Mercedes-Benz GLC vs. Volvo XC60: Complete comparison 2026

Mercedes-Benz GLC represents the epitome of German luxury and precision engineering, which has long set the standards in the premium mid-size SUV segment. On the other hand stands the Volvo XC60, a Scandinavian symbol of maximum safety, minimalist elegance, and innovative technologies. Dive into our detailed comparison, in which we find out which of these sought-after competitors better suits your daily needs and becomes the ideal choice for your next car.

When choosing a premium mid-size SUV, exterior dimensions play a key role, as they directly affect not only interior spaciousness but also daily maneuverability in the city. The second-generation Volvo XC60 and the Mercedes-Benz GLC (represented by both the very popular X253 generation and the newer X254) compete directly on the market for roughly four-year-old used cars, yet they approach overall proportions and space utilization somewhat differently.

While the Swedish Volvo appears slightly more robust at first glance, Mercedes-Benz opts for a slightly more aerodynamic and, in the newer generation, more elongated build.

Width and Height: Robustness vs. Aerodynamics
With a width of 1902 mm, the Volvo XC60 is 12 mm wider than the Mercedes-Benz GLC (1890 mm) and also about 2 centimeters taller (1658 mm compared to 1639–1640 mm). In practice, this means the XC60 offers a slightly airier feel in the head and shoulder area, which taller passengers will appreciate. On the other hand, the slightly narrower and lower Mercedes feels a bit more agile when moving in the tight spaces of underground garages, and its lower silhouette contributes to better aerodynamics on the highway.

Length and Wheelbase: A Game of Millimeters in the Interior
An interesting battle takes place in body length and wheelbase. Across its versions, the Volvo XC60 consistently maintains a length of 4688 mm and a wheelbase of 2865 mm. The older generation Mercedes-Benz GLC (produced until 2022) was slightly shorter at 4655 mm, but with the arrival of the newer generation in 2022, it stretched significantly to 4716 mm. In terms of wheelbase, however, the GLC has the upper hand in all modern versions – values of 2873 to 2888 mm mean that Mercedes managed to push the wheels a bit further into the corners of the body. The result is slightly more generous legroom for rear-seat passengers.

In terms of overall utility, both cars represent an ideal compromise. They are spacious enough for family travel, yet maintain reasonable dimensions for city traffic. While the Volvo is the embodiment of a solid, more robustly built family cruiser, the Mercedes will appeal to drivers who prefer a longer wheelbase and more dynamic proportions at the rear.

When choosing a premium family SUV, luggage compartment volume often plays a key role, as it directly affects the car's daily usability and practicality. Whether you're planning regular weekend trips to the cottage or long family holidays, the difference in trunk capacity can easily mean the line between comfortable packing and having to make unwanted compromises. In this regard, both competitors, although belonging to the same class, differ quite fundamentally and appeal to a slightly different type of user.

If we look at models on the used car market around four years old (around production year 2022), the Mercedes-Benz GLC has a clear upper hand over its Swedish rival. The outgoing generation (code 253) offers a solid 550 liters in the basic configuration, while the newer generation (254), which entered the market during 2022, boasts a superior volume of 620 liters. After folding the rear backrests, you get an impressive 1,600 to 1,680 liters. The second-generation Volvo XC60, on the other hand, is more modest. For standard mild-hybrid engines, it provides 483 liters and 1,410 liters after folding. It's also important to keep in mind that if you opt for the popular plug-in hybrid versions (Recharge T6 and T8), the basic capacity of the Volvo drops to 468 liters (1,395 liters after folding) due to the battery modules being placed under the floor.

In real life, these differences mean that the Mercedes-Benz GLC easily offers generous space for several extra suitcases or a folded pram, which you'll especially appreciate when packing for long trips. While the Volvo XC60's trunk is fully sufficient for weekend shopping and standard family holidays, it requires a bit more discipline and more thoughtful packing for bulkier items. Furthermore, the German SUV pleases with noticeably better utilization of maximum transport capacity when carrying large loads, such as small furniture or sports equipment.

When choosing a premium SUV, towing capacity often plays a key role, especially if you plan to regularly tow a heavy caravan, boat, or horse trailer. Both vehicles offer excellent values in this regard, but a closer look at approximately four-year-old models on the used car market reveals several important differences between the Mercedes-Benz GLC and the Volvo XC60.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a true towing all-rounder and workhorse in this respect. If we look at the extremely popular GLC 220 d diesel engine, it consistently maintains a standard and maximum permitted braked trailer weight of 2,500 kg. This limit applies across the board to previous generation (253) vehicles as well as the latest models (254) from recent years.

