Head to Head: BMW X3, Mercedes GLC, Land Rover Discovery

It’s the battle of the mid-size SUVs: the new Mercedes GLC takes on BMW’s popular BMW X3 and Land Rover’s class-leading Discovery Sport.
Sarah Bradley|Whatcar19 September 2016

The mid-market SUV sector has long been dominated by Land Rover’s Discovery Sport. The Brit off-roader is an excellent all-rounder that’s hard to beat, particularly in seven-seat diesel guise. BMW’s X3 is another strong contender, and now there’s a further challenger for sales, the latest Mercedes GLC.

We test the latter here in range-topping GLC 250 d guise, against the Discovery Sport 2.0 TD4 180 and X3 xDrive20d. The Merc’s immediate credentials impress, thanks to its smart, upmarket and bang up-to-date styling, not to mention its significant power and performance advantages over its rivals.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 d

It’s more refined than the BMW, and its low-rev drive and higher-speed power combine to push it ahead of its German countrymate, despite the latter model’s crisp eight-ratio transmission and sprightly, if slightly gruff, performance. The Land Rover lags behind here, due to slower sprint times and a drive that’s less sporty than you’d expect. At least it’s accurate to steer, and has a comfortable and settled ride.

We expected our sporty GLC AMG Line’s optional 20-inch alloys to deliver a stiff ride, but the pay-off for a more fidgety response than the Land Rover is flatter cornering. Compared with the ultra-stiff X3 M Sport, the balance is a lot better, too; the BMW’s firm suspension means bumps can knock it off line all too easily. At least softer suspension is a no-cost option.

The Mercedes also impresses most inside. One or two minor fit and finish issues aside, it feels more premium than either the more dour BMW’s or the Discovery Sport’s. The Brit has the clunkiest infotainment system as well. However, the Land Rover is also the more functional, family-friendly model, and practicality is a big deal in this sector. Its seven-seat layout offers more middle-row space, and these seats slide and recline, unlike in the other two.

BMW X3 xDrive20d

You can fold the child-sized third-row seats flat to give a large and useful load area that’s the longest and widest here. In this respect, there’s little to distinguish the BMW and Merc apart, although we like the latter’s easy-fold rear seats, operated via boot wall-mounted switches.

When buying, factoring in discounts shows that only £2 separates the GLC and the next most expensive contender, the Discovery Sport. The X3 is the cheapest. Conversely, the BMW has the most expensive PCP finance rates, at £528 a month, with the Merc and Land Rover costing £482 and £486 respectively. The GLC also has the lowest CO2 emissions – great for business users – and best fuel economy, while its retained values are marginally the highest.

Land Rover Discovery Sport TD4 180

When it comes to spec, the Disco Sport gets the most equipment. It shares kit such as electric front seats, reversing camera and premium headlights with the GLC, but raises the standard-fit tally with keyless entry and a panoramic roof. Each of our trio also boasts big alloys, heated leather front seats, climate and cruise control, an electric tailgate and all-round parking sensors.

Regarding safety, all three have a five-star Euro NCAP safety rating; the Merc scores the highest for individual adult, child and pedestrian protection. It shares standard-fit city with the Land Rover, but this feature costs extra on the BMW.

When rating our contenders in order, the X3 gives way to its rivals. It can’t compete with its newer, more accomplished competitors here, especially in more hardcore M Sport spec. We far prefer the new GLC, which is one of Mercedes’ best offerings in years. This great all-rounder is classy, good to drive and makes financial sense.

Neither can topple the Land Rover Discovery Sport, however. Forget the relative dearth of engine power and unsophisticated infotainment; this superb, class-leading SUV wins out with its seven-seat practicality, generous kit and comfort. The king retains its crown.


3: Specifications: BMW X3 xDrive20d

Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
Price: £38,590 (list)
Power: 188bhp
0-60mph: 8.5 seconds
Top speed: 130mph
Fuel economy: 38.4mpg
CO2: 136g/km

2: Specifications: Land Rover Discovery Sport TD4 180

Engine: 2.0-litre diesel
Price: £39,400 (list)
Power: 178bhp
0-60mph: 10.3 seconds
Top speed: 117mph
Fuel economy: 35.9mpg
CO2: 139g/km

1: Specifications: Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 d

Engine: 2.1-litre diesel
Price: £39,595 (list)
Power: 201bhp
0-60mph: 7.7 seconds
Top speed: 138mph
Fuel economy: 39.3mpg
CO2: 129g/km

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