What To Know
- The Ford Explorer comes well-equipped with a host of features, including a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system.
- The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, has a higher starting price of $43,550 for the base GLC 300 trim, and the range-topping GLC 350e starts at $53,550.
- The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, boasts a more luxurious interior, a more advanced infotainment system, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features.
The Ford Explorer and Mercedes GLC are two popular mid-size SUVs that offer a blend of performance, practicality, and luxury. Both vehicles have their own strengths and weaknesses, making it crucial for prospective buyers to weigh their options carefully. In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll delve into the key aspects of these SUVs, including their design, performance, features, safety, and pricing, to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Styling:
The Ford Explorer exudes a bold and muscular stance, with a commanding presence on the road. Its rugged exterior features sharp lines and a prominent grille, giving it an adventurous look. The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, showcases a sleek and sophisticated design, characterized by smooth curves and elegant accents. Its luxurious appearance is further enhanced by the available AMG styling package, which adds a sporty touch to the SUV.
Performance and Handling:
The Ford Explorer offers a range of engine options, including a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that delivers 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, it provides a smooth and responsive driving experience. The Mercedes GLC also boasts impressive powertrains, with the GLC 300 featuring a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that generates 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 350e, a plug-in hybrid variant, combines a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor, resulting in a combined output of 302 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque.
Features and Technology:
The Ford Explorer comes well-equipped with a host of features, including a SYNC 3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a premium audio system. The Mercedes GLC offers a more advanced infotainment system, the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience), which features a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen, voice control, and augmented reality navigation. Additionally, the GLC boasts a panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and a Burmester premium sound system, elevating the overall driving experience.
Safety Features:
Both the Ford Explorer and Mercedes GLC prioritize safety, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS). The Explorer features Co-Pilot360, which includes lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The Mercedes GLC comes equipped with a similar array of safety features, including Active Brake Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist. Additionally, the GLC offers a 360-degree camera system, providing a comprehensive view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
Cargo Space and Towing Capacity:
The Ford Explorer offers ample cargo space, with 18.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum cargo capacity of 87.8 cubic feet with both rows folded down. The Mercedes GLC provides a respectable 19.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and a maximum of 56.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. In terms of towing capacity, the Explorer outperforms the GLC, with a maximum towing capacity of 5,600 pounds compared to the GLC’s 3,500 pounds.
Pricing and Trims:
The Ford Explorer has a starting price of $33,245 for the base XLT trim, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim starts at $54,695. The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, has a higher starting price of $43,550 for the base GLC 300 trim, and the range-topping GLC 350e starts at $53,550.
The Verdict:
The Ford Explorer and Mercedes GLC are both excellent mid-size SUVs with distinct strengths and weaknesses. The Explorer offers a more rugged design, a more powerful engine lineup, and a more affordable price point. The Mercedes GLC, on the other hand, boasts a more luxurious interior, a more advanced infotainment system, and a more comprehensive suite of safety features. Ultimately, the choice between these two SUVs depends on individual preferences, budget, and priorities.
Key Points:
In the realm of mid-size SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Mercedes GLC stand out as formidable contenders. The Explorer embodies ruggedness, performance, and value, while the GLC exudes luxury, technology, and safety. Weighing these aspects carefully will lead you to the SUV that best aligns with your needs and desires. Whether you’re seeking adventure or refinement, the Ford Explorer and Mercedes GLC offer distinct paths to driving satisfaction.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
1. Q: Which SUV has a more powerful engine?
A: The Ford Explorer offers more powerful engine options, with the top-of-the-line Platinum trim delivering 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
2. Q: Which SUV has a more spacious interior?
A: The Ford Explorer provides more cargo space and seating capacity, with three rows of seats and a maximum cargo capacity of 87.8 cubic feet.
3. Q: Which SUV has a better fuel economy?
A: The Mercedes GLC has better fuel efficiency, with the GLC 300 achieving up to 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.