Lexus NX 62·Mercedes-Benz GLC 51on the MotiveGrid Score·Lexus NX about $7,690 less over 5 years
The verdict
The 2026 Lexus NX is the cheaper one to own — roughly $7,690 less over five years, mostly because it holds its value better. The Mercedes-Benz GLC counters with more towing capacity (3,500 vs 2,000 lbs).
Go with the Lexus NX for the better long-term value; consider the Mercedes-Benz GLC if you prioritize more towing capacity.
Last updated July 2026 · National-average estimates
Lexus NX vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC
MotiveGrid scores, key specs, and five-year cost comparison: 2026 Lexus NX versus 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC.
Metric
Lexus NX
Mercedes-Benz GLC
MotiveGrid Score
62
51
Cost of Ownership
59
49
Powertrain
65
51
Driver Assistance
32
0
Livability
38
34
Safety
78
92
5-Year Cost to Own
$58,087
$65,776
Depreciation (5-yr)
$21,337
$24,527
Fuel / Energy (5-yr)
$8,339
$9,889
Insurance (5-yr)
$15,735
$16,785
Maintenance (5-yr)
$3,095
$4,080
Tires (5-yr)
$1,750
$1,750
Financing (5-yr)
$6,646
$7,455
Registration (5-yr)
$1,185
$1,290
Starting Price
$44,175
$49,550
Horsepower
240 hp
255 hp
MPG (combined)
40 mpg
28 mpg
Cargo volume
22.7 cu ft
21.9 cu ft
Seating
5
5
Towing capacity
2,000 lbs
3,500 lbs
Drivetrain
FWD
RWD
Hybrid
2026$44,175
MSRP
$44,175
Mo · 5yr
$968
$58,087 / 5 years
Best for long-term savings
Gas
2026$49,550
MSRP
$49,550
Mo · 5yr
$1,096
$65,776 / 5 years
Best for families
VS
01 · The MotiveGrid Score
Five measured pillars, weighted into one score.
Cost, Powertrain, Driver Assistance, Livability, and Safety — each scored against its class, then combined into a single MotiveGrid Score. Built by our engineering team and benchmarked against independent sources like NHTSA, IIHS, and CarEdge. How it’s calculated →
Lexus NX scores higher overall.
Lexus NX
0
/ 100
Mercedes-Benz GLC
0
/ 100
CostFive-year all-in cost to own, benchmarked against the class median.
NX
59
GLC
49
Winner: NX
$7,690 cheaper / 5 yrs
PowertrainEnergy efficiency paired with long-term ownership confidence.
NX
65
GLC
51
Winner: NX
+14 pts
Good fuel economy▲
Driver AssistHighway driving support, parking convenience, and hands-free automation.
NX
32
GLC
0
Winner: NX
+32 pts
LivabilityPassenger space, cargo room, and everyday maneuverability.
NX
38
GLC
34
Winner: NX
+4 pts
SafetyCrash-test protection plus standard crash-avoidance features.
Lexus NX is the better pick for long-term ownership — about $7,690 cheaper over 5 years with stronger fundamentals on running cost.
Mercedes-Benz GLC still wins if your priority is best for families.
Daily commuter
Lexus NX
Lowest energy cost per mile
Budget-focused
Lexus NX
Cheapest to own across 5 years
Family hauler
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Stronger safety
Highway driver
Lexus NX
Better adaptive cruise + lane keep
City driver
Lexus NX
Easiest to park and maneuver in tight spots
03
Cost of Ownership
Monthly running costs — national baseline.
Adjust for your situation
State
Miles/yr15,000
Loan rate7%
Down payment20%
Lexus NX
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$968
$58,087 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$968/mo
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Monthly · 5-Year avg
$1,096
$65,776 total / 5 years
Total · monthly$1,096/mo
04
Frequently asked questions
Lexus NX comes out about $7,690 cheaper over 5 years on running costs (depreciation, fuel/energy, insurance, maintenance, financing). The gap shifts with your state, annual miles, and loan rate — use the "Adjust for your situation" panel above.
