BMW X3 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC (2026)
BMW X3 (₹76.20 Lakh – ₹78.20 Lakh) and Mercedes-Benz GLC (₹77.00 Lakh – ₹99.85 Lakh) go head-to-head in the luxury suv space. Here is how they compare on the numbers (October 2026).
- The BMW X3 is more affordable — it starts ₹0.80 Lakh lower than the Mercedes-Benz GLC.
- The Mercedes-Benz GLC is the more powerful car, with 415 bhp against null bhp.
Specification Comparison
Shortlisting a third car? See the full three-way comparison →
BMW X3 in short
The new-generation X3 launched in India in January 2025, and per BMW India's own pricing the 30 xDrive M Sport Pro petrol costs ₹76.20 lakh while the xDrive20d diesel costs ₹78.20 lakh — unusually, the diesel is the pricier car. Both are locally assembled with xDrive all-wheel drive standard. A cheaper xDrive20 petrol (around ₹69.90 lakh) exists but our sources conflict on its exact price, so it is held from the table. Rivals are the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Audi Q5.
Full X3 prices & variants →Mercedes-Benz GLC in short
The GLC is Mercedes-Benz India's best-selling SUV, and its formula is straightforward: petrol and diesel at the same ₹77.00 lakh price, 4MATIC all-wheel drive standard, and a 620-litre boot that beats most SUVs a class above. The AMG GLC 43 Coupé at ₹99.85 lakh adds a 421 PS performance flagship to the range. It fights the BMW X3 and Audi Q5 in the heart of the luxury SUV market.
Full GLC prices & variants →Frequently Asked Questions
Which is cheaper: X3 or GLC?
The BMW X3 is more affordable — it starts ₹0.80 Lakh lower than the Mercedes-Benz GLC. (Ex-showroom prices, October 2026.)
X3 vs GLC — which is safer?
NCAP ratings: BMW X3 — not yet tested; Mercedes-Benz GLC — not yet tested.
Should I buy the X3 or the GLC?
The BMW X3 is more affordable — it starts ₹0.80 Lakh lower than the Mercedes-Benz GLC. The Mercedes-Benz GLC is the more powerful car, with 415 bhp against null bhp. Beyond the numbers, shortlist by test-driving both — ride quality and dealer experience differ by city.