Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro v BMW X3 xDrive20d v Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC 2016 Comparison

Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro v BMW X3 xDrive20d v Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC
Comparison Test

Mercedes-Benz new GLC appears to lift the mid-size SUV class to exciting new heights... But until now, we've only driven it in isolation. Enter the Audi Q5 and BMW X3, however, and we see the situation quite differently. All three are remarkably competent vehicles with an individual character suited to a range of buyers. Just who those buyers will be, and which car they will prefer, is the subject of this very interesting comparison test.

While on paper these three mid-size luxury SUV protagonists line up as pretty natural competitors, in their quest for the all-important position of best high-end all-rounder in addition to competent family transport, they are actually very different. Yes, different indeed.

On this comparison, we aim to see which represents the best value for money, and which is the most appealing for prospective family buyers.

We took a couple of petrol-powered cars (Audi, Mercedes-Benz) and a diesel (BMW) to examine their useability and adaptability, mimicking the manner in which a potential buyer may investigate drivetrain options.

First, a little local market data to examine just where these cars sit in the domestic marketplace.

The medium prestige SUV sector is flavour of the month locally, and SUV popularity is growing at a significant rate.

Indeed it's showing no signs of slowing with the vehicle type now accounting for around 35.4 per cent of the entire new car market in 2015 – up from less than 32 per cent in 2014.

The three SUVs we are looking at are available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, all mated exclusively to automatic transmissions. For the Audi and the BMW an eight-speed automatic is standard; the Mercedes adds an extra ratio for a total of nine.

All the models on test are equipped with permanent all-wheel drive systems as standard. Each manufacturer offers a three-year / unlimited-kilometre warranty.

Service intervals for the Audi are set at 12 months or 15,000km (whichever comes first), annually or at 25,000km for the Mercedes-Benz, and conditional upon usage for the BMW.

Ticks and specs
The vehicles arrived with levels of spec over and above the standard fare, adding costs and amenity.

From the factory – and without ticking option boxes – the three cars on test offer very similar packaging. Feature levels are comparable, and while we have tossed a turbo-diesel model into the mix, we note that all three manufacturers offer comparable powertrain options for close to the same price.

In regard to dimensions, all three vehicles are well matched with exterior dimensions, kerb weight, cargo space and seating accommodation. Each is around 4600mm long and comparable in width. The Audi Q5 is the heaviest of the bunch, weighing in at 1755kg – 30kg more than the BMW X3 and 20kg up on the Mercedes-Benz GLC.

Flexibility and interior features are an even match across the three as well. Each features five seats with enough space to seat two adults or three pre-teen kids in comfort at the rear.

A flat-folding rear seatback is common to all and augments their comparable levels of cargo space [Audi 540 litres, BMW and Mercedes-Benz 550 litres]. All are accessed via an electrically-operated tailgate.

Pricing brings a small variation, but levels of spec do affect this markedly.

The Q5 was the most affordable SUV on test at $63,210 (plus on-road costs) for the 2.0 TFSI quattro model. The Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC tested here retails from $67,990 (plus options and ORCs). The BMW X3 xDrive20d attracts a $3600 premium, and is listed here from $65,800 (plus ORCs).

BMW X3 xDrive20d
Where the BMW excels is interior fit and finish. It reeks of quality, with a smart, ergonomically sound layout with solid buttons and switches. The X3 certainly offers the traditionalists the sort of interior that reflects its price tag.

The 140kW/400Nm output also represents good performance from a 2.0-litre diesel. And as expected from an oiler, performance is effortless from very low in the rev range, if a little unspectacular from higher revs.

The eight-speed automatic Steptronic transmission offers almost seamless shifts, and suits the diesel perfectly. It's a very well-matched drivetrain that also offers good engine braking – another area in which the diesel BMW tops the pops here.

The X3's chassis balance ensures strong levels of grip. Let's call it 'reassuring' – a word that should carry a good deal of weight for those looking to regularly transport precious family members. It is not, however, 'sporty', feeling the least dynamic of the three SUVs on test.

This is also reflected in the X3's styling, with things like the single exhaust outlet at the rear looking a little outdated against the dual set-ups offered by the other two.