The 2nd generation Volvo XC60 (from 2017) lags only slightly behind the Mercedes. Its standard internal combustion and mild-hybrid versions (such as the D4 and D5 diesels, or the newer B4 and B5) can tow 2,300 to 2,400 kg, depending on the specific model year. However, a more significant difference occurs with plug-in hybrid powertrains. If you choose the more eco-friendly Volvo XC60 in T8 Twin Engine versions, or the newer XC60 T6 and T8 Recharge, the maximum braked trailer weight drops to 2,100 to 2,250 kg. The reason is the additional weight of the built-in batteries, which logically reduces the overall capacity for safe towing.

What it means in practice:

• Volvo XC60 (2,100 – 2,400 kg): The capacity is perfectly sufficient for most family caravans and spacious travel trailers for longer holidays. It can also handle the routine transport of smaller boats.
• Mercedes-Benz GLC (2,500 kg): Provides a significant extra performance reserve. It is suitable for horse owners (large two-horse trailer) or for towing heavy equipment where every kilogram counts.
• Unbraked trailer: Both SUVs handle the legislative maximum of 750 kg without hesitation, which is ideal for routine weekend trips for building materials, hauling garden waste, or moving smaller pieces of furniture.

Summary: If maximum towing capacity is your absolute priority and you refuse to compromise, the Mercedes-Benz GLC represents the more robust choice and the clear winner in this discipline. The Volvo XC60 offers a very decent and fully sufficient standard, but if you are considering its popular plug-in hybrid variants, you must account for the reduced limits, which could be insufficient when towing the heaviest trailers.

When choosing a premium SUV approximately four years old (around 2021), you will encounter different powertrain philosophies in these two models, which significantly impacts their character. The Mercedes-Benz GLC (post-facelift X253 generation) and Volvo XC60 (2nd generation) offer a wide range of engines, but with completely different focuses. While the Swedish brand focused fully on electrification and safety – all its engines are at most two-liter four-cylinders with mild-hybrid (B) or plug-in hybrid (Recharge) technology, and the cars' top speed was even software-limited to 180 km/h – the German automaker took the path of immense diversity and raw power. Mercedes retained pure internal combustion engines of large displacements and, alongside unique diesel plug-in hybrids, offered full-blooded six-cylinder diesels and petrol V8 AMG versions. Common to both cars is the emphasis on advanced automatic transmissions; Volvo uses the eight-speed Geartronic system, while Mercedes relies on its own nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic.

Mercedes-Benz GLC Engines (X253 Facelift)

The engine range of the Mercedes GLC from around 2021 is incredibly diverse and will satisfy both economical highway cruisers and sports driving enthusiasts. The foundation consists of proven diesel and petrol four-cylinders (from the GLC 200 d and GLC 200 versions). A completely unique phenomenon on the used car market is the range of plug-in hybrids, where customers could choose not only the classic combination of an electric motor with a petrol unit (GLC 300 e) but also with a highly efficient diesel (GLC 300 de). However, the highlights of the range are models you won't find with the competition – the powerful six-cylinder diesel GLC 400 d and the AMG division models. These were among the last in this class to offer a twin-turbocharged V8 (GLC 63 and 63 S) with a brutal output of over 500 hp. Most versions are paired with 4MATIC all-wheel drive as standard.

Volvo XC60 Engines (2nd Generation)

In the Volvo XC60, you will find a modernized engine range on the used car market that strictly adheres to a two-liter four-cylinder base without any larger-displacement exceptions. All standard versions gradually shed the old T and D designations and switched to mild-hybrid technology denoted by the letter "B". Whether you choose petrol (B4, B5, B6) or diesel (B4, B5) variants, you always get an integrated starter-generator with a 48V system, which helps reduce consumption and smooth out the start-stop system's operation. The top of the Swedish range consists of plug-in hybrids labeled Recharge (T6 and T8), which combine a powerful internal combustion engine with an electric motor located on the rear axle. This creates an intelligent all-wheel-drive system, and with power approaching the 400 hp mark, they do not lag behind German competitors; furthermore, they allow for daily pure electric emission-free commuting.

