There are plenty of luxury SUVs on the market. It can be a pain to settle on the right one that suits your needs, so it's only fair to compare the models for you to understand easily. At Hendrick Motors of Charlotte, we compared the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV model against the 2021 Audi Q5, to show you why the new GLC beats the Q5. The comparison of our Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. Audi Q5 looks at performance and engine characteristics, interior design, exterior features, and safety technologies. Let's take a look at both of these models!

Performance, Transmission, & Engine

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2021 GLC is a standout SUV in both overall performance and engine specs, and the Hendrick Motors of Charlotte team is confident that you’ll find the GLC more suited to your needs. The turbo GLC 300 is ambitious and powerful, which means you’ll be driving confidently and passionately on North Carolina roads. There are several powertrain options offered between the Audi Q5 and the GLC, and there’s never been a better time to learn about what they are and how they may be best suited for you! The GLC crossover delivers 255 horsepower which is perfect for drivers who want to drive with confidence! If you’re interested in learning more about the power-packed punch of a GLC, schedule an appointment at our Charlotte dealership.  The Mercedes-Benz GLC also offers an incredible 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, DYNAMIC SELECT (multimode drive program selector), and 4MATIC® all-wheel-drive capability, for a smooth, bold, and astonishing experience. 

2021 Audi Q5

For the Audi Q5, there is a disadvantage that it only comes with one powertrain option, making it more difficult for shoppers to learn about the different advantages of various powertrains. All models include the standard 261-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder, with a seven-speed automatic transmission and quattro® all-wheel drive. The Mercedes-Benz GLC, on the other hand, has a more standard powerful powertrain option with a turbocharged four-cylinder which is perfect for drivers wanting that quick acceleration. 

 

Interior Design

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

With enough room for five passengers, you can all enjoy a variety of woods made of natural grain, authentic aluminum switches, and a selection of hand-fitted upholstery featured in the luxury Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV. The standard GLC has 19.4 cubic feet of room behind the back row and 56.5 cubic feet of space. There is 64-color LED ambient lighting available to allow you to customize the cabin whenever you would like. Some standard features include:

  • Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system 

  • 10.25-inch touch screen

  • Bluetooth

  • Apple CarPlay

  • Android Auto

  • HD Radio

  • Two USB ports.

2021 Audi Q5

Unlike the Mercedes-Benz GLC, the design for the Audi Q5 doesn't feel as luxurious for the price. Comparing it to the GLC, there is also less cargo room, with only 53.7 cubic feet in total when the back seats are folded down. Standard interior technology includes:

  • Wifi hotspot
  • Android Auto
  • Apple CarPlay
  • 10.1-inch screen combined with infotainment system 
Exterior Features 

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2021 GLC is an eye-catching, luxury-looking crossover. It can come in options of 18, 19, or 20-inch wheels. There are also 12 elegant exterior color options available for this model:

  • Black

  • Polar White

  • Obsidian Black Metallic 

  • Silver Metallic

  • Mojave Silver Metallic

  • And More 

2021 Audi Q5

 

Compared to the GLC crossover, the Q5 only has a choice between 18 and 19-inch wheels. There are 11 color options available for this Audi model:

  • Azores Green
  • Brilliant Black
  • Manhattan Gray
  • Mythos Black
  • Moonlight Blue
  • And More

Safety Technology 

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

Both crossovers provide great safety features to protect you and your family while out on the road. At Hendrick Motors of Charlotte, our main priority is to keep you and your family safe. A set of standard and flexible driver-assistance functionality is also offered by the Mercedes SUV. Main safety characteristics include:

  • Standard forward-collision warning and automated emergency braking

  • Available lane-departure warning and lane-keeping assist

  • Available adaptive cruise control

  • Active Brake Assist

  • Rear-Cross Traffic Alert

  • Blindspot® Assist with Exit Warning Assist

  • Rearview Camera

  • Anti-lock Braking System

2021 Audi Q5

Standard safety features that are included in the Audi Q5 are:

  • Standard automated emergency braking with forward-collision warning
  • Standard blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
  • Available adaptive cruise control
Now the question is which is a better SUV, GLC or Q5? The new Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV wins out the Q5 interior luxury design, overall performance, exterior characteristics, and security technology, looking at just the facts alone. The key difference between them is their overall performance when comparing these distinct models. More engines, power, comfort, and overall better fuel economy are offered by the new GLC. All of these factors guide us to choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV as the winner. Browse our latest inventory of GLC SUVs and contact us with any questions. Learn more about the latest GLC features, and visit Hendrick Motors of Charlotte soon!
Categories: Research, New Inventory