The 2026 GLC 300 SUV vs the 2026 GLE 350 SUV in performance

The GLC 300 SUV is powered by a 2 L inline-4 turbo engine with mild hybrid drive. This engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The engine can output up to 255 horsepower, and the car can accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour in 5.9 seconds.

The GLE 350 SUV is similarly equipped with a 2 L inline-4 turbo engine with mild hybrid drive and a 9-speed automatic transmission. It even produces the same 255 horsepower. Where it differs is acceleration, which takes an extra second, putting it at 6.9 seconds to accelerate from zero to sixty miles per hour.

The 2026 GLC 300 SUV vs the 2026 GLE 350 SUV in seating

The GLE 300 SUV seats up to five passengers. The GLE 350 SUV also comes standard with five passenger seating. However, it also offers the option to upgrade to seven passenger seating, which isn’t an option on the 300 SUV. This is one key difference between these two models: the GLE 350 SUV can be a three-row SUV, while the GLC 300 SUV only has two rows of seating on all configurations.

The 2026 GLC 300 SUV vs the 2026 GLE 350 SUV in cargo

Another key difference between these models is cargo capacity. Both of these SUVs provide plenty of room for the average driver, but if you’re looking to maximize your space, the GLE 350 SUV offers more than the GLC 300 SUV. The GLC 300 SUV offers up to 56.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The GLE 350 SUV has substantially more, with up to 74.9 cubic feet of cargo space.

Which of these Mercedes-Benz SUVs should you drive?

The choice between these two models comes down to size and acceleration. Some people prefer a smaller SUV because they tend to get better gas mileage and are easier to maneuver. If that sounds like you, choose the GLC 300 SUV. If, on the other hand, you prefer more space, choose the GLE 350 SUV.