Importantly, BMW's Sport Innovations package now comes as standard and includes the 19-inch wheels, M aerodynamics package, leather steering wheel with gearshift paddles, Nevada leather upholstery, performance control, sport suspension settings, keyless entry, surround view and 8.8-inch navigation shown here. That's a lot of fruit for no extra quid.

That said, the BMW and Audi do not offer as many standard electronic safety features as the Mercedes-Benz, though some are available at additional cost.

The X3 does, however, include adaptive cruise with braking function, lane-departure warning and Connected Drive with intelligent emergency call and digital radio.

We found the BMW's cargo bay easy to access, thanks to an automated tailgate function and sensible load-floor height. It also had a very sensible array of in-cabin storage options, including oddment trays, cup-holders and conveniently placed large storage bins in the front doors.

Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC
Finally Mercedes-Benz has a competitor for the Q5 and X3 in Australia, and this is it – the all-new GLC.

The Benz offers the sportiest ride of the three SUVs on test, which manifests in uncanny surefootedness at the cost of a degree of harshness and very direct feedback.

Those that are looking for an immersive drive will appreciate that element and Mercedes-Benz scores big points for its driving experience from an enthusiast's point of view.

In keeping with that approach, the brake package offers deeply progressive feel. The GLC allows for very deep braking and early application of power – the best of the three in terms of sporting application.

The nine-speed automatic transmission is a highlight, with the engine's 155kW/350Nm maximised at all times. It simply puts you in the power whenever you want. This was a standout among the three cars on test.

In short, the GLC is definitely the 'driver's SUV' of the three, and if versatility coupled with dynamic driving are your thing, the Benz offers the best of both worlds.

Cargo space is adequate and flexible; the 550-litre boot is on par with the X3 and slightly roomier than the Q5. Like the BMW the floor height is sensibly set, allowing easy loading/unloading of heavier items.

While the HDD sat nav in the model shown here is an optional element of the 8.4-inch COMAND infotainment system ($2990), we note that the GLC does come standard with a smaller 7.0-inch screen with Garmin Map Pilot via SD card on the 'unoptioned' model. The COMAND package also adds digital radio.

The COMAND system features a very easy to use search function to locate nearby points of interest, however, on the occasion that we ran low on fuel locally, it attempted to redirect us to two service stations which haven't served petrol in well over five years. A call to Mercedes revealed they are reliant on Australian businesses to keep information updated and that details are uploaded to the vehicle's hard drive at the factory.

It's an interesting issue as we become used to real-time, up-to-date searches in everyday life. It seems somewhat incongruous to be dealing with five-year-old data in a car that's technically brand-new. Once you are aware that information is not accurate, it does have you second guessing the recommendations it makes for you.

The Mercedes does, however, include an impressive array of standard driver assist technologies the other do not, including its DISTRONIC PLUS package, which combines adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist.

The GLC also tops the airbag tally with nine, the Audi offering eight and the BMW just six.

The GLC 250 leads in the active safety stakes too with an outstanding range of advanced technology included as standard, such as Mercedes-Benz's own Driver Assistance Package Plus.

The GLC employs a combination of cameras, ultrasonic radar and all-around sensor systems to monitor the car while it is in traffic to minimise collisions. The system also includes steering assist to provide a gentle hand that keeps the vehicle within marked lanes on the road.

It also features Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Assist to reduce the chance of rear-end collisions with cars or pedestrians while undertaking reversing manoeuvres.

Beyond the technology offerings in the GLC, our judges also felt it had the most comfortable seats of the three SUVs on test – particularly in the back seat where comfort was hands down the best of the three.

Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro
The Audi really takes top honours when it comes to steering. There's a lovely, light touch at the wheel with cleverly varied feedback galore. Top marks there.

The petrol engine delivers 165kW/350Nm – more than adequate on paper, but better than those numbers might suggest when pressed into the real world.

The turbo-petrol unit boasts seamless delivery of power at every opportunity. Put your foot down and the call to power is immediate, fast. The engine is happy to rev and the transmission sorts you through its eight gear ratios with great composure.

Of course, with all three cars you can manage the progression yourself via manual gear selection.

