2025 Acura MDX vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Acura MDX underwent subtle exterior updates, including a new grille, revised front bumper, and darkened headlights and taillights, which enhanced its sporty and performance-oriented appearance. Most versions received new wheel designs, adding to the SUV's visual appeal. Inside, the MDX saw more significant changes with the introduction of a new touchscreen infotainment system, replacing the previous touchpad interface and providing additional storage space. The seats from the previous MDX Type S model were incorporated into the new MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec, while the Type S received a new seat design. Acura also improved cabin quietness with added sound insulation and acoustic laminated window glass.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a luxurious and elegantly detailed interior, featuring matte-finish wood, metallic accents, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The GLE 450 model, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, provided a comfortable and quiet cabin experience. The exterior design, however, was less impressive, with the standard GLE body style appearing bland compared to the more stylish GLE Coupe. Despite this, the GLE's interior craftsmanship and quality materials made it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Acura MDX positioned itself as a performance-oriented luxury SUV, with the Type S model featuring a turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Most buyers opted for the standard 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 290 hp and 267 lb-ft of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. The MDX's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided confident handling, while various driving modes allowed for tailored driving experiences. Fuel economy was a consideration, with most trims rated at 11.2 L/100 km in combined driving, though real-world testing showed higher consumption.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid system, generated 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLE offered a range of driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, and boasted a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. However, the standard suspension allowed for excessive body motion, impacting the driving experience. The GLE's sport braking system performed well during spirited driving, but the transmission's delayed downshifts and the engine's uneven power delivery at low speeds detracted from its overall performance.

The 2025 Acura MDX Platinum Elite A-Spec trim featured 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage programs, wrapped in luxurious leather. The second row offered flexibility with a three-person bench or individual bucket seats, while the third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,690 litres available with the second and third rows folded. In-cabin storage was adequate, with a new centre console providing additional space.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered firm yet comfortable front seats with heating and "energizing seat kinetics" to reduce fatigue. The back seat provided ample legroom and headroom, though the seating position felt low. An optional third-row seat added versatility, while the cargo area offered 943 litres of space behind the back seat and up to 2,120 litres with the seats folded. Thoughtful storage solutions and a power rear liftgate enhanced the GLE's practicality.

The 2025 Acura MDX introduced a new 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Alexa and Google Built-in, eliminating the previous touchpad interface. The system offered a natural and intuitive user experience, though SiriusXM required streaming via a smartphone app. The MDX also featured a Bang & Olufsen audio system, a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, and a 10.5-inch head-up display. The Platinum Elite A-Spec and Type S Ultra trims included a surround-view camera system for added convenience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays, offering lush graphics and a range of configurations. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras. The GLE's infotainment system provided a seamless and engaging user experience.

The 2025 Acura MDX benefited from hardware upgrades to its AcuraWatch driver assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX Type S Ultra added front cross-traffic alert and evasive steering warning. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel rim were notable features. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though the NHTSA had not yet rated it.