2024 Mazda CX-90 vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 was a testament to Mazda's ambition to elevate its brand into the luxury segment. With its elegant design, the CX-90 borrowed the sophisticated styling cues from its smaller siblings, the CX-30 and CX-5, and expanded them into a more imposing form. The SUV's exterior featured a prominent grille, wide-set front end, and large wheels that ranged from 18 to 21 inches, all of which contributed to its commanding presence. Inside, the top-tier models of the CX-90 boasted interiors that rivalled luxury brands, with brown suede upholstery, wood inlays, and matte black plastic accents that exuded sophistication. Despite the range of trims, all models benefited from Mazda's stylish design language and comfortable layout, making the CX-90 a compelling option for those seeking luxury without the premium price tag.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 and facelifted in 2024, maintained its distinct identity within the Mercedes lineup. Its design featured a more rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille that gave it a wide stance. The GLE Coupe models, however, presented a unique styling with a fastback-style roofline that some found less appealing. Inside, the GLE offered a range of interior colours, including the exclusive Yacht Blue, and featured upscale elements like chunky air vents, mesh speaker grilles, and ambient lighting. While the GLE's interior felt luxurious, its exterior design was more polarizing, appealing to those who appreciated Mercedes' traditional styling.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 introduced two new powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option, marking a significant departure from the outgoing CX-9. The CX-90's turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a mild-hybrid system delivered 280 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque in its base form, while the upgraded version in the GT-P and Signature trims offered an impressive 340 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. All models came with all-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The CX-90 Signature trim featured three driving modes—Normal, Sport, and Off-Road—allowing drivers to tailor their experience. The PHEV model combined a 2.5-litre engine with a 17.8-kWh battery, producing 323 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of 42 kilometres. Both powertrains provided exceptional handling, with the CX-90's larger platform and double-wishbone front suspension contributing to its agility.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six engine with 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four engine with electric assist, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, with an 80-kilometre electric range. The AMG GLE 53 4Matic+ and AMG GLE 63 S 4Matic+ performance models offered even more power, with the latter boasting a 603-horsepower twin-turbo V8 engine. While the GLE's powertrains impressed, its overall size and weight made it feel less nimble than competitors, even with AMG enhancements.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 offered a variety of seating configurations, with lower trims accommodating eight passengers and mid-level trims featuring captain's chairs for seven. The Turbo Signature trim provided an exclusive six-seat layout. Cargo space varied slightly depending on the seating arrangement, with a maximum of 2,129 litres available. While the CX-90 improved upon the CX-9's capacity, it still fell short compared to rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander. However, the CX-90's interior featured clever storage solutions, comfortable seating, and high-quality materials, making it a comfortable choice for families.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row, five-seat, and three-row, seven-seat configurations, though specific third-row measurements were not provided. The GLE offered competitive headroom and legroom, with slightly more space for second-row passengers compared to rivals. Cargo space behind the second row measured 894 litres, with a total of 1,790 litres available with all seats folded. The GLE's centre console provided ample storage for small items, and its maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms made it a practical choice for those needing to tow heavy loads.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 focused on minimizing distractions with its Mazda Connect infotainment system, which used a rotary control knob and hard buttons instead of a touchscreen. While the intention was to enhance safety, the system's quirks often led to frustration. However, the CX-90's personalization software, which used facial recognition to adjust settings, was a standout feature. Standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with wireless functionality in higher trims, provided familiar and user-friendly interfaces.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a pair of 12.3-inch screens, creating a seamless digital experience. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with built-in navigation. Multiple access points, including a touchpad and steering wheel controls, offered flexibility, though they could be overwhelming. The GLE's voice recognition system was a highlight, simplifying interactions. AMG models added drive modes and customizable settings, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2024 Mazda CX-90 came equipped with the i-Activsense suite of advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. The top-spec Signature trim added cruising and traffic support, providing a hands-on driver assistance system. While crash test ratings were not available, the CX-90 was expected to perform well based on the CX-9's accolades.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive array of driver-assist features, with some, like adaptive cruise control, available in the optional Driver Assistance Package. Standard features included forward collision warning, blind spot monitoring, and the Pre-Safe system. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech received mixed ratings.