The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLC EV takes on the BMW iX3 in a battle of premium electric SUVs.
A New Era for Premium EVs
The luxury electric SUV segment is heating up, and two German giants are leading the charge — Mercedes-Benz with its all-new GLC EV and BMW with the iX3. Both cars represent a major step forward in the shift from traditional combustion engines to fully electric drivetrains.
Mercedes is betting big on the GLC EV because the GLC has historically been its best-selling model worldwide. BMW, on the other hand, has a head start with the iX3, a proven electric SUV already popular in several markets.
So, which one should you choose? The GLC EV with its luxurious comfort and futuristic features, or the BMW iX3 with its efficiency and longer range? Let’s find out in this detailed comparison.
Exterior Design & Dimensions
Mercedes-Benz GLC EV
The GLC EV carries forward the iconic Mercedes design language but with a futuristic twist.
- Front Fascia: The centerpiece is a bold grille with chrome accents and optional pixelated illumination that animates beautifully when unlocking.
- Headlights: Digital Light headlamps (optional) improve brightness while consuming less energy.
- Body Proportions: At 4.85 meters, it is 13 cm longer than the ICE GLC, with 8 cm added to the wheelbase, giving rear passengers more legroom.
- Wheels: Standard 19-inch alloys, going up to 21 inches in AMG Line Plus.
- Aerodynamics: Drag coefficient of 0.26, balancing style and efficiency.
- Rear: Full-width tail light strip with star patterns inside for a signature look.
BMW iX3
BMW’s iX3 looks like a modern evolution of the X3, but with EV-specific touches.
- Front: A closed kidney grille design with blue accents for EV identity.
- Headlights: Adaptive LED headlights as standard.
- Body Size: Slightly shorter than the GLC EV, measuring 4.73 meters in length.
- Aerodynamics: Drag coefficient of 0.24, slightly better than Mercedes.
- Wheels: Aerodynamic 19–20-inch alloys.
- Rear: Minimalist, with slim LED tail lamps and clean surfaces.
👉 Verdict: The GLC EV feels more futuristic and luxurious, while the iX3 retains BMW’s traditional sportiness with subtle EV cues.
Interior & Technology
Mercedes-Benz GLC EV
The cabin feels straight out of the future.
- Dashboard: Option of a massive 39-inch Hyperscreen, or a setup with a 12-inch driver display + 14-inch central and passenger screens.
- Controls: Mostly digital, though Mercedes has smartly brought back physical joysticks and rollers on the steering wheel after customer demand.
- Seats: Choice of sports seats with integrated headrests or comfort seats with adjustable support.
- Material: Artificial leather, microfiber, or fabric combinations depending on market.
- Ambient Lighting: Multiple customizable modes like Cosmic Glow and Polar Night.
- Roof: Optional panoramic glass roof with electrochromic dimming.
- Luxury Touches: Burmester sound system, rear seat heating, wireless charging with cooling.
BMW iX3
The iX3 interior blends familiarity with modern EV sophistication.
- Dashboard: A curved 14.9-inch central display paired with a 12.3-inch driver screen running BMW iDrive 8.
- Controls: Combination of touch, physical iDrive rotary dial, and voice commands.
- Seats: Comfortable, ergonomically designed leather sports seats with heating.
- Materials: Premium Sensatec leather and open-pore wood trims.
- Roof: Panoramic sunroof standard.
- Sound System: Harman Kardon surround system in higher trims.
👉 Verdict: Mercedes offers a more futuristic, tech-heavy cabin, while BMW sticks to a driver-focused, practical layout.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
Mercedes-Benz GLC EV (GLC 400 4MATIC)
- Powertrain: Dual-motor AWD setup.
- Output: Around 400 hp equivalent.
- 0–100 km/h: 4.5 seconds.
- Top Speed: 210 km/h (electronically limited).
- Suspension: Optional AIRMATIC pneumatic suspension with adaptive dampers + rear-axle steering up to 4.5°.
- Driving Feel: Comfort-oriented, especially with air suspension lowering automatically at high speeds for better aerodynamics.
BMW iX3
- Powertrain: Single motor RWD setup.
- Output: 286 hp.
- 0–100 km/h: 6.8 seconds.
- Top Speed: 180 km/h (electronically limited).
- Suspension: Sport-tuned suspension, no air suspension option.
