMW X3 is available in two trims: 30 xDrive and M50 xDrive. The 30 xDrive provides plenty of stimulation for daily use, delivering an EPA-estimated 29 mpg combined, a solid number for a small luxury SUV. Those interested in a more performance-oriented experience should also consider the M50 xDrive. That’s because the M50 xDrive offers significantly more power and gets just 2 mpg less in combined driving than the 30 xDrive.
Mercedes-Benz, on the other hand, is available in five trim levels, from the entry-level GLC 300 to the high-performance GLC 63 SE Performance. This version of the GLC offers significantly more power than the M50 xDrive, despite its significantly higher price.
The rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 matches the output of the X3 30 xDrive, but with an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg, it’s slightly less efficient. However, Mercedes also offers a GLC 350e plug-in hybrid version that may help reduce gas usage. BMW currently does not offer a plug-in hybrid X3.
Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
comfort and convenience
The interior of the new X3 is nice, with plenty of space for both passengers and cargo. The X3 also scores points for its highly adjustable front seats. The button that allows you to quickly call up the 360-degree camera while the car is parked is also popular.
The GLC offers a more elegant interior that captures the look and feel of Mercedes-Benz’s higher-end models, with a little more space for passengers than the X3, but also significantly less cargo space in the back. The center console layout could also be made a little more intuitive. This is because it is difficult to attach and detach your smartphone to the wireless charging pad if you have a drink in the cup holder.
Winner: BMW X3
technology
The X3’s digital gauge cluster and 14.9-inch touchscreen display are stylishly integrated into a single curved housing, giving the cabin a tech-advanced look. While the main menu’s array of apps can be a little overwhelming at first, we quickly got used to it and appreciated the system’s snappy responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration comes standard, and a vertical wireless charging pad keeps things organized and accessible.
The GLC’s vertical 11.9-inch touchscreen isn’t quite as crisp as the X3’s display, but Mercedes wins some points back thanks to its generous screen real estate and surprisingly effective voice control capabilities. The in-car navigation system with augmented reality turn-by-turn directions is also great.
Winner: draw
driving experience
The X3 30 xDrive offers punchy straight-line performance, sporty handling and a composed ride. Brake response also scores high points, and unlike the GLC, the X3 also offers a hands-free highway driving system that makes highway commuting a little easier.
The GLC 300’s engine is more modest than the X3 30 xDrive’s, and the automatic engine stop/start feature isn’t as harsh (or as cumbersome to disable) as the BMW’s. The Mercedes is good for everyday driving, but it’s not particularly sporty. The result is a more cushioned ride, but less precision and extra body movement over bumps and undulations in the road.
Winner: BMW X3
price and value
Prices for the 2026 BMW X3 start at $52,075, and prices for the 2026 GLC start at $50,800. In other words, Mercedes will be slightly underperforming BMW. However, all-wheel drive is also standard on all X3 models, while the GLC’s all-wheel-drive system is optional.
But no matter how optioned, the GLC feels like a product aimed directly at luxury buyers. While the X3 offers a livelier design and more advanced technology, the GLC simply offers a more convincing expression of a luxury car.
Winner: Mercedes-Benz GLC
Edmunds says
These two vehicles are so similar that it’s tempting to call this a tie. Looking specifically at the X3 30 xDrive and GLC 300 trims, the X3 is sportier and more capable while also offering significantly more cargo capacity, while the GLC is quieter, more comfortable, and more luxurious overall. The X3 is ultimately more rounded and wins.
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This article was provided to The Associated Press by an automotive website. edmunds. Bradley Iger is an Edmunds contributor.
