2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in nine versions in Canada, with prices ranging from $85,400 to $172,400 before fees. Assembled in Alabama, the GLE 350 was the least expensive model, featuring standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. At the higher end, the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe boasted a hand-built twin-turbo V8 engine. The GLE 450, which was the focus of this review, came with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. It featured standard AWD, an Exclusive Trim Package, and additional features like a panoramic sunroof and premium leather. Despite its egg-on-wheels styling, the GLE Coupe's swoopy roofline improved its design. Inside, the GLE 450 offered a luxurious cabin with matte-finish wood, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the Execline trim, presented itself as a luxury crossover. Starting with the base Comfortline trim, the Atlas featured full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a trailer hitch. The Peak Edition added rugged elements like all-terrain tires and blackout trim pieces. The Execline trim upgraded to 21-inch two-tone alloy wheels and R-Line exterior design elements. The Atlas's Pure Grey paint resisted dirt, and the Titan Black upholstery was practical for messy passengers. The Execline trim started at $64,492, making it more affordable than some luxury competitors. Inside, the Atlas offered quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and a 12-inch touchscreen. However, the MIB3 infotainment system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It was equipped with a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLE 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms (7,700 pounds) and included features like Downhill Speed Regulation and a "transparent hood" camera view. However, the standard suspension allowed too much body motion, making it less enjoyable to drive in various conditions. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode and overassisted, while the brakes were grabby in typical driving situations. The GLE 450 achieved a fuel economy of 11.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained the same engine as previous models, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline four-cylinder producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The Atlas's engine was configured for flexibility, with peak torque arriving at 1,600 rpm. While initial acceleration felt adequate, the Atlas settled into a competent rhythm once in motion. The Drive Mode Select system offered Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow options. The Atlas achieved a fuel economy of 10.7 litres per 100 kilometres during testing. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, but the Atlas's ride quality suffered due to its large wheels, transmitting vibrations and harshness into the cabin.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comfortable and quiet ride, with firm front seats featuring "energizing seat kinetics" to reduce fatigue. The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats, and the back seat provided generous legroom and headroom. A third-row seat was an expensive option, adding two extra chairs with USB-C charging ports. The GLE's cargo space measured 943 litres behind the back seat and 2,120 litres with the back seat folded down. Thoughtful storage solutions were present throughout the cabin, including a netted compartment and robust hooks in the cargo area.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The Execline's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage functions. The second row featured captain's chairs that folded flat and tipped forward for easy access to the third row. The third-row seats provided decent leg support, and the cargo capacity was a competitive advantage. The Atlas offered 583 litres of cargo space behind the third row, 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and a total of 2,735 litres. The Atlas provided competitive space across all three rows, making it an excellent choice for hauling people and belongings.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system offered lush graphics, a biometric authentication system, and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system, Dolby Atmos technology, and an augmented-reality video function for navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The Highline trim added a Harman Kardon audio system and a surround-view camera system, while the Execline included a head-up display. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred options.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane keep and centring assist, and other functions. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel rim were noteworthy features. However, the route-based speed-adjustment feature and automated lane-change assist function were inconsistent. The GLE received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for 2025.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for 2025. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard across all trims, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Execline added Park Assist, but the Atlas was easy to maneuver without it. The safety systems performed well during testing, providing reliable assistance without drama.