- Driving Feel: More dynamic, sporty character but slightly firmer ride quality.
👉 Verdict: The GLC EV wins on outright performance and comfort tech, while the iX3 appeals to enthusiasts who prefer a traditional BMW sporty drive.
Battery, Range & Charging
Mercedes-Benz GLC EV
- Battery Capacity: 94 kWh (usable).
- Range (WLTP): Up to 700 km.
- Real-World Range: Around 550 km.
- Charging:
- 11 kW AC (standard) / 22 kW AC (optional).
- 330 kW DC fast charging (10–80% in ~20 mins).
- 800V architecture for ultra-fast charging.
BMW iX3
- Battery Capacity: 108 kWh (usable).
- Range (WLTP): Up to 800 km.
- Real-World Range: Around 640 km.
- Charging:
- 11 kW AC standard.
- 150 kW DC fast charging (10–80% in ~34 mins).
- 400V system (slower compared to Mercedes).
👉 Verdict: The iX3 edges ahead in efficiency and range, while the GLC EV has much faster charging tech.
Comfort & Ride Quality
- GLC EV: Prioritizes luxury, with air suspension, rear-axle steering, and plush seating. Perfect for long-distance comfort and city maneuverability.
- iX3: Firmer suspension tuned for sportiness. Comfortable, but not as cushiony as the GLC EV.
👉 Mercedes wins here if comfort is your top priority.
Safety & Driver Assistance
Both SUVs come packed with advanced safety and ADAS features:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane-keeping assist
- Automatic emergency braking
- Blind spot monitoring
- Parking assist
Mercedes goes a step further with advanced driver monitoring and MBUX augmented reality navigation.
Comparison Table – Mercedes-Benz GLC EV vs BMW iX3
| Feature | Mercedes GLC EV | BMW iX3 |
| Length | 4.85 m | 4.73 m |
| Battery (usable) | 94 kWh | 108 kWh |
| Range (WLTP) | 700 km | 800 km |
| Real Range | 550 km | 640 km |
| Powertrain | Dual motor AWD | Single motor RWD |
| Power Output | ~400 hp | 286 hp |
| 0–100 km/h | 4.5 sec | 6.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 180 km/h |
| DC Fast Charging | 330 kW (20 min) | 150 kW (34 min) |
| Suspension | Optional air + rear steering | Sport-tuned |
Pros & Cons
Mercedes-Benz GLC EV
✅ Futuristic design and cabin
✅ Powerful dual-motor AWD
✅ Ultra-fast charging (330 kW)
✅ Air suspension & rear-axle steering
❌ Slightly lower real-world range
❌ Likely higher price
BMW iX3
✅ Longer range (640 km real)
✅ Proven efficiency
✅ Sporty driving feel
✅ Slightly more affordable
❌ Slower charging (150 kW)
❌ No air suspension or AWD option
Alternatives Worth Considering
- Audi Q4 e-tron – Balanced design, mid-range pricing.
- Volvo XC40 Recharge – Scandinavian style + Google-based infotainment.
- Lexus RZ 450e – Reliable, unique design.
- Tesla Model Y – Tech-loaded, fastest charging network globally.
Verdict – Which One Should You Choose?
If you want efficiency, longer range, and sportiness, the BMW iX3 is the smart choice. It remains closer to BMW’s driving DNA and offers excellent mileage per charge.
If you prioritize luxury, comfort, cutting-edge tech, and futuristic design, the Mercedes-Benz GLC EV is unbeatable. It sets the benchmark for what a premium EV should feel like.
Ultimately, the decision comes down to your lifestyle:
- BMW iX3 → Best for long-distance drivers and range-conscious buyers.
- Mercedes GLC EV → Best for luxury seekers who want comfort, speed, and innovation.
FAQs
1. Which has better range, GLC EV or BMW iX3?
The BMW iX3, with around 640 km real-world range, beats the GLC EV’s 550 km.
2. Which EV charges faster?
The Mercedes GLC EV, with 330 kW DC fast charging, charges nearly twice as fast as the iX3.
3. Which SUV is more comfortable?
The GLC EV, thanks to air suspension, rear-axle steering, and plush interiors.
4. Which one is sportier?
The BMW iX3, with its firmer suspension and driver-focused tuning.
5. Which should I buy?
Choose the GLC EV for luxury and tech, or the iX3 for range and efficiency.
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