When you think of a compact luxury SUV, it’s likely that one of three German vehicles comes to mind: the BMW X3, Mercedes-Benz GLC or Audi Q5. They’re the most ubiquitous vehicles in the small luxury SUV segment — but which one is the best? Edmunds’ Clint Simone finds out in this comparison test video. BMW X3: https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/x3/?utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=youtube_description Mercedes-Benz GLC: https://www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz/glc-class/?utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=youtube_description Audi Q5: https://www.edmunds.com/audi/q5/?utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=youtube_description 00:00 Intro 01:01 BMW X3 07:28 Mercedes GLC 13:39 Audi Q5 20:56 Value 22:15 Edmunds' Take Subscribe to Edmunds https://www.youtube.com/user/edmundsvideo?sub_confirmation=1 for the latest car news, car reviews, car comparisons, car shopping and advice. Visit us! https://www.edmunds.com
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I can't get behind the design of the latest X3 at all
I'm a bit confused, you said the GLC had the worst driving comfort/experience, yet the finals Edmund's score showed it had the highest rating among the three vehicles by a significant margin?
That grille on the X 3 why did they change it? Their original grille was iconic. Hate it!!!
I prefer my physical climate controls too. I had my car computer go out and lost all of those buttons until I had it fixed.
He does an excellent job on these videos!
I can get over the front face of the BMW but not the interiors, I'd buy the last gen X3.
Any car at these prices should have a very good sound system standard.
The autostart/stop in the x3 can be disabled from the pulldown shortcut menu. Just pull it down and disable it.
I have a 2025 GLC300 Coupe. I am a longtime Mercedes and BMW purchaser, always an E class, or 5 series. I switched because I was tired of the low slung body styles. Without a doubt, the GLC 300 Coupe meets and exceeds all of my expectations. Phenomenal.
Can absolutely confirm your point about the optional upgraded sound system - I didn't get that in mine, because I had the previous gen X3 and found the base sound system to be excellent. On this latest gen X3, though, the base sound system really lacks in bass. You have to turn the volume up quite a bit for things to start sounding good with it. I'd go so far as saying the base sound system is kinda bad, actually.
Which of these German luxury SUVs would you take home and why? Let us know in the comments!
It's the Audi for me
The GLC350e has a much improved ride due to the air suspension in the rear, and gets at least 10 miles more range than they market (I've achieved over 65 miles) and also easier to use hybrid than the Volvo XC60 T8.
Man that X3 steering wheel looks like the head & face of Rosie O'Donnell.
Can someone tell me who’s walking around with 3 gallon water bottles and would base spending 60k on how deep the armrest is? 🤷🏾♂️
I’m in the market for a medium sized luxury suv. I hate the design of the x3 and most of the bmw lineup. The loose part of the dash indicates poor build quality and makes the decision not the buy the bmw easy. After your video I’m leaning towards the Mercedes. Great video and very informative.
did you mention how great the ride is in the Audi Q5 because of the air suspension, besides for loading
Drove all 3. The X3 has more personality and drives much better than the numb Merc and boring Audi. Build quality of South Carolina cars can be inconsistent. Vertical screens are not going away. Nice practical review.
The German brands used to have some of the best and unique styling, even at least back 5 years ago. I think the none premium brands have caught up, like Hyundai are making much more unique designs and quality.
Great comparison! I went with the '25 MB GLC350e that was briefly mentioned as an alternative in this review of the GLC. It is SO much better to drive and rides far better than the ICE version. A slightly higher load floor is about the only negative when compared with the ICE version. I agree that rear USB ports and rear seatbacks that recline should be standard at this price point however. Having 54 miles of pure electric range is a no-brainer as well. Well worth the price premium IMO.