When it comes to luxury SUVs, there are few more elegant than the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE and the Lexus GX. They are powerful and efficient too, but it's not until you get inside that you get sucked into a way of life you can never return from. On the outside, the Lexus GX is a little bit bigger than the GLE. It is longer and taller, but significantly skinnier than the GLE. This means there is more shoulder room in the GLE, but slightly less head room.
Under the hood, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus take different approaches. The Lexus has a traditional 4.6L V8 engine. It is naturally aspirated and powerful, but it doesn't compare to the 3.0L biturbo V6 in the GLE. With biturbo technology, the GLE is able to produce more power using less displacement and is more efficient than the thirsty V8 at the same time. When you put it all together, you don't' get the roaring V8 sound that you get in the GX. Instead, you get a quiet, smooth ride that will save you money at the pump and time on your way to 60 miles per hour.
2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 400 4MATIC® | VS | 2017 Lexus GX 460 Luxury |
3.0L Biturbo V6 | Engine | 4.6L Biturbo V8 |
329 | Horsepower | 301 |
354 lb-ft | Torque | 329 lb-ft |
7,200 lbs | Towing Capacity | 6,500 lbs |
Generally speaking, there are two reasons to buy a sport-utility vehicle. The first reason is for cargo. Unless you want to drive a mini van, an SUV is the best option for interior cargo capacity. In this category, the GLE shatters the GX by nearly 20 cubic feet! This is a direct result of the wide body on the GLE and a huge advantage for Mercedes-Benz. The other reason you might buy an SUV is to pull a trailer. Again, the GLE comes out ahead, this time by 700 pounds. This may not sound like much, but in most situations, this is the difference between being comfortable and uncomfortable behind the wheel on your way to the lake. Overall, the 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE is a better investment than the Lexus GX in every category. If you have any questions, come to Mercedes-Benz of Arrowhead today to take a test drive!