I considered the GLC300 and X1 and X3. Reliability and maintenance concerns vs. performance+features pushed me to the CX5 GT-R.
Then you factor in that most tests show the CX5 GTr/SIg at 67-68dB at 70mph cruise. I believe the X3 is SLIGHTLY quieter, and the GLC SLIGHTLY louder. In short, they are all 3 in about the same arena, here.
Then comes the fact that the CX5 GT-R had all of the features I wanted, and some the BMW/GLC didn't have at least in 2019 (HUD).
To get a GLC300 or a X3 that competes with a CX5 GT-R, you would spend about $50K. Then there is the maintenance and reliability aspect...
These compact luxury SUVs have ascended to the top of their brands' sales charts, but one is more satisfying than the other.
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Look at the 5-60 times. The only reason the GLC300 does well 0-60 is how they launched it. In EVERY SCENARIO other than a launch, the CX5 is faster. THe reason these handle better is the tires are wider and the tires on the Mazda are TRASH! Replace them. My LX25's handle so much better than the Toyo A36's. I am curious for Tire Rack to evaluate t he A36's so I can extrapolate how much more lateral adhesion I have, but it IS noticeable. I wouldn't be surprised if it's pulling 0.84ish now on the skidpad.
Long and short of it, I am very pleased with my CX5 GT-R compared to the Euro options, and unless you are buying ///M, S-Line, or AMG, I think the Euro SUV's are poor purchases.
From its excellent road manners to its perfect reliability, Mazda's upscale CX-5 served us well.
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