2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 presented itself as a more rugged alternative to the CX-5, with significant dimensional differences that included being lower, wider, and longer. Its design was fresh and modern, with broad-shouldered proportions highlighted by square wheel arches and faux air vents. The Meridian Edition, in particular, emphasized an active-lifestyle image with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior was well-crafted, featuring a BMW-like infotainment screen and impressive material quality, although it fell short of Mazda's upscale aspirations with standard half-leatherette seats and a manually adjustable passenger seat.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, facelifted for 2024, maintained a distinct identity within the Mercedes SUV lineup, with a rounded profile and a wide stance. The GLE Coupe models, like the test vehicle, had a fastback-style roofline that created odd proportions but adhered to the brand's design orthodoxy. Inside, the GLE offered a luxurious experience with unique interior colours, chunky air vents, and a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The interior felt upscale and special, with features like the optional Burmester audio system enhancing the overall experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was equipped with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, available in naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged variant delivered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on 93-octane gasoline. All models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, with driving modes including Normal, Sport, and Off-road. The CX-50's handling was more aligned with its segment peers than the sporty CX-5, and the Meridian Edition's all-terrain tires added noise and limited grip.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp and 369 lb-ft, while the GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp and 479 lb-ft. The AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S performance models delivered 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively. The GLE 63 S, in particular, offered exhilarating acceleration and a classic V8 soundtrack. Despite its impressive powertrains, the GLE felt larger than it was, even with AMG chassis upgrades.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 offered similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom but more legroom. It provided 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 1,595 litres with them folded. While it trailed competitors in cargo space, the CX-50 had a power liftgate for easier access. The interior layout was sensible, with adequate storage space and a substantial shifter and rotary infotainment controller on the centre console.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row and three-row configurations, with competitive headroom and slightly more second-row legroom than rivals. It offered 894 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,790 litres with all seats folded. The GLE's centre console provided reasonable storage space, and its maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms ensured it could handle demanding tasks.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with higher trims offering wireless phone charging and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. While the interface required adjustment, it was straightforward once acclimated, though tech-savvy buyers might find it lacking in excitement.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The MBUX interface included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Multiple access methods, including voice recognition, simplified interaction. The AMG GLE 63 S Coupe featured additional drive modes and settings, enhancing the driving experience. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function added practicality for rough terrain.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention tech. However, it received lower scores for nighttime pedestrian detection and standard headlights. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like a 360-degree camera system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, with some available in the optional Driver Assistance Package. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a 360-degree camera system. The GLE received a 2025 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, although its front-crash prevention tech had room for improvement.