The QX60 was Infiniti’s first three-row crossover, though when it was launched in 2012, it was referred to as the JX35. Its present title, QX60, dates again to the 2014 mannequin 12 months and Infiniti’s then-updated naming construction for its autos. Since that point, the QX60 has turn out to be considered one of Infiniti’s best-selling fashions, interesting to households who want utility however desire a extra refined and premium cabin.
For the 2026 mannequin 12 months, the QX60 underwent a mid-cycle refresh that included an replace to its powertrain, the introduction of ProPILOT Help 2.1, and a higher-fidelity Klipsch audio system. The outside look is impressed by Infiniti’s Artistry in Movement design language, first seen on the QX Monograph Idea and the manufacturing model of the redesigned QX80. Though smaller than the QX80, the QX60 nonetheless presents seating for seven through a bench seat within the second row.
Just like the QX60, the Mercedes-Benz GLC has turn out to be one of many model’s best-selling fashions, succeeding the GLK in 2015, which arguably introduced a extra subtle aesthetic to the midsize luxurious phase. Now, Mercedes-Benz is ushering the nameplate into a brand new period with its first-ever electrical GLC. Greater than a powertrain swap, it’s a ground-up redesign that units it aside from its inner combustion predecessors.
Whereas one defines the luxurious expertise by an inner combustion engine and NASA-inspired ergonomics, the opposite is seeking to appeal to patrons by electrification and a software-driven “Welcome Dwelling” philosophy. Under, we take a better take a look at how the 2026 Infiniti QX60 stacks up towards the upcoming 2027 electrical Mercedes-Benz GLC by way of energy, area, and know-how.
The beginning worth hole
Practically a $10,000 distinction
When wanting on the preliminary beginning MSRP, there’s a clear distinction between these two luxurious choices:
- 2026 Infiniti QX60: Beginning MSRP of $51,890 (Pure FWD)
- 2027 Electrical Mercedes-Benz GLC: Estimated beginning MSRP of $60,000.
The Infiniti presents a decrease barrier to entry with a beginning worth about $8,000 beneath that of the Mercedes-Benz.
At first look, evaluating a three-row midsize SUV just like the Infiniti QX60 to a two-row midsize SUV just like the GLC would possibly appear to be an uneven match. Within the Mercedes-Benz lineup, the GLE is technically the QX60’s size-equivalent rival. Nevertheless, if you take a look at the worth tags, the narrative adjustments slightly bit.
The Infiniti QX60 presents seven-passenger seating and extra cargo capability for a lot lower than the smaller electrical GLC, which seats 5. By taking a look at these two collectively, we are able to see how a lot luxurious and utility you’ll be able to really get in your cash. For a lot of households, the selection is not all the time between two autos in the identical phase, however quite between elements like rows of seats, fuel versus electrical, beginning MSRP, and private preferences for exterior styling.
Base Trim Engine
2.0-liter turbo inline-4
Base Trim Transmission
9-speed computerized
Base Trim Drivetrain
Entrance-Wheel Drive
Two totally different powertains
Gasoline engine vs. electrified platform
Infiniti eliminated the QX60’s bigger V6 for the 2025 mannequin 12 months, changing it with a 2.0-liter variable compression turbo (VC-Turbo for brief) that creates 268 horsepower and 286 lb-ft. of torque. The turbocharged four-cylinder, related to a nine-speed computerized, is once more the usual engine for the 2026 mannequin 12 months, although Infiniti added new mounting constructions to scale back total engine noise for a quieter journey.
What makes the VC-Turbo distinctive is its on-the-fly compression ratio adjustment for the absolute best energy supply and gasoline economic system. The design contains a multi-link system that raises or lowers the pistons in actual time in response to the driving force’s inputs. The VC-Turbo is smaller and extra compact, translating to extra inside room for the 2026 QX60.
Pure and Luxe trim ranges are normal with all-wheel drive, whereas the Autograph is normal with all-wheel drive. Infiniti backs all the things with a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain guarantee and a four-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper guarantee.
The upcoming 2027 Mercedes-Benz electrical GLC, particularly the GLC 400 4MATIC, takes the high-voltage method with on the spot torque and long-range effectivity as the main target. Its dual-motor setup delivers 483 horsepower, using an 85-kWh battery with silicon-anode chemistry to enhance power density and supply a spread of as much as 342 miles on the WLTP cycle.
The 800-volt structure helps DC quick charging to replenish the battery from 10% to 80% in roughly 22 minutes. Mercedes-Benz offers a four-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper guarantee and an eight-year/100,000-mile battery guarantee.
For those who drive extra miles than the typical individual, Infiniti’s 70,000-mile powertrain protection presents extra respiration room for conventional mechanical parts. Nevertheless, for these making the soar to electrical, particularly for the primary time, the Mercedes-Benz battery guarantee presents peace of thoughts.
Associated
Infiniti QX60 vs. QX65: Why you’re paying extra for fewer seats
Mechanical twins with totally different personalities.
NASA-inspired know-how vs. digital class
Google built-in and AI assistants
The QX60 options Zero Gravity seats, a design influenced by NASA analysis into impartial posture, or the pure place the physique assumes in weightless environments. Because the title suggests, Nissan leveraged ergonomic know-how developed by NASA for astronauts. But, when that idea is moved from a rocket to an SUV, it means much less fatigue whereas driving lengthy distances.
On prolonged commutes, gravity sometimes locations fixed strain on the decrease again and muscle tissues, resulting in the aforementioned fatigue. Through the use of a singular form and 14 totally different strain factors to help the backbone from the pelvis to the chest, these seats assist keep that impartial posture. The outcome for the driving force is a discount in muscular fatigue and improved blood move.
Contained in the Autograph trim particularly, this deal with bodily well-being is paired with open-pore ash wooden and semi-aniline leather-based with kimono-inspired stitching, the latter of which is a favourite function among the many engineers who labored on the QX60 at Infiniti.
Mercedes-Benz counters this with a cabin centered on what may very well be described as digital class. The electrical GLC has an elective 39.1-inch MBUX Hyperscreen that stretches throughout the dashboard, making a command heart for the AI-driven digital assistant.
Past the screens, the inside is designed as a sensory expertise, that includes a panoramic roof that may illuminate 162 stars within the glass at night time. When it comes to sustainability, the GLC presents a segment-first vegan inside licensed by The Vegan Society, paired with acoustic foam within the chassis to scale back highway and wind noise.
Tech innovation inside each fashions focuses on making the driving expertise extra intuitive. The QX60 emphasizes seamless integration with Google built-in, which brings Google Maps and Assistant immediately into the 12.3-inch touchscreen. That is bolstered by ProPILOT Help 2.1 for hands-off freeway driving and a Klipsch audio system.
Mercedes-Benz takes a software-driven method with its MB.OS supercomputer, powering an AI assistant that learns driver habits. For audiophiles, the Burmester 4D system makes use of tactile transducers within the seats to allow you to bodily really feel the bass.
Between the QX60 and the GLC, their cabins cater to very totally different priorities. The Infiniti QX60 is for the driving force who values bodily consolation, because it feels extra like a high-end lounge, with materials high quality and seat ergonomics taking heart stage.
The Mercedes-Benz GLC, nonetheless, appears like a futuristic cockpit constructed for the driving force who desires to be immersed in know-how. For those who prioritize how you’re feeling bodily after a five-hour drive, the Infiniti is almost certainly to win; if you’d like a wow issue each time you begin the automobile, the Mercedes is arguably the one to beat.
Materials
Oxford
Particular Characteristic
Foldable
This 13.5-gallon trunk organizer options compartments to arrange and retailer groceries, sports activities gear, emergency provides, and different day by day necessities.
Cargo area and flexibility
QX60 holds a bonus
Whereas each the QX60 and GLC provide room for his or her homeowners, the Japanese SUV offers extra total utility for bigger teams and their stuff:
2026 Infiniti QX60 cargo area:
- Behind Third Row: 14.5 cubic ft of area for groceries or small luggage.
- Behind Second Row: 41.6 cubic ft with the third row folded flat.
- Most Capability: 75.4 cubic ft of whole quantity with all rear seats stowed.
2027 Mercedes-Benz GLC cargo area:
- Customary Capability: Roughly 20.1 cubic ft behind the second row.
- Most Capability: As much as 61.4 cubic ft with the rear seats folded down.
- Entrance Trunk: Provides an additional 4.5 cubic ft of storage.
The 2027 electrical GLC makes use of its flat battery ground to supply a good 61.4 cubic ft of whole cargo area, a pleasant soar over earlier fuel variations. Nevertheless, it nonetheless can’t compete with the sheer quantity of the QX60.
Though the frunk is a intelligent place to cover a charging cable or a small duffel bag, the QX60 stays the higher software for precise hauling. In case you are packing for a week-long household highway journey, these additional 14 cubic ft within the QX60 are the distinction between all the things becoming inside and having to purchase a roof rack.
QX60 is a powerful various
Selecting between these two is determined by your way of life, however the 2026 Infiniti QX60 emerges because the extra sensible winner for the fashionable household. Whereas the electrical Mercedes-Benz GLC advantages from all the most recent know-how, its two-row configuration and electric-only powertrain should really feel restrictive for many who want most versatility.
The QX60 arguably presents extra of all the things that issues for day by day utility: three rows, numerous cargo area, and a best-in-class 6,000-lbs. towing capability. Once you mix that additional room with the NASA-inspired seats and a fuel engine that does not require a charging cease, the QX60 offers a extra versatile, snug package deal for the lengthy haul.
