But with overlapping price tags and varying priorities like performance, comfort, or efficiency, choosing the right one isn't straightforward.
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But with overlapping price tags and varying priorities like performance, comfort, or efficiency, choosing the right one isn't straightforward.
In a country where subcompact and compact SUVs dominate urban roads and value often outweighs vanity, do luxury compact SUVs still make sense? For many, they strike a fine balance, offering the elevated comfort, premium features, and performance of high-end vehicles without the bulk (or cost) of full-size luxury SUVs.
This segment includes heavy-hitters like the Mercedes-Benz GLC, BMW X3, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, and Lexus NX, each catering to affluent buyers looking for a blend of badge appeal, daily usability, and modern tech. But with overlapping price tags and varying priorities like performance, comfort, or efficiency, choosing the right one isn't straightforward.
When it comes to size, the Volvo XC60 sits comfortably in the middle of the segment. At 4,708 mm in length and 1,902 mm in width, it is not the longest or widest SUV here, but it does hold its own. The BMW X3 is the longest, while the GLC has the longest wheelbase at 2,888 mm, which translates into slightly better interior room, especially in the second row.
Volvo XC60 | Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 | Lexus NX | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Length | 4708 mm | 4716 mm | 4755 mm | 4682 mm | 4660 mm |
Width | 1902 mm | 1890 mm | 1920 mm | 1893 mm | 1865 mm |
Height | 1653 mm | 1640 mm | 1660 mm | 1655 mm | 1670 mm |
Wheelbase | 2865 mm | 2888 mm | 2865 mm | 2827 mm | 2690 mm |
Ground Clearance | 230 mm | 201 mm | 204 mm | 200 mm | 195 mm |
Boot Space | 483L | 640L | 570L | 520L | 520L |
The XC60’s 2,865 mm wheelbase matches the X3 but lags behind the GLC. In terms of boot space, the XC60’s 483 litres is the smallest, falling well short of the GLC’s 640 litres, X3’s 570 litres, and even the Q5’s 520 litres. The Lexus NX, despite being the smallest in wheelbase, offers better luggage space than the XC60.
The 2025 XC60 facelift continues with a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol mild hybrid powertrain that makes 246 bhp and 360 Nm. It is mated to an 8-speed torque converter and powers all four wheels. While refined and smooth, this setup isn’t the most exciting or versatile.
Volvo XC60 | Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 | Lexus NX | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1969 cc | 1999 cc/ 1993 cc | 1998 cc/ 1995 cc | 1984 cc | 2487 cc + hybrid |
Max Power | 247 bhp | 254 bhp (+23 bhp)/ 194 bhp (23 bhp) | 187 bhp (18 bhp)/ 194 bhp (18 bhp) | 261 bhp | 240 bhp |
Peak Torque | 360 Nm | 400 Nm/ 440 Nm | 310 Nm/ 400 Nm | 370 Nm | 239 Nm |
Transmission | 8-Speed AT | 9-Speed AT | 8-Speed AT | 7-Speed DCT | CVT |
Top Speed | 180 kmph | 219 kmph | 250 kmph | 240 kmph | 200 kmph |
Claimed 0-100 kmph | 6.9 seconds | 6.2 seconds/ 8 seconds | 7.8 seconds/ 7.7 seconds | 6.1 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
Mercedes-Benz GLC offers both petrol and diesel options with higher power and torque figures (up to 254 bhp/ 400 Nm) and a quicker 0-100 kmph time of 6.2 seconds for the petrol. Audi Q5 is the quickest here with a 6.1-second sprint, courtesy of its 261 bhp petrol engine. The BMW X3 is the most versatile, offering both petrol and diesel options. The Lexus NX stands out as the only one with a strong hybrid setup, combining 240 bhp (combined output) with better fuel efficiency, but a slower 0-100 kmph time of 7.7 seconds.
The 2025 Volvo XC60 comes in a single fully loaded 'Ultra' trim, and despite being the most minimalistic in layout, it's packed with features:
The GLC brings a touch of S-Class-like luxury into the midsize space:
The X3 prioritises driving involvement but does come with a healthy feature set:
Audi has struck a balance between tradition and tech with the Q5:
The Lexus NX takes a different route, blending Japanese craftsmanship with hybrid efficiency:
While all its rivals offer similar high-end features, Volvo’s tech suite is among the most intuitive and minimalistic, especially for those who prefer clean design and fewer distractions. The Lexus NX wins on hybrid efficiency and luxury ambience, while the GLC and Q5 edge ahead in infotainment sophistication and cabin polish. The X3 remains driver-focused but feels slightly dated in interface design compared to the Volvo.
While the XC60 has only one fully loaded trim, it is well-priced for what it offers. It doesn’t require buyers to stretch into higher variants to get the best features, which is often the case with rivals.
Models | Volvo XC60 | Mercedes-Benz GLC | BMW X3 | Audi Q5 | Lexus NX |
Price | ₹71.90 lakh | ₹78.30 lakh | ₹75.8-₹77.8 lakh | ₹68-₹73.79 lakh | ₹68.02-₹74.98 lakh |
On paper, the 2025 Volvo XC60 facelift makes a strong case as a comfort-focused, tech-rich, and value-packed SUV. It’s not the most versatile or the fastest, but it delivers a refined luxury experience at a competitive price.
If you’re not seeking diesel or hybrid power, and want a well-rounded luxury SUV that doesn’t break the bank, the XC60 emerges as a smart, sensible choice. That said, buyers seeking diesel flexibility, hybrid efficiency, or a more performance-oriented drive might be better served by the X3, GLC, or NX, depending on their specific needs.
Volvo XC60 vs Mercedes-Benz GLC vs BMW X3 vs Audi Q5 vs Lexus NX: Prices & Specs Compared
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