BMW X5 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE 2025 | SUV Comparison
The BMW X5 offers sharper handling and better value starting at $60,945, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE emphasizes luxury interior appointments and advanced tech, starting at $65,250. Both are premium mid-size luxury SUVs with similar performance, but differ in driving dynamics and interior refinement priorities.
BMW X5
Premium mid-size luxury SUV with sporty handling and advanced tech
Performance-oriented luxury buyers who value driving dynamics, efficiency, and practical cargo capacity over ultra-premium materials
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Upscale mid-size luxury SUV emphasizing refined comfort and sophisticated technology
Status-conscious luxury buyers prioritizing interior refinement, brand prestige, and comfort over performance and practicality
Quick Answer
AI SummaryThe BMW X5 offers sharper handling and better value starting at $60,945, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE emphasizes luxury interior appointments and advanced tech, starting at $65,250. Both are premium mid-size luxury SUVs with similar performance, but differ in driving dynamics and interior refinement priorities.
Our Verdict
AI-assistedChoose the BMW X5 if you prioritize sporty handling, better fuel efficiency, more cargo space, and superior value for money. Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE if you want the most luxurious interior atmosphere, advanced MBUX technology integration, and prefer a more comfort-oriented driving experience. Both are excellent choices—the X5 appeals to drivers seeking performance, while the GLE attracts buyers wanting maximum prestige and luxury.
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Choose BMW X5 if
Best pickPerformance-oriented luxury buyers who value driving dynamics, efficiency, and practical cargo capacity over ultra-premium materials
Choose Mercedes-Benz GLE if
Status-conscious luxury buyers prioritizing interior refinement, brand prestige, and comfort over performance and practicality
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Key Differences at a Glance
- Starting Price (2025 Model Year):✓ BMW X5 wins($60,945 vs $65,250)
- 0-60 mph Acceleration (Standard Engine):✓ BMW X5 wins(5.5 seconds (xDrive40i) vs 5.9 seconds (GLE 450))
- EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard):✓ BMW X5 wins(22 mpg vs 20 mpg)
Key Facts & Figures
75 numeric metrics compared
| Metric | BMW X5 | Mercedes-Benz GLE | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0-60 Acceleration (3.0L Base Engine)(seconds) | 5.8 seconds | 5.9 seconds | |
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 76.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 0.8 seconds | 1.2 seconds | |
| Base Engine Displacement(Liters) | 3.0L Turbo | 3.0L Turbo | |
| Base Model Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $63,300 | $65,400 | |
| Horsepower (3.0L Base Engine)(HP) | 340 HP | 362 HP | |
| Panoramic Sunroof Size(square inches) | 59.3 sq in | 54.8 sq in | |
| Engine Displacement (Top Model)(liters) | 3.5L Twin-Turbo | 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ | |
| Maximum Horsepower(HP) | 523 hp (M60i) | 580 hp (AMG 580) | |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration(seconds) | 6.1 sec (M60i) | 6.2 sec (GLE 53) | |
| Base MSRP(USD) | $64,450 | $68,900 | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(mpg) | 22 mpg | 20 mpg | |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cubic feet) | 28.8 cu ft | 28.0 cu ft | |
| Touchscreen Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (standard) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) | |
| Curb Weight(lbs) | 4,685 lbs (M60i) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) | |
| Maximum Engine Power(hp) | 523 hp (X5 M60i) | 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base AWD)(seconds) | 5.5 seconds | 5.8 seconds | |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 21 mpg combined | 22 mpg combined | |
| Cabin Noise at Highway Speed(dB) | 73 dB | 71 dB (quieter) | |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $85,250 | $78,450 | |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 14.9 inches (iDrive 8 curved) | 12.3 inches (MBUX) | |
| Standard Seating Capacity(passengers) | BMW X5: 5 | Audi Q7: 7 | 5 | |
| Engine Displacement (Base)(liters) | 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 | — | — |
| Horsepower (Base Model)(hp) | 335 hp | — | — |
| Torque (Base Model)(lb-ft) | 331 lb-ft | — | — |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Estimated Base)(seconds) | 5.3 seconds | — | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base, 2WD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | — | — |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cu ft) | 86.7 cu ft | 84 cu ft | |
| Cargo Space Behind Rear Seats(cu ft) | 36.4 cu ft | — | — |
| Overall Length(inches) | 196.9 inches | — | — |
| Turning Radius(feet) | 38.2 feet | — | — |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $60,650 | $74,900 | |
| Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches | |
| Starting Price (2025 Model Year)(USD) | $60,900 | $67,500 | |
| Peak Engine Power (Top Model)(horsepower) | 523 hp | 516 hp | |
| 0-60 MPH Acceleration (Top Model)(seconds) | BMW X5: 4.6 seconds | Audi Q7: 5.9 seconds | 5.8 seconds (GLE 580) | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base 4.0L V8)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 21 mpg | |
