2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 BMW X5

The 2024 BMW X5, last redesigned in 2019, maintained a timeless appeal, though the M Sport treatment was not universally appreciated, giving it a station wagon-like appearance. The test vehicle featured optional 21-inch “741M” wheels with staggered-width summer tires, which were considered a worthwhile upgrade despite the potential cost of tire replacement. The X5 offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, a turbo-six PHEV powertrain, a turbocharged V8 engine, and a high-performance turbo V8 variant. The xDrive50e M Sport model tested came with Brooklyn Grey paint, 21-inch wheels, and all available equipment packages, with an MSRP of $88,075. The 2024 model received a light styling refresh and introduced the BMW Curved Display, modernizing the interior while retaining high-quality materials and construction.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured subtle aesthetic changes, including sharper headlights and taillights, black fender flares, and chrome grille inserts. The optional AMG Line package added sportiness to the exterior, complemented by optional 21-inch wheels. The GLE coupe, available only in the Mercedes-AMG guise, offered a sportier look with reduced interior space. Inside, the cabin retained a classic Mercedes-Benz feel, with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though not as futuristic as the EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but the Bahia Brown seating surfaces in the test vehicle created a dated look. Choosing a lighter leather color could remedy this design issue.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e PHEV featured new mild-hybrid six-cylinder and V8 engines, with a significant upgrade to its electric range and power output. The PHEV's electric motor, integrated into the eight-speed automatic transmission, and a 19.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack allowed for 38 miles of electric-only driving. The xDrive50e produced 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds. The PHEV's adaptive damping air suspension masked its weight, providing excellent ride quality and handling. During testing, the X5 achieved an average fuel economy of 38.8 mpg over a 95.5-mile drive, showcasing its efficiency and performance.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e, with its new plug-in hybrid powertrain, offered a balance of performance and efficiency. The 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine, combined with an electric motor, delivered 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450e could travel 48 miles on electric power, with a surprise reading of 55 miles after charging. The transition from electric to gas power was seamless, though the Sport mode did not significantly enhance driving dynamics. The 450e featured an 11-kW onboard charger, allowing for a full charge in under three hours on a Level 2 home charger, and could accept a 60-kW DC fast charge for road trips.

The 2024 BMW X5 xDrive50e offered a spacious interior with room for five passengers and a cargo area expanding from 33.1 to 71.2 cubic feet. The split liftgate design provided a convenient seating area but required stretching to access deep cargo. The test vehicle featured BMW's Sensafin artificial leather, standard sport seats, and the Climate Comfort Package, which included 20-way power-adjustable front seats, four-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The X5 no longer offered a third-row seat, requiring a step up to the BMW X7 for that feature.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e excelled in interior luxuries, with standard heated front seats and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a quiet cabin enhanced the driving experience. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space measured 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded. The lack of extendable sun visors was a minor drawback in an otherwise luxurious interior.

The 2024 BMW X5 featured the BMW Curved Display, combining a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel with a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The system ran on BMW Operating System 8.5, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, and over-the-air updates. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, however, struggled with voice recognition, leading to inaccurate navigation results. The available head-up display and augmented video function for navigation were highlights, though the reduction in physical controls was less favorable given the assistant's performance.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch screen. The menu structure was user-friendly, with a touchpad on the center console and voice control via "Hey, Mercedes." The augmented reality navigation system provided helpful overlays, and the off-road page offered detailed information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though connectivity issues with the iPhone were noted. Multiple USB-C ports ensured devices remained charged.

The 2024 BMW X5 introduced the Highway Assistant hands-free driving system, requiring deliberate activation. It performed well in dense or light traffic but could behave unexpectedly in moderate traffic. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance worked effectively, though occasional hard braking occurred. The X5 received high ratings from the IIHS, but lower headlight ratings prevented an award. The NHTSA gave it a four-star overall crash-test rating.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with standard blind-spot monitoring and optional active features in the Driver Assistance Package Plus. The adaptive cruise control was particularly effective. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it top scores in crashworthiness and other categories, with an "Acceptable" headlight rating for models with the Digital Light package.