RDX vs GLC
Acura versus Mercedes-Benz: the RDX and the GLC go after the same compact luxury suv buyer. Surprisingly little separates them. A handful of specs move the needle; the rest are rounding errors.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance Trade-off
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance4.4
- Engine & Performance4.0
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The RDX has 17 hp more power
This one is close enough that other factors could outweigh it, but on paper the RDX leads with 272 hp to 255 hp. Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
-
The GLC has 15 lb-ft more torque
Only a little separates them: 295 lb-ft on the GLC, 280 lb-ft on the RDX. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
Trade-off
The RDX and the GLC split the engine & performance section, the RDX with 17 hp more power and the GLC with 15 lb-ft more torque. The takeaway: engine & performance is a matter of preference rather than a clear verdict.
Total system output
RDX: 272 hp GLC: 255 hp More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
Torque
RDX: 280 lb-ft GLC: 295 lb-ft Electrified powertrains deliver torque instantly, so compare torque figures alongside the powertrain type.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
In the space & practicality category, the RDX and the GLC land in almost the same place. Both cover space & practicality well enough that other priorities should break the tie.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Swap one for the other and you’d lose nothing on off-road & towing. Net result on off-road & towing: level.
Safety & Tech
For safety & tech, the spec sheet lists components and formats rather than figures we can rank. The table shows what the RDX and the GLC each bring.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | RDX | GLC |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas | Gas (48V mild hybrid) |
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 2.0L turbo I4 |
| Total system output | 272 hp (winner) | 255 hp |
| Torque | 280 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 9-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | N/A (not specified) | RWD (4MATIC AWD available) |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | RDX | GLC |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | N/A (not specified) | 27 mpg Most efficient in class |
| Fuel economy (city) | N/A (not specified) | 24 mpg Best city economy |
| Fuel economy (highway) | N/A (not specified) | 32 mpg Best highway economy |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | RDX | GLC |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Cargo (behind rear seats) | 29.5 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
| Cargo (seats folded) | 58.9 cu ft | N/A (not specified) |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | RDX | GLC |
|---|---|---|
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | RDX | GLC |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 4 yr / 50,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the RDX if…
- you merge, overtake or climb hills with a full load (272 hp vs 255 hp)
- you’re loyal to Acura and happy with it
Choose the GLC if…
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (295 lb-ft vs 280 lb-ft of torque)
- you’re comfortable with how Mercedes-Benz does things
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the RDX or the GLC?
Neither wins outright. Choose the RDX if performance matters most, or the GLC if pulling power does.
Executive Summary
I don’t have a favorite brand in this fight between the RDX and the GLC. I just have opinions about the numbers. To me, the standout is that the RDX offers 17 hp more power. In fairness to the GLC, 15 lb-ft more torque is a genuine strength.
I’d steer performance fans toward the RDX and pulling power fans toward the GLC.
My pick: it depends. Go for the RDX if performance comes first for you, or the GLC if pulling power does.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.