2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs. BMW X5

Standard Safety Systems

Both Mercedes-Benz and BMW are pioneers in vehicle safety, so it’s no surprise that both the 2023 GLE and the BMW X5 come with a litany of driver-assistance features that help inspire confidence. They provide brand-specific versions of the following standard safety systems:

• Active Brake Assist
• Blind Spot Assist
• Adaptive Highbeam Assist

Next-Level Safety

PRESAFE® in the 2023 GLE and the Active Protection System in the X5 can prepare these vehicles for an imminent collision. They’ll automatically close the windows and tighten the front seat belts to better protect the occupants.

Taking it a step further, PRESAFE® Sound comes standard on the 2023 GLE. It builds off the base system. When a collision occurs, it emits a “pink noise.” The frequency of this tone triggers a natural reflex in the ear, which protects it from loud collision sounds.

Turbo-Charged Powertrains

Both the Mercedes-Benz and the BMW sport their own spin on turbocharged engines. They have several powertrains to choose from, but the 2023 GLE has a distinct advantage thanks to its standard 9G-TRONIC 9-speed automatic transmission. It offers a wider range of gear ratios than the 8-speed Sport automatic transmission of the X5, which helps boost efficiency and provides a smooth ride.

Potent Power Meets Efficiency

The 2023 AMG GLE 53 4MATIC+® and the X5 M are the most powerful configurations of their respective SUVs. Both performance models give you a pulse-raising ride; however, only one combines the best of both worlds with a more efficient performance. The 2023 AMG configuration boasts an EPA-estimated 18 city/22 highway MPG, while the X5 M only manages an EPA-estimated 13 city/18 highway MPG.*

These engines are equipped with a mild hybrid system for elevated fuel economy, but they don’t sacrifice power to do so. In fact, the 2023 GLE can tow up to 7,700 pounds when properly equipped, slightly more than the 7,200-pound towing capacity for the BMW X5. Still, that extra 500 pounds can mean the difference between taking along one of your recreational toys and leaving it at home.

Stay Comfortable on Every Drive

Both models have standard seating for five passengers and offer an optional third row to accommodate up to seven riders. So, no matter how many friends or family members decide to tag along, you’ll be able to welcome them on board. Plus, both SUVs have over 40 inches of headroom in the front seats and more than 36 inches for passengers in the back row.

When it comes to legroom, though, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE comes out on top again. With a generous 40.3 inches of legroom in the front and 40.9 inches in the rear, your passengers won’t need to fight for the front-passenger seat. Unfortunately, the BMW X5 tops out with 39.8 inches of legroom in the front and only 37.4 inches in the rear.

Room for All Your Gear

Of course, with people comes stuff, and you’ll want to ensure you’ll have adequate space for all of it. The 2023 GLE and the 2023 X5 both provide over 33 cubic feet of cargo room in the trunk.

You’ll also find a whopping 74.9 cubic feet of maximum cargo space in the 2023 GLE, which is more than the 72.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space in the BMW X5. When you need to pack for a cross-country adventure, which one would you prefer?