Mercedes-AMG GLC43 vs BMW X5

What's the difference?

If you’re looking for a performance SUV, I want to introduce you to the recently launched Mercedes-AMG GLC43. The GLC43 has a new engine, new outputs and sees some major changes to its underpinnings and tech.

It competes against the BMW X3 M40i, Audi SQ5 and Porsche Macan S; all exceptional sports performance SUVs with cult followings.

Fans will be enthralled by the GLC43's new engine but I'm testing this new variant to see if it has what it takes to woo families, as well.

The BMW X5 is a leading contender in the ‘Over $70K Large SUV’ division of Australia’s new car market, which is a hotly-contested segment boasting 15 marques and 25 models.

The X5 has hit an enduring sweet spot with Aussie buyers in terms of size, performance and price. BMW prefers to call it a Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) as distinct from its Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) rivals.

Clearly, any word association with a utility is something BMW Group Australia wants to avoid after recently launching its latest X5 range, which brings numerous enhancements including design revisions, increased standard equipment, refreshed powertrains and more.

We were entrusted with the digital ‘Comfort Access’ key to one of the latest X5s, to understand from a family car perspective why this model range enjoys such enduring popularity with prestige SUV (sorry, SAV) buyers.