Which powertrain to choose?

The final evaluation depends heavily on driving style. The Volvo XC60 is the clear choice for rational, safety-oriented drivers and families who prefer an economical, smooth-running, and quiet four-cylinder with hybrid assistance – and for city driving, the plug-in Recharge version makes great sense. Conversely, the Mercedes-Benz GLC is a haven for more demanding motorists who appreciate the best of the internal combustion engine world. If you have thousands of highway kilometers ahead of you, the powerful six-cylinder in the GLC 400 d has no equivalent in the Volvo, and for those seeking pure driving joy with a soundtrack, the V8 AMG is simply irreplaceable.

Choosing the right engine is crucial for long-term satisfaction with the vehicle. Our recommendations are based on real-world experience, performance in everyday traffic, actual fuel consumption, owner feedback, and mechanical reliability. While Mercedes-Benz relies on its proven modular engine family for the GLC, emphasizing longitudinal mounting and a rear-axle preference, the second-generation Volvo XC60 exclusively uses transversely mounted two-liter four-cylinder engines from the Drive-E family. For roughly four-year-old used cars of both brands, it historically and practically makes the most sense to opt for diesel engines, which best suit the character and higher weight of these premium SUVs.

For the Mercedes-Benz GLC, we recommend: 220 d 4MATIC (143 kW / 194 hp)

For models from 2019–2022 (facelifted X253 generation), the two-liter diesel labeled 220 d represents the absolutely ideal choice. In this generation, Mercedes-Benz switched to the new OM654 family of aluminum engines, which is significantly more refined and reliable than the older and noisier OM651 units.

• Why it's the best choice: The 143 kW output and 400 Nm of torque are more than sufficient for very brisk driving, even with a fully loaded vehicle. This engine variant forms the absolute core of the used car market, meaning the best selection of specific units and trouble-free service availability.
• Technical advantages: The engine stands out for its velvety operation, which is perfectly soundproofed in the cabin. It works brilliantly with the standard nine-speed 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which keeps the RPMs low. Real-world combined fuel consumption is an excellent 6.5 liters per 100 km.
• Risks and what to watch out for: Mechanically, the engine is highly durable; however, emission system components—specifically NOx sensors or the AdBlue system pump—can be a weak point. During a test drive, check if the trip computer reports an emission system error. As with all modern diesels, frequent short city trips lead to faster DPF clogging.
• Who it's for: This engine is tailor-made for drivers who cover long distances, frequently use highways, or are looking for an efficient and reliable family SUV with a generous range on a single tank.

For the Volvo XC60, we recommend: B4 Diesel AWD (145 kW / 197 hp)

In the case of the second-generation Volvo XC60—and especially for used cars around four years old (2020–2023 models)—we recommend choosing the B4 Diesel AWD mild-hybrid engine. This gradually replaced the pure internal combustion D4 version in the lineup and brought several user improvements.

• Why it's the best choice: The B4 Diesel version, thanks to its 48V starter-generator, provides incredibly smooth start-stop system operation and helps eliminate turbo lag when pulling away. With 145 kW of power, you get a confident car that makes the most user and economic sense of all available engines for everyday use.
• Technical advantages: The engine is characterized by very smooth pull and solid operating consumption, which in real conditions oscillates around 6.5 to 7.5 liters per 100 km depending on the proportion of city driving. The cooperation with the eight-speed Japanese Aisin automatic transmission is tuned for maximum comfort, and the all-wheel-drive system (utilizing a BorgWarner/Haldex multi-plate clutch) reacts lightning-fast.
• Risks and what to watch out for: Drive-E family engines are more prone to carbon buildup in the intake and EGR valve, especially if the previous owner lugged the engine or drove it mainly for short trips. During inspection, we recommend thoroughly checking the state of the diesel particulate filter (DPF) using diagnostics and reviewing the service history. As effective prevention against all mechanical problems with this engine, we strongly advise shortening the engine oil change interval from the unnecessarily long 30,000 km to a maximum of 15,000 km or 1 year.
• Who it's for: The B4 Diesel AWD engine is perfect for fans of a calmer, more defensive driving style who value a high degree of safety and comfort and need a reliable all-rounder for a combination of suburban commuting and weekend trips to the countryside or mountains.