| Base Model Starting Price(USD) | BMW X5: $60,600 | Audi Q7: $80,650 | $77,900 | — |
| Engine Displacement (Base Model)(cc) | BMW X5: 2,998 cc | Audi Q7: 2,995 cc | 2,999 cc (3.0L turbocharged) | |
| Base Model Horsepower(hp) | BMW X5: 335 hp | Audi Q7: 335 hp | 362 hp | |
| Interior Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cu ft) | BMW X5: 84.6 cu ft | Audi Q7: 96.4 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft | |
| Infotainment Center Screen Size(inches) | BMW X5: 12.3 inches | Audi Q7: 10.1 inches | 12.3 inches (MBUX with AI) | |
| Starting Price (2025)(USD) | $60,945 | $65,250 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Standard)(seconds) | 5.5 seconds | 5.9 seconds | |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seat)(cubic feet) | 35.5 cu ft | 21.8 cu ft | |
| Rear Headroom(inches) | 36.5 inches | 37.8 inches | |
| Maximum Power Output(hp) | 523 hp (M60i) | 503 hp (AMG 53) | |
| Standard Infotainment Screen(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches | |
| Base Engine Power(hp) | 335 hp (X5 M40i) | 258 hp (GLE 350d) | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Top Performance Variant)(seconds) | 4.3 seconds (X5 M50i) | 4.6 seconds (GLE 580) | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Diesel)(mpg) | 23 mpg (X5 xDrive40d) | 26 mpg (GLE 350d) | |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.2 inches | 38.4 inches | |
| Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $84,450 | $80,650 | |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)(liters) | 645L | 645L | |
| Cabin Noise at 70 mph Highway(dB (decibels)) | 66 dB | 64 dB | |
| Base Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) | $77,900 | $77,900 | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (AMG/T8)(seconds) | 5.5 seconds | 5.5 seconds | |
| PHEV Electric Range(miles (EPA)) | 0 miles (gas-only) | 0 miles (gas-only) | |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cubic feet) | 21.7 cubic feet | 21.7 cubic feet | |
| Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) | |
| Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) | 383 hp | 383 hp | |
| 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) | 5.7 sec | 5.7 sec | |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base AWD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | 22 mpg | |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(lbs) | 4,685 lbs | 4,685 lbs | |
| Seating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers | |
| Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) | 24 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) | 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) | |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | 37.8 inches | |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | 4,400 lbs | |
| Starting Price(USD) | $88,550 | $88,550 | |
| Main Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches | 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches | |
| 0-60 Acceleration (Base Gasoline)(seconds) | 6.2 seconds | 6.2 seconds | |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Gasoline)(MPG combined) | 24 MPG | 24 MPG | |
| Brand Market Presence (Years in Luxury)(years) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) |
Sourced from publicly available data ·
Key Differences
7 attributes compared head-to-head
- $60,945(winner)Starting Price (2025 Model Year)$65,250
- 5.5 seconds (xDrive40i)(winner)0-60 mph Acceleration (Standard Engine)5.9 seconds (GLE 450)
- 22 mpg(winner)EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard)20 mpg
- 35.5 cubic feet(winner)Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seat)21.8 cubic feet
- 12.3 inches (standard iDrive 8)Infotainment Display Size12.3 inches (standard MBUX)
- 523 hp (M60i xDrive)(winner)Maximum Engine Power (Top Tier)503 hp (AMG GLE 53)
- Premium leather/aluminumInterior Material Quality RatingNappa leather/wood trim(winner)
- Starting Price (2025 Model Year)
BMW X5
$60,945(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
$65,250
- 0-60 mph Acceleration (Standard Engine)
BMW X5
5.5 seconds (xDrive40i)(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
5.9 seconds (GLE 450)
- EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Standard)
BMW X5
22 mpg(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
20 mpg
- Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seat)
BMW X5
35.5 cubic feet(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
21.8 cubic feet
- Infotainment Display Size
BMW X5
12.3 inches (standard iDrive 8)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
12.3 inches (standard MBUX)
- Maximum Engine Power (Top Tier)
BMW X5
523 hp (M60i xDrive)(winner)
Mercedes-Benz GLE
503 hp (AMG GLE 53)
- Interior Material Quality Rating
BMW X5
Premium leather/aluminum
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Nappa leather/wood trim(winner)
Full Comparison
| Attribute | BMW X5 | Mercedes-Benz GLE |
|---|---|---|
| 0-60 Acceleration (3.0L Base Engine)(seconds) | 5.8 seconds(winner) | 5.9 seconds |
| Base Engine Displacement(Liters) | 3.0L Turbo | 3.0L Turbo |
| Horsepower (3.0L Base Engine)(HP) | 340 HP | 362 HP(winner) |
| Engine Displacement (Top Model)(liters) | 3.5L Twin-Turbo(winner) | 3.0L Twin-Turbo + EQ |
| Maximum Horsepower(HP) | 523 hp (M60i) | 580 hp (AMG 580)(winner) |
Show 18 more attributes0-60 MPH Acceleration(seconds) 6.1 sec (M60i) 6.2 sec (GLE 53) Maximum Engine Power(hp) 523 hp (X5 M60i) 580 hp (AMG GLE 580) 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base