2026 BMW IX3 against Mercedes-Benz GLC EV design, technology, interior and performance compared

When two of the biggest luxury brands in Germany start all-electric versions of their best-selling SUVs, the comparisons are practically self-itself. The Mercedes-Benz GLC EV (or, as Merc calls it, the GLC will debut with EQ technology exactly two days after the electrified X3 from BMW over the timing. Both fight for the same piece of the premium-EV market. But put these two competitors Next to each other, and the differences in philosophy become as clear as the similarities.

Outer design

GLC EV against IX3 in frontGLC EV against IX3 in front

If you believe that the GLC EV and IX3 have a similar mood, do not imagine things. Both companies welcome their vehicles with exactly the same phrasing: “dawn of a new era”. I am not sure whether this is ironic or has just fulfilled the fastest prophecy. Regardless of this, both did a good job to update their SUV with the volume sale for a future that focuses on electrification. While the IX3 really looks like nothing else from the brand, the GLC feels more evolutionary than revolutionary. In my opinion, the radiator grille is not an immediate winner, but overall the front end of the car as a Mercedes is very recognizable. Even if it is mainly due to the absolutely massive three -point star. AMG GT XX looks pretty good in the back, completely new lighting signature, which almost pays homage to the concept. We also dig horizontal orientation and think that the electrical GLC only looks a bit more sporty from behind.

However, the sportiness falls a bit flat if you compare the two side by side. The GLC EV is longer than 51 mm (51 mm) than the BMW IX3. His less square roof line (and the Hofmeister -Knick of the BMW IX3) means that it still has a little egg shape from the EQS models. But overall we think that the GLC looks good. Although the IX3 is undoubtedly the more modern design. This is either a professional or a fraud depending on who they are.

Interior design

GLC EV against IX3 interiorGLC EV against IX3 interior

Mercedes-Benz does a big deal with the hypersire of the electrical GLC. We will get involved a little later, but it is impossible to talk about the interior without mentioning the screen because it is the entire dashboard. In our opinion, we are not a good look, but admittedly it is a much more smooth appearance than the integration of the current generation. The steering wheel – new for the model, along with the seats – looks more traditional than the IX3. It also looks really good, bridging the gap between thickness and manageability and compliance with a rather familiar design. Mercedes also offers an optional vegan package for the interior. The brand also confirmed MB-Tex and leather options. The BMW offers a hair more cargo space. In all stowed seats, it delivers 61.8 cubic feet loading space, while the GLC provides it with 61.4 CU-FT.

Performance

GLC EV against IX3 pageGLC EV against IX3 page

Sorry Merc fans. The GLC 400, for which Mercedes has published information, is estimated to receive 713 kilometers of range based on European WLTP standards. It is the IX3 with an 805 kilometer rating. The IX3 has a larger battery of 108.7 kWh usable compared to Mercs 94 kWh. BMW says that the IX3 can add 372 kilometers of range in ten minutes. MBS GLC adds in 303 kilometers. Fortunately the Mercedes does Offer a little more horsepower and receive 483 PS/360 kW compared to the 463 hp of the IX3/345 kW.

technology

GLC EV against IX3 backGLC EV against IX3 back

Okay, let’s return to this hyper screen. It measures 39.1 inches, just under 100 cm. In the meantime, BMW has gone the opposite route and has held onto a smaller screen (it is still quite large, 17.9 inches) and a panoramic view exhibition that lives on the base of the windshield. BMW’s focus on “Shy Tech” really shows here and the electrical GLC is much more about its devices on your face. Be assured that both offer pretty much the same amenities. Voice commands, navigation, car play/Android Auto and AI-powered search are available. Remarkably, in contrast to the panoramic view display, the hyperscreen is not standard equipment.

Mercedes-Benz has not published prices for GLC EV. But we think that, according to the car manufacturer’s IX3 information page, it must be very close to IX3 50 XDRIVE prices that begin “below 60,000 US dollars”. We could see some buyers select the GLC EV for his appearance and the well -known screen layout. However, overcoming a not inhumane range and an indictment could prove to be difficult. Overall, the comparison of the IX3 with the GLC proves with the EQ technology that these two are as always a close rival.