When choosing a roughly four-year-old premium SUV, one of the key aspects is real-world fuel consumption, which often differs significantly from the laboratory values stated by manufacturers (whether according to older or newer standards). The biggest differences are traditionally found in plug-in hybrids, where paper values often promise consumption even below two liters per hundred kilometers, but practice is usually quite different. For an objective comparison, we therefore rely on real data from users of the established community portal Spritmonitor.de, where hundreds of drivers record their actual refueling over the long term.

Data source: Spritmonitor.de

Several interesting trends emerge from the interpretation of this data. Despite the growing popularity of electrification, traditional diesel engines remain the most economical choice for large and heavy SUVs on longer routes. The entry-level diesel Mercedes-Benz GLC 220 d and the competing Volvo XC60 B4 Diesel easily stay below the 7-liter mark in real-world traffic. It may come as a slight surprise that although Volvo heavily deployed mild-hybrid technology (the "B" designation) in the relevant model years, it does not bring any dramatic fuel savings compared to Mercedes' classic diesel drive, and both cars perform very similarly. For petrol engines, consumption naturally rises towards the 8.5 to 9-liter mark, which is the standard tax for high curb weight and all-wheel drive. Plug-in hybrids (PHEV) are a chapter of their own. Although official materials promise consumption approaching zero for the GLC 300 e and XC60 T6 Recharge models, the real average is between 5.5 and 6 liters. The reason is that once the battery is depleted, the vehicle pulls the heavy electrical system using only the power of the internal combustion engine.

For a typical buyer of a used premium SUV, clear recommendations follow. If you spend a lot of time on highways, regularly drive long distances, or are simply a driver who watches the budget, the entry-level diesel engines (220 d and B4 Diesel) will be the unrivaled best choice for you in terms of operating costs. If, on the other hand, you are a typical city driver who also has the option to charge the vehicle daily at home or at work, plug-in hybrid versions make huge sense and will help you cut fuel bills to an absolute minimum. Purely petrol versions, on the other hand, can be recommended more to those who have a lower annual mileage, appreciate absolute refinement, and do not seek more complex plug-in hybrid systems.

In conclusion, fuel consumption itself is unlikely to be the main deciding factor between the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60 models. Both manufacturers offer very similar efficiency in comparable engines, and real differences are only in the range of tenths of a liter. Your final choice should therefore depend more on preferred design, overall comfort, driving feel, or the range of specific safety features.

When searching for a used premium SUV with an average age of around four years (primarily vehicles from 2021 and 2022), both models represent very strong players in the used car market. In this age category, you encounter the Volvo XC60 after a slight facelift (which brought Google-based infotainment) and the Mercedes-Benz GLC, which in 2022 was at the turning point between the extremely popular outgoing X253 generation and the incoming, technologically more advanced X254 generation.

Volvo XC60: Rich equipment and a more attractive price tag

On the used car market, the Volvo XC60 from 2021 to 2022 is generally the more budget-friendly option. Prices for the cheapest units with higher motorway mileage and basic mild-hybrid engines (usually the B4 diesel) start at approximately €31,000. The sweet spot of the range consists of very well-maintained cars with a price tag between €35,000 and €43,000. For this money, you most often get the Momentum or the more luxurious Inscription trim levels.

Compared to its German competition, the Swedish brand initially faces slightly faster depreciation. For a buyer of a four-year-old used car, however, this is a huge advantage – for less money, you often get much more generous optional equipment that cost the first owner thousands of euros (for example, premium Harman Kardon audio systems or top-of-the-line Bowers & Wilkins). The price ceiling is represented by the sought-after plug-in hybrids (T6 and T8 Recharge) in the R-Design sport package, which consistently range from €49,000 to €55,000.

Mercedes-Benz GLC: Stable value and a confident price

The automaker with the three-pointed star, on the other hand, dictates much more confident terms in the used car market, and the GLC maintains its residual value with iron-clad regularity. Four-year-old cars start just below €37,000, but this usually only covers basic diesel variants (200 d) with sparser equipment and higher mileage.

If you are aiming for the ideal combination – the popular, more powerful 300 d diesel, 4MATIC all-wheel drive, and the attractive AMG Line visual package – you will be looking for cars in the price range of €41,000 to €53,000. More expensive models, such as the efficient 300 de plug-in hybrids or used cars from the very beginning of the brand-new X254 generation's production (launched in late 2022), often approach or slightly exceed €62,000.

