The new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 SUV just debuted globally. For the same money, which cars can be considered as worthy alternatives? The Middle Eastern market should receive the facelift in due time. In the meanwhile, here are five good options for the same money.
BMW X3
The BMW X3 had to make it to this list. BMW has a rival product to compete against each of Mercedes-Benz's and own model range. Globally, the German firm fields the X3 luxury crossover against the GLC. Packing a 2.0-litre turbocharged inline-four motor producing 245hp and 350Nm, the X3 is capable of cracking the ton in 7.5 seconds. An eight-speed automatic gearbox transmits power to all four wheels in the Drive trim.
You expect a car of a certain size and brand to offer top-notch interiors, technology, and safety. Indeed, the BMW X3 does not disappoint on either front. iDrive infotainment hub, premium upholstery and trim, and a suite of electronic driver aids mean that this SUV is one of the safest on the road. The 2020 BMW X3 is available in the UAE for AED 233,500.
Lexus RX
Lexus has long been one of the most favourite brands in the UAE. The Japanese carmaker's top-down approach gave us the Lexus RX, which is now deservedly selling like hot cakes in the Gulf. A 3.5-litre V6 motor powers all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox. The rakishly designed SUV can hit the ton in 7.7 seconds, on par for the competition.
In typical Lexus fashion, the cabin is neat and luxurious. Heated and cooled seats, memory function for the electronic seat position adjustment, cruise control, climate control, multi-information display - all these are standard fitments across every trim of the Lexus RX. As regards safety, Lexus does not skimp on technology to keep occupants of the RX safe. The web of safety systems includes ABS, TPMS, hill start assist, traction control, and supplementary tech. The 2020 Lexus RX starts from AED 230,000 for the Prestige trim.
Infiniti QX60
Nissan's luxury arm Infiniti also makes a worthy contender against the 2020 GLC. The 2020 Infiniti QX60 might look a little conventional when viewed for the first time. Yet, this doesn't mean it is not modern and bold in its design. Powered by a 3.5-litre V6 putting down 295hp and 370Nm, the QX60 brings proper 4WD to the table. Power is transmitted via a CVT unit.
The upscale interior contrasts the plain-looking exterior. You get a centre console finished in piano black, and a suite of ergonomically designed controls on it. The seats, upholstery, trim, and design inside screams top-notch. Safety systems aboard the Infiniti QX60 include cruise control, ABS, eight airbags, traction control, TPMS, and hill assist. The 2020 Infiniti QX60 can be yours starting from AED 205,000 for the Premium trim.
Volvo XC60
Strictly a personal opinion, but I believe this one is the best looking SUV of the lot. The Merc GLC comes real close after its latest refresh, but the Volvo is still miles ahead in terms of cohesive and minimal design elements. Powered by the new-generation turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot motor, this SUV puts down 254hp and 350Nm.
Despite the relatively lower power figures, this Swedish SUV is the fastest off the line, speeding past the ton in 6.8 seconds. AWD is also available aboard the XC60. Inside, the Scandinavian impact upon cabin design is clearly evident. A tasteful centre console that holds all the vital controls greets you as you step in. Coupled together, Volvo's choice of interior trim and the layout impart a sense of space and light in the cabin.
Volvo is an automotive safety technology pioneer. Consequently, the XC60 is packed to the brim with occupant and pedestrian safety tech. Eight airbags, ABS, traction control, TPMS, cruise control, hill assist, and rear parking camera are just some of the entries in a long list of comprehensive safety features. The 2020 Volvo XC60 starts from AED 186,000 for the T5 AWD trim.
