The GLC-Class is a wholly competent crossover that could only benefit from more excitement.
Pros Quiet and refined, gorgeous and spacious interior, more practical than a C-Class.
Cons Lacks driving verve, limited cargo space, most driver assists aren't standard.
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class is comfortable and quiet, with few rivals in among small luxury crossovers.
Pros Great looks Performance potential in AMG versions Comfortable ride and interior Good rear seat room Good active safety features, standard and optional
Cons Top spec versions are pricey Refresh was very light Compromised outward vision in coupes Small rear doors in coupes
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class comes with rear wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 9-speed shiftable automatic.Now offers Mercedes' excellent MBUX infotainment system.More power for the GLC 300 and GLC 43.GLC 350e plug-in gets larger battery and more electric range.
Pros Balance of comfort and performance makes it an appealing daily driver Elegant design inside and out gives it a true luxury appearance Plenty of room for adult-size passengers in back Solid fuel economy from the standard four-cylinder engine
Cons Pricier than some rivals Some common standard driver aids are still optional
Pro: Well-built and spacious cabin Comfortable seats in the front and second rows Strong acceleration, especially in the XC90 T8 Cons: Third-row seats are only good for small adults or kids One USB port in a luxury family crossover is unacceptable
Pros Sharp new look and style; spacious second- and third-row seating; many standard safety technology features; confident handling; available hybrid model.
Cons Overly busy and firm ride quality; base engine comes up short on performance and real-world fuel economy; some touchscreen controls are hard to use.
Endnote: The XC90's suspension tuning is another mixed bag. On smooth pavement, the XC90 feels calm and controlled on its available air suspension. But over ruts, bumps and broken pavement, the vehicle delivers too many impacts and jitters to the occupants for a luxury SUV. We've only driven the XC90 with the big 21-inch wheels, but based on that experience, we recommend going with smaller wheels if possible to help smooth out the ride. Around turns, there's better news, as the XC90 inspires confidence with its planted character, feeling smaller and lighter than it really is.
The 2016 XC90 is raising the design bar in the premium three-row large crossover segment. And with a long roster of standard equipment that includes leather seating, navigation, a panoramic sunroof, a smartphone-like infotainment system and state-of-the-art safety gear, the XC90 provides an intriguing alternative to the German-branded competition.
