The Mercedes GLC and Jaguar F-Pace are both available with big V6 diesels, serving up practicality and performance, but which is better?

For most buyers, the Mercedes GLC and Jaguar F-Pace SUVs are at their best when they’re powered by four-cylinder diesel engines. These units offer the best balance of reasonable performance and economy, and they’re cheaper to buy in the first place.

But what if you want to put the sport into your sports utility vehicle? Here we’ve brought the more powerful and refined versions head-to-head. Both cars feature smooth 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesels with over 250bhp. The Jaguar F-Pace 3.0 S is a little larger, but it’s also more expensive to buy, while the Mercedes GLC 350d AMG Line has sporty looks and a torquey V6 under the bonnet.

The Mercedes isn’t as sharp to drive as the F-Pace, because the steering is a bit numb and is on the light side, although you can add weight using the optional driving modes. It’s somewhat artificial, though, and doesn’t give the feeling of agility you get in the Jaguar. The Merc rolls through corners to the degree we’d expect of a big SUV, but that’s because the car is set up more for comfort.

Whether it’s big potholes or speed bumps, the GLC feels smooth and rides well. Bigger bumps are softened off, and at speed the road surface is smoothed out. It goes well with the big engine, and the GLC will suit those who prefer a softer set-up.

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