2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43
On paper, the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive wins on $1,050 less, 5 MPG better, 59 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $1,050 price gap, 393 vs 416 hp, 27 vs 22 MPG.
The X3 M50 xDrive leads on $1,050 less, 5 MPG better. The GLC AMG GLC 43 leads on 23 more hp. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $66,500 | $67,550 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 393 hp | 416 hp |
| Torque | 428 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 25 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 26 |
| Combined MPG | 27 | 22 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.2 gal | 17.4 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,150/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,535 lbs | 4,553 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.8" | 113.1" |
| Length | 187.2" | 187.0" |
| Width | 75.6" | 75.6" |
| Height | 65.4" | 64.4" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43?
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive starts at $66,500, $1,050 less than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 at $67,550. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $19/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive?
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,050 in your pocket and the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $353/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 is the stronger pick when you prefer the Mercedes-Benz approach to the compact SUV segment.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43?
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive rates 27 combined MPG, 5 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 produces 416 hp, 23 more than the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive at 393 hp. The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive also leads in torque at 428 lb-ft vs 369 lb-ft. The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo.
Is the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive bigger than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43?
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive is 0.2″ longer at 187.2″ vs 187.0″. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 has a 0.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: BMW trims, BMW X3 trims, Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz GLC trims
The X3–GLC Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the X3 and GLC compare. The $1,050 gap is about $19/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 has 23 more hp (416 vs 393), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive adds 59 more lb-ft of torque (428 vs 369), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive saves roughly $353/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,765. The 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive when you want to keep $1,050 in your pocket and the 2026 BMW X3 M50 xDrive covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC AMG GLC 43 when you prefer the Mercedes-Benz approach to the compact SUV segment. At $19/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with BMW or Mercedes-Benz or any dealership.