BMW v Mercedes v Audi v Volvo: BEST premium SUV review

If you’re in the market for a high-end plug-in hybrid SUV, which should you go for - a Mercedes GLC, BMW X3, Audi Q5 or Volvo XC60? Well, Mat’s got his hands on each one, and he’s about to put them all head-to-head to find out which is the #1 plug-in hybrid SUV you can get your hands on!

So let’s see how they all compare. Starting with the Volvo, it’s one of the oldest cars here - but it can still keep up with these more modern plug-in hybrids! Since 2017 it’s only had a couple of minor updates made to the design and interior, but it still has a classy design, with chrome trim on the outside helping it to stand out. The interior is pretty minimalist, although controlling most features through the touchscreen infotainment system can be a bit annoying. It also has new digital dials, but they’re a bit bland.

The XC60 is powered by a 2-litre turbo petrol engine and an electric motor, the T8 is the most powerful car in this line-up, being able to produce 455hp. An entry-level XC60 will set you back £47,650.

Next up we have the Audi Q5. It may come with exceedingly obvious fake exhaust pipes, but it’s still one of the best-looking cars here. Just like the Volvo it comes with chrome trim on the outside, and all-in-all it looks pretty smart. The interior is well built as well, with soft-touch materials found throughout the cabin. Thankfully it comes with physical buttons for the climate control, and the digital dials are probably the best in this entire line-up.

The Audi Q5 is equipped with a 2-litre turbo petrol engine & an electric motor, and this 50 TFSI e edition can produce 299hp. The Audi Q5 range is the most affordable, too, with it coming in at a price of £46,785.

Next up it’s the BMW. Up front, it comes with a pretty huge grille (which will come as no surprise to our BMW fanboys & girls), but we think it makes it’s all a bit much. After all, it’s only a family-friendly SUV, so it could perhaps do with being toned down a bit. Thankfully the quality of the cabin more than makes up for this, with high-quality materials found throughout, and a pretty high-tech infotainment screen which can be controlled with a dial on the centre console.

The X3 is powered by a 2-litre turbo petrol and an electric motor, but it’s the least powerful hybrid here, with the xDrive 30e only able to produce 292hp. The BMW X3 range kicks off at £47,295.

Then finally we have the newest car in this line-up, the Mercedes GLC. Just like the Audi it has super prominent fake exhausts, but we still think it’s one of the best-looking cars here. It has a great side profile, and the elements of chrome trim and the running boards along the side enhance the look. It’s a positive story on the inside, too, with a large infotainment screen in the centre of the dash and a large digital dial display. You’ll find soft-touch materials throughout the cabin as well.

It’s powered by a (you guessed it…) 2-litre turbo petrol with an electric motor, and these combine to produce 320hp. It’ll come as no surprise that the GLC is also the most expensive car here, being the newest, with the range starting from £52,880.

But which do you think is the best - will the all-new GLC come out on top? Or does the classic XC60 stand a chance? You’ll need to stick with Mat and see for yourself!

Chapters
00:00 Intro
00:23 Price
01:15 Design
03:45 Interior
07:17 Back Seats
11:30 Boot
13:47 Power
14:43 0-60mph
16:34 Volvo XC60 Driving
18:31 Audi Q5 Driving
21:13 BMW X3 Driving
23:59 Mercedes GLC Driving
27:04 Verdict

[maxbrainbox]

For the Q5, it aren't exhausts but HDMI ports!

[rahuljacobgeorge]

I would go for the xc60 simply because of its sleek and unique design both interior and exterior and premium built quality with no hard plastics .Also the drive and performance seems superbly aided by the plush and luxurious cabins .

[manoz]

I would take the XC60 in White with Black trim and Black wheels!

[steveshepherd]

I’ve had the BMW X3 M40D for the last 3 years, should have changed it this year but I’ve kept it. 0 to 60 in 4.8 s, 42mpg on a long run, decent luggage space and I still like it as much as the day i got it👌

[thanoskaranatsios]

One of your best videos because of the balance, the logical and timely transitions and all the valuable information! Even if it is 27min which is not exactly YouTube trend, is justified covering 4 great competitor cars addressing a big potential market segment!

[jennidroke]

We have a 2021 GLC 300. It is powered by gas only. We are very pleased with the overall performance and design of the vehicle. Ours is loaded with every option available from Mercedes which made it a little pricey. We owned a 2019 model previously without many options. After having a more base model, the loaded model is a pleasure to own. We have owned 3 Mercedes SUV models. Very pleased with their quality, design and performance.

[ChakibTsouli]

The collision detection at least in my XC40 Recharge only triggers when you're going head on against an obstacle in front of you and I believe it takes into account your steering angle, that's why it didn't trigger. It knew at that angle you wouldn't collide with the truck otherwise it'll trigger at every corner.

[TheGamingNorwegian]

Saying this as a PHEV owner, the Mercedes is seriously impressive purely because of its EV range. 130km of electric range (probably 110km-ish in the real world) is amazing for a PHEV.

[ldarm]

Mate, still the best new car review channel, love the honesty. I'd have the Volvo

[Austa]

I was waiting for this one!! Have x3 but thinking to change, thank you!!

[nomoreheroes]

Back to back tests are so much better than individual reviews IMO - easier for Mat to make direct comparisons and better for consumers picking a new car. Mat's cynicism about PHEVs is misplaced though, I live in London and all the PHEVs near me seem to be plugged in.

[fluketennis]

I’ve been using my xc90 PHEV for couple of years and still love it.

[SedemNyatusah]

Love you, Mat Watson, been watching since 3million subs from Ghana.

[GoodFoodShared]

What a in-depth review! No one else compares to Matt for the details.

[xZeroOffical]

I'd chose the Volvo anytime. It's just sleek, and seat comfort is what really matters, especially on long trips. Interior is just beautifully blend together, and I prefer it over any of these cars.
Volovos safety is also unmatched. But then, I might be biased because I'm Volvo owner. 😅

[DrDajom]

Volvo all the way, it's so minimalistic and I care about the safety of my family. :-)

[EmKevin]

I'll take the Volvo, seat comfort at its best.

[aykutkose]

Just bought an Q5 55tfsi E. Added horsepower really makes the car come alive. Unfortunately choose the adaptive air suspension and it is back at the dealer again

[Spoolingturbski]

Surprised the Volvo didn’t rank higher. It’s an unbelievably nice car.

[Daniel-Condurachi]

I agree entirely with you... I would choose the cars in the same order. I am quite happy with my current plug-in hybrid. But for sure in a few years I'll change it with one of those from the 2nd hand market, probably the Mercedes GLC300e. The Lexus NX plug-in hybrid is missing from the comparison and it's as good as the Audi in my opinion.