Overview of approximate prices for cars approx. 4 years old (2021-2022)

Prices are based on current market conditions, engine choice, and documented service history.

Purchase and operating costs

When choosing, also focus on long-term maintenance costs:

• Premium comes at a price: With Mercedes, you pay extra for higher residual value and premium technologies. However, if the car is equipped with the optional AIRMATIC air suspension, be prepared for the fact that any out-of-warranty repairs can significantly drain your wallet.
• Nordic cleverness: Volvo offers an excellent price-to-equipment ratio, and its chassis in standard versions with conventional shock absorbers is generally easier and cheaper to maintain in the long run. However, the complexity of the Recharge hybrid units is on par with its German rival in the service shop.

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLC and Volvo XC60 earned the maximum five-star rating in Euro NCAP safety tests. However, when evaluating used vehicles, it is essential to consider the broader context, particularly the year of testing. Euro NCAP test methodology is constantly evolving and becoming more stringent; while older tests focused primarily on structural integrity during impact, newer protocols require advanced assistance systems and the ability to handle complex traffic situations. For this reason, percentage scores from different years cannot be directly compared as absolute values.

The Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent Euro NCAP crash tests in 2022. It was therefore evaluated according to very strict modern standards, which already fully include testing with a new mobile barrier for frontal impacts, advanced cyclist detection, and automatic braking tests in demanding intersection scenarios. The GLC excelled in these modern tests. A highly above-average score of 84% for safety assistance systems shows that the vehicle possesses the latest level of active safety. This is all supported by very solid protection for adults (92%) and children (90%). The results thus guarantee that the car's electronics and passive safety correspond to today's traffic conditions without compromise.

The Volvo XC60 was tested by Euro NCAP in 2017, when it completely dominated thanks to its results and even became the safest car of that year across all classes. At the time, it achieved an almost unbelievable 98% for adult protection and 95% for assistance systems, being one of the first cars with a 100% success rate in autonomous city braking tests. In the context of the used car market, however, it must be taken into account that a test according to the 2017 methodology would formally have expired by now. Simply put, the car was not tested against newer simulations for avoiding intersection collisions or according to the latest pedestrian protection criteria. Despite this time gap, the XC60 remains one of the most robust vehicles you can buy in terms of both passive and active safety.

Although the Volvo XC60 can boast exceptionally high percentages from its testing year and its rigid body was ahead of its time, the Mercedes-Benz GLC offers an overall more modern and comprehensive safety package. For a buyer of a used car around four years old, this means that with the Mercedes, they are getting assistance technologies and systems that were certified according to current, significantly stricter European standards.

In addition to standard equipment, each of the models offers several unique features that can be decisive for a customer when choosing a used car. Both models go beyond common standards, and each approaches premium added value in a completely distinctive way.

Mercedes-Benz GLC: Technological Dominance and First-Class Comfort

The Stuttgart SUV is a benchmark in the field of innovative assistants and personalization options. Its equipment focuses primarily on isolating the occupants from external noise and providing the driver with maximum technological support.

• Infotainment and Connectivity: The heart of the interior is the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) system, famous for its advanced voice control that responds to natural speech after the greeting "Hey Mercedes". A premium feature is also the augmented reality navigation, which projects directional arrows directly onto the live image from the front camera on the central display.
• Chassis and Driving Comfort: One of the GLC's greatest competitive advantages is the option to pay extra for the AIR BODY CONTROL multi-chamber air suspension (or the AIRMATIC system). This ensures a literally smooth ride even on broken roads and allows for changing the vehicle's ground clearance. In newer models on the used car market, an optional rear-axle steering also appears, which radically simplifies city parking.
• Headlights and Electronics: MULTIBEAM LED headlight technology (and DIGITAL LIGHT in the latest generations) offers fantastic resolution for masking oncoming vehicles. The PRE-SAFE safety system is also top-notch, capable of tightening seat belts, closing windows, and emitting a sound signal to protect the occupants' hearing in the event of an imminent accident.
• Sporting Accents: The highly sought-after AMG Line package changes the car's appearance with a more aggressive radiator grille (often with a diamond pattern), specific bumpers, a sports steering wheel with touch surfaces, and stiffer damper settings.
• Powertrains: Those interested in plug-in hybrids (PHEV) will appreciate that these versions within the premium class often stand out not only for their high electric-only range but also for the possibility of fast direct current (DC) charging, which significantly facilitates daily operation.

