In partnership with Auto Trader
Used test: Audi Q5 vs Land Rover Discovery Sport vs Mercedes GLC: verdict
You can save almost £10,000 on all of these prestige SUVs if you buy them at two years old, but which one should you choose?...
Our verdict
The Mercedes GLC tips out first. It’s a great large SUV with plenty of plus points, especially its 2.0-litre diesel engine, which boasts strong performance and good fuel economy. However, it misses the mark when it comes to ride and overall comfort.
The Land Rover Discovery Sport shouldn’t be overlooked, though. It’s good to drive, refined and practical. If you shop for the right one, it even gives you seven seats – something you won't find in the Audi and Mercedes. If it weren’t for its poor reliability and sluggish performance it could even have won this test.
So that leaves the Audi Q5 as our pick here. As a package, it beats the other two thanks to its extra refinement, eager handling and superior interior.
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1st – Audi Q5 40 TDI quattro S line
For Sharp handling; quiet while cruising; plush interior; large boot
Against Slightly firm ride; steering could be more involving; interior space isn’t quite best in class
What Car? rating 5 stars out of 5
Audi Q5 review >>
Find a used Audi Q5 for sale >>
2nd – Land Rover Discovery Sport D180 AWD SE
For Only car out of the three to offer seven seats; good driving position; roomy inside; comfortable ride
Against Sub-par performance; poor reliability; competitors handle better
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Land Rover Discovery Sport review >>
Find a used Land Rover Discovery Sport for sale >>
3rd – Mercedes GLC 220d 4Matic Sport
For Strongest acceleration; frugal engine; slightly cheaper than the other two
Against Mixed ride quality; seats aren’t as comfortable as rivals; smallest boot of the three
What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5
Mercedes GLC review >>
Find a used Mercedes GLC for sale >>
Specifications: Audi Q5 40 TDI Quattro S line
Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 187bhp
Torque 295lb ft
0-60mph 8.2sec
Top speed 137mph
Fuel economy 38.2mpg (official average)
CO2 emissions 146g/km
Specifications: Land Rover Discovery Sport D180 AWD SE
Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 178bhp
Torque 317lb ft
0-60mph 10.8sec
Top speed 125mph
Fuel economy 39.6mpg (official average)
CO2 emissions 155g/km
Specifications: Mercedes GLC 220d 4MATIC Sport
Engine size 2.0-litre diesel
Power 191bhp
Torque 295lb ft
0-60mph 7.4sec
Top speed 134mph
Fuel economy 47.9mpg (Official average)
CO2 emissions 137g/km