There's also Audi's Drive Select system that tweaks throttle response, gear-shift points and steering feel. There are three programmable modes – Comfort, Dynamic and Efficiency – or you can let the car decide in Auto mode.

The Audi features 18-inch cast aluminium wheels with temporary spare while the BMW offers 19-inch alloys on run-flat tyres. The Mercedes goes larger again with 20-inch alloys and an inflator kit in lieu of the spare wheel.

In our opinion, the tyre size of the Audi would likely last longer than the low-profile options on the BMW and Mercedes-Benz, and be cheaper to replace. The higher-profile rubber would also be more forgiving should the vehicle travel regularly on unsealed roads, likely being less susceptible to puncturing.

Sat nav on the Audi Q5 is standard via a smaller 7.0-inch touch-screen. The graphics look aged in comparison to the excellent displays on both the BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

The Audi Connect system on the Q5 is available as a $2385 option, including Google+ local searches and navigation featuring Google Earth and Street View images, an upgrade to Bang & Olufsen audio, digital radio, adaptive headlights and high-beam assist.

The Audi includes Attention Assist which alerts the driver if their actions at the wheel indicate inattentiveness. Blind-spot monitoring is a $962 option while adaptive cruise control is bundled in a package that also includes autonomous emergency braking (AEB) and active lane-keeping assist for $1193.

There's an old school-feel to the Q5 driving experience. The Audi offers great predictability, but not the same sharpness of the Mercedes. It really is probably the best all-rounder on test, however, and no one is going home from driving the Q5 with a frown. It is remarkably competent.

But that doesn't make it the winner?

The Verdict
So – the big question – which one wins?

This is the place where most comparison tests obfuscate, qualify and water down their verdict to the point that there really isn't a winner at all. Or, more directly, there are no losers.

OK, all of these cars are premium product, with reasonably high levels of spec and price tags to match. So, you are not going home overly disappointed in any one of them. But, you know all that.

Again, it has to be noted that the test cars came with quite a bit of varied add-on fruit and this has to be taken into account when it comes to rigorous evaluation in a comparative context.

The Audi Q5 added a sunroof ($2385) and metallic paint ($1850) for a cost of $67,445 (plus ORCs), while the BMW also added a sunroof ($2308) and metallic paint ($1462) for a total of $67,057 (plus ORCs).

For the Mercedes-Benz the VISION package ($3990, comprising a panoramic roof and head-up display) and COMAND multimedia package ($2990, with satellite-navigation and surround sound audio) were optional, the pair joining metallic paint ($1990) for a total list price of $76,960 (plus ORCs).

We appreciate it's hard to make a decision on value given the difference in list price – and engine types – of the models on test.

However, based on the extra list of options now fitted to the BMW – and the additional safety features included as standard on the Mercedes-Benz – we would have to give either of these the value for money nod over the older but still popular Audi.

All three of the medium prestige SUVs on test receive a five-star ANCAP safety rating, making them about as safe as you could hope for and difficult to separate on the all-important safety factor when it comes to family motoring.

Interior finish is of a high quality across all the cabins, but feels more contemporary in the BMW and Mercedes than the Audi, which frankly is starting to show its age.

But the SUV that impressed us most was, without doubt, the GLC. It is the most accomplished on the road, offering sublime dynamics, very much supported by that fabulous transmission, which lifts it above the others.

It's a combination that not only adds up to a premium experience inside the Merc's luxurious cabin, but on the road where it counts.

2016 Audi Q5 2.0 TFSI quattro pricing and specifications:
Price: $63,210 (plus on-road costs, see text)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 165kW/350Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.9L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 184g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

2016 BMW X3 xDrive20d pricing and specifications:
Price: $65,800 (plus on-road costs, see text)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel
Output: 140kW/400Nm
Transmission: Eight-speed automatic
Fuel: 5.4L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 141g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP

2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC 250 4MATIC pricing and specifications:
Price: $69,990 (plus on-road costs, see text)
Engine: 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol
Output: 155kW/350Nm
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
Fuel: 7.2L/100km (ADR Combined)
CO2: 168g/km (ADR Combined)
Safety Rating: Five-star ANCAP