Volvo XC60: Scandinavian Elegance and Total Digital Integration

The Swedish representative bets on a different philosophy. Its goal is to calm the mind, offer minimalist luxury without an excess of buttons, and provide the best possible passive and active safety.

• Infotainment with Google Ecosystem: Models from approximately 2021 onwards received a revolutionary system built on the Android Automotive platform. It has Google Maps, Google Assistant, and the Play Store integrated directly into it. This brings an unrivaled and smooth real-time navigation experience without the need for smartphone mirroring via cable.
• Smart Design and Unique Details: The exterior is dominated by the unmistakable LED headlights with the "Thor's Hammer" motif. Inside, in luxury trim levels (Inscription or Ultimate), you will find a gear selector made of solid genuine crystal, supplied to Volvo by the Swedish glass manufacturer Orrefors.
• Audio and Seat Ergonomics: For music lovers, the optional Bowers & Wilkins audio system with "Tweeter-on-Top" technology and the iconic acoustic mode of the Gothenburg Concert Hall is highly valued on the used car market. Volvo developed the anatomical seats themselves in cooperation with orthopedists, making them among the most comfortable on the automotive market even in basic versions.
• Climate and Occupant Health: Advanced Air Cleaner technology can continuously monitor air quality and, using advanced ionization, filter out up to 95% of PM2.5 fine dust particles from the cabin. This represents a huge benefit for allergy sufferers or families traveling with small children.
• Sporting Editions and Assistance Systems: The top of the range is the plug-in hybrid version in the Polestar Engineered trim, which brings a real treat for enthusiasts – manually adjustable Öhlins dampers and massive Akebono brakes with gold calipers. For all versions without exception, the City Safety assistant package with perfect prediction of collisions with animals and pedestrians and the highly reliable Pilot Assist semi-autonomous driving system is standard.

Mercedes-Benz GLC is an ideal choice for drivers looking for a prestigious premium SUV with a perfect balance between luxurious comfort and confident driving dynamics. The wide range of excellent engines and top-tier technology will appeal even to very demanding buyers for whom the higher purchase price is not an obstacle.

The Volvo XC60 will appeal to buyers who prioritize absolute safety, maximum tranquility on board, and minimalist style over sporty performance. It is a perfect family SUV for relaxed long-distance travel, which also offers a significantly better price-to-equipment ratio as a four-year-old used car.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and expert databases, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that buyers of roughly four-year-old used cars should watch out for. To avoid unpleasant surprises, a detailed independent inspection of the car's technical condition is always essential.

Mercedes-Benz GLC (X253 facelift)
In the updated version of the X253 generation (from 2019 onwards), faults of a predominantly electronic nature appear, but occasionally the chassis or emission systems in diesel units can also cause trouble.

• Electronics and infotainment: The MBUX onboard system occasionally experiences software glitches, screen freezing, or slow responses. A software update at a service center usually resolves this problem successfully. There are also complaints about parking camera failures or false error messages from assistance systems.
• Engine and exhaust system: In diesel engines (especially the 2.0-liter OM654), one of the most common faults is the failure of NOx sensors, which can lead to AdBlue system error messages and, in extreme cases, prevent the engine from starting. In gasoline engines (M264), problems with increased oil consumption or turbocharger faults occasionally occur.
• Transmission: The nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic can jerk slightly or downshift roughly when cold in some vehicles. A software update often helps, but for used cars with over 80,000 km, preventive maintenance in the form of a transmission oil change is strongly recommended.
• Chassis and brakes: A common ailment is premature wear of the brake pads, partly due to the vehicle's higher weight. On uneven surfaces, knocking sounds may be heard from the front axle, which usually indicate worn lower control arm bushings. If the vehicle is equipped with Airmatic air suspension, it is necessary to check the tightness of the air springs and the smooth operation of the compressor on units with higher mileage.

Volvo XC60 (2nd generation, SPA platform)
Even though the Swedish SUV is synonymous with safety and robustness, its more complex architecture and modern technology occasionally take their toll on both internal combustion and mild-hybrid engines.

• Electronics and infotainment: The Sensus onboard system screen suffers from slow startups and occasional freezing. Owners of newer mild-hybrid versions (engines labeled B) quite often complain about issues with complex energy management, specifically the rapid draining of the 12V battery, which negatively affects the start-stop system and can lead to starting problems.
• Engine and exhaust system: In diesel engines (D4, D5), the diesel particulate filter (DPF) very often becomes clogged, especially if the car is used primarily for short trips in the city. This can lead to a loss of power and the need for forced regeneration at a service center.
• Transmission: The eight-speed automatic from Aisin can start to jerk unpleasantly or hesitate when downshifting at lower speeds at higher mileages (around 100,000 km). Here too, the strict recommendation to not neglect regular transmission oil change intervals applies.
• Chassis and brakes: A typical specific of the second generation Volvo XC60 is the very fast and uneven wear of the rear brake pads, which owners often replace much earlier than the front ones. This is due to the more aggressive settings of the assistance systems and traction control. On the optional air suspension, air springs may start to leak or the compressor may fail after exceeding 100,000 km.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key. Here are some specific points to focus on for these two popular premium SUVs. Furthermore, a professional independent technical car inspection will give you peace of mind before the purchase and can reveal hidden defects that an average driver might easily overlook.

When choosing a Mercedes-Benz GLC:

• Air Body Control check: If the car is equipped with the optional air suspension, focus on its condition. Check if any side of the car sags towards the ground after standing for a long time. During the test drive, try changing the ride height – the movement must be smooth and the compressor should not be excessively noisy. A thorough physical inspection of the car on a lift should then reveal any leaks in the bellows, the replacement of which is very expensive.
• 9G-Tronic automatic transmission behavior: The nine-speed automatic must shift perfectly smoothly and without delays. During the drive, focus on the transmission's behavior when braking and slowly approaching an intersection. If you feel jerking when downshifting from third to second or first gear, it could be outdated software, or in the worse case, a worn mechatronics unit.
• Noise from the 4MATIC all-wheel drive: Take the car to an empty car park and try driving slowly in circles with the steering wheel at full lock in both directions. Vibrations, jerking, or significant humming from the front axle or transfer case points to mechanical wear or neglected oil changes in the differentials.
• Condition of diesel engines and the AdBlue system: For the extremely popular four-cylinder diesels (OM654 engine generation), look for SCR system error messages in the trip computer. Cars driven mainly on short city routes suffer from AdBlue injector clogging due to crystallised urea and frequent diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging.
• MBUX infotainment response: On post-facelift models, test the smoothness of the MBUX multimedia system immediately after starting. Occasional navigation freezes or parking camera image dropouts can often be resolved by a software update at an authorised service centre, but it is important to know about this before signing the contract.

When choosing a Volvo XC60:

• Condition of the plug-in hybrid system (Recharge/T8): If you are considering buying a PHEV version, we recommend arranging a detailed used car inspection focused on the health of the traction battery and an estimate of the real electric range. Additionally, listen carefully to the Electric Rear Axle Drive (ERAD) during the drive. Dull thuds or metallic clicking when the electric motor engages or disengages indicate wear on the rear module, which usually means a replacement costing thousands of euros.
• Engine pull and the PowerPulse hose (D5 diesel engines): More powerful D5 diesel versions use PowerPulse technology, which uses compressed air to speed up turbocharger response. However, the compressor pressure hose of this system often cracks. You can tell during a test drive if the car lacks pull from low revs and suffers from a noticeable "turbo lag".
• Leaking through the panoramic window and moisture in the interior: Carefully visually inspect the headliner around the sunroof and feel under the floor mats in the footwells. Clogged drainage channels cause rainwater to leak into the cabin, which can irreversibly damage expensive control electronics located right under the car floor.
• Speed and stability of the on-board system: The older Sensus interface (typically until 2021) is characterised by a somewhat longer loading time immediately after starting the vehicle, which is a normal feature. However, if you are choosing a newer model with the Google Android Automotive system (from model year 2022), check the stability of the internet connection and the smoothness of the applications. Early versions of Android in Volvos often suffered from the entire centre display freezing and require an update.
• Wear on front axle control arms and ball joints: The XC60 is a very heavy SUV, which puts enormous pressure on suspension components. When driving slowly over speed bumps, potholes, or cobblestones, roll down the windows and listen for squeaking or dull thuds from the front axle. These sounds indicate worn bushings or ball joints.

Sources: ADAC, forbes.cz, auto.cz, autoexpress.cz, fdrive.cz, portalridice.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.