2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV vs. BMW X3

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV and BMW X3 M50 xDrive bring two distinct approaches to the compact performance SUV. Both combine six-cylinder power, 4MATIC® all-wheel drive or xDrive all-wheel drive, and sophisticated cabin technology, but differences in output, performance equipment, and standard features help set them apart. Mercedes-Benz of Los Angeles compares these two German performance SUVs.

Power and Performance

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV features an AMG®-enhanced 3.0-liter inline-six with an exhaust-gas turbocharger and electric auxiliary compressor, producing 443 horsepower and 443 lb-ft of torque. Overboost briefly increases torque to 472 lb-ft for up to 10 seconds, while a second-generation integrated starter-generator can contribute up to 23 horsepower and 151 lb-ft at lower engine speeds. The BMW X3 M50 xDrive produces 393 horsepower and 428 lb-ft of torque from its 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid powertrain.

With standard RACE START®, the Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in an estimated 4.0 seconds, compared with 4.4 seconds for the BMW X3 M50 xDrive. The Mercedes-AMG® SUV also pairs its AMG® SPEEDSHIFT® TCT 9G transmission with AMG® Performance 4MATIC®+ fully variable all-wheel drive. For drivers seeking additional performance capability, the available AMG® DYNAMIC PLUS Package adds a RACE drive program, Drift Mode, active engine mounts, and an electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential.

Handling and Driving Dynamics

Performance in the 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV extends beyond straight-line acceleration. Standard 2.5-degree rear-axle steering helps improve agility at lower speeds and stability at higher speeds, while AMG® RIDE CONTROL suspension with adaptive damping adjusts to changing driving conditions. Three-stage AMG® parameter steering also varies its level of assistance according to the selected drive program.

AMG® DYNAMIC SELECT provides Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+, and Individual drive programs, allowing drivers to tailor the engine, transmission, suspension, and steering response. The available AMG® DYNAMIC PLUS Package takes that capability further with its RACE program, Drift Mode, active engine mounts, and electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential.

Technology Features

Inside this new Mercedes-Benz model, a 12.3-inch driver display and 11.9-inch central multimedia display provide access to vehicle information, entertainment, and performance settings. Third-generation MBUX includes natural-language voice control, navigation, and AMG®-specific displays and content, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™, wireless smartphone charging, and a Digital Vehicle Key add everyday convenience.

The standard AMG® Performance steering wheel also includes AMG® DRIVE UNIT controls, allowing drivers to quickly adjust drive programs and other performance settings. The BMW X3 M50 xDrive takes a different approach with BMW Operating System 9 and its BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch information display with a 14.9-inch control display.

Safety and Driver Assistance

The 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV comes standard with a comprehensive collection of driver-assistance technology. Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC® can help maintain a set following distance, while Blind Spot Assist and Active Brake Assist provide additional support as traffic conditions change. PRESAFE® can prepare certain vehicle systems when an impending collision is detected, while PRESAFE® Sound is designed to help protect occupants’ hearing from potentially harmful crash noise.

Parking technology is extensive as well. A standard Surround View 360 Camera provides multiple perspectives around the Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV, while the Transparent Hood Function can provide a virtual view beneath the front of the vehicle. PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist provides additional support when maneuvering into tight spaces.

Explore the 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV in Los Angeles, CA

With greater horsepower, sophisticated chassis technology, and an extensive list of standard features, the 2027 Mercedes-AMG® GLC 53 SUV makes a compelling alternative to the BMW X3 M50 xDrive. Visit our Mercedes-Benz dealership in Los Angeles, CA to learn more about its performance, technology, and available equipment. Our team can also help you explore Mercedes-Benz financing options that fit your needs.