Mercedes-Benz’s popular GLC scooped the Executive SUV trophy in the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa, by the smallest of margins. But a win is a win. This is an excellent all-round luxury SUV with a smooth diesel engine.
Most premium brands now offer road-biased SUVs that combine prestige and practicality in packages that are renowned for superior refinement. The 2024 Best Executive SUV needs to have refined drivetrain performance and -road manners, while its cabin must be comfortable, trimmed in upmarket materials and feature the most up-to-date technology.
The Executive SUV category
This category is guided by both eligibility factors and pillars of success.
Eligibility factors for this category include a list price between R1 000 000 and R1 300 000 at the time of semi-finalist voting (September 1, 2023) to ensure both exclusivity and status. Eligible vehicles in this category must be medium-sized (Audi Q5/Mercedes-Benz GLC size), including their “coupe” variants.
Pillars of success for this category include powertrain technology, luxury, brand strength, design and quality appeal, driving dynamics, as well as space and practicality.
2024 Best Executive SUV: CarsAwards WINNER
Mercedes-Benz GLC220d 4Matic Avantgarde
Mercedes-Benz went to great lengths to ensure that the 2nd-gen GLC would regain its place at the top of the Executive SUV segment. Fresh looks give it standout kerb appeal, while its interior looks futuristic. There’s a great turbodiesel engine under the bonnet, giving the Benz ample performance that doesn’t come at the expense of fuel consumption. Overall, the GLC is a solid offering that deserves high praise.
Read a review of the Mercedes-Benz GLC
Find a Mercedes-Benz GLC for sale on Cars.co.za
RUNNER-UP: BMW X3 xDrive20d M Sport
With the current (recently facelifted) X3, it appears BMW can’t put a “wheel” wrong: it has well-resolved underpinnings, an acclaimed powertrain and a luxurious cabin laced with comfort features and tech. The turbodiesel engine offers a great blend of performance and economy, so it won’t surprise many to learn that the X3 is BMW SA’s best-selling model. It narrowly lost out to the Mercedes-Benz GLC this time round, however.
Read a launch review of the BMW X3
Find a BMW X3 for sale on Cars.co.za
RUNNER-UP: Lexus NX 350h F Sport
The new-gen Lexus NX represents a leap forward from its quirky predecessor. Sharp looks, impeccable build quality and a comprehensive list of standard features make the new NX a compelling prospect. The NX 350h F Sport’s hybrid powertrain is paired with a relaxed ride and drive, and its claimed fuel economy figure is one of the lowest in the segment. Backed by legendary reliability, this Lexus has a lot going for it.
Find a Lexus NX for sale on Cars.co.za
More about the #CarsAwards
The winners of the 2023/24 Cars.co.za Consumer Awards, sponsored by Absa (as well as the recipient of the prestigious Brand of the Year title) were named on 29 February 2024.
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