2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 vs Range Rover Evoque Comparison

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 vs 2017 Range Rover Evoque

Serving Tallahassee, Valdosta, Thomasville, Quincy, Bainbridge

The compact luxury SUV segment is not only one of the most competitive but, undoubtedly, the most dramatic. In recent years we have seen manufacturers, both new and old, invest millions of dollars in research in a bid to outdo their competition. While some SUVs have failed, several including the Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and the Range Rover Evoque continue to triumph. Although they are both class leaders, our research shows that the GLC 300 has the edge over the Evoque.

Performance: Specs & MPG

Mercedes-Benz combines typical no-nonsense German attitude with decades of experience to give the GLC 300 engines monstrous capabilities. The base GLC 300 employs a 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder that generates 241 hp and 273 ft-lbs of torque. The engine is complemented by a nine-speed shiftable automatic transmission that drives the rear wheels - with an optional 4MATIC® All Wheel System that sends power to all wheels. A rear-wheel-drive GLC 300 makes a dash from zero to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, and EPA estimates place its fuel economy at 22 city / 28 highway*. The 4MATIC® version of the GLC 300 is rated for 21 city / 28 highway*.

The entry-level model 2017 Evoque is driven by a 2.0 L 4-cylinder engine that makes 240 hp and 250 ft-lbs of torque. A 9-speed automatic transmission is standard on all trim levels, and EPA fuel estimates put it at 21 city / 29 highway mpg*. The base engine Evoque goes from 0 - 62mph in 7.1 seconds, an impressive time for its segment but still much slower than the GLC 300. The two available 2.0-litre diesel engine variations produce only 150 horsepower or 180 horsepower.

Interior: Room and Features

The 2017 GLC 300 interior is almost identical to that of the C-Class sedan on which it is based. For those who are not familiar with the latter, that is a great thing. It offers high-quality materials, ample seating and cargo space, and solid construction. Standard on all trims is genuine leatherette upholstery, hands-free entry, keyless ignition, navigation, a five-speaker sound system with Bluetooth DAB+. The dials and controls are logically arranged such that they become second nature in time. It also comes standard with heated and cooled front seats and surprisingly comfortable rear seats. To be fair, the Evoque shares most of these qualities but offers a smaller interior and cargo space. It also does not come standard with cooled front seats and legroom is a bit tight in the back.

Comfort: Handling and Ride Quality

Both vehicles provide a comfortable ride and a pleasant driving experience. However, you will not fail to notice that the GLC 300 handling is crisper and its ride quality mode composed. The GLC 300 interior is also better insulated from outside noises, and the steering feels responsive and progressive in the bends. The suspension makes the imperfections in the road unnoticeable while the drive modes adjust the GLC 300 temperament from leisurely to sporty by altering the transmission shift points and throttle response. As much as the Evoque offers Landrover's renowned off-road capabilities, its sealed-road drivability does not match up to the GLC 300.

Please browse our website for more on 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 and check our inventory for vehicle availability. Stop by our local Mercedes-Benz dealership in Tallahassee to test drive the 2017 GLC 300 or one of the many Mercedes-Benz SUV models available.

* EPA estimated MPG may vary by transmission, trim and individual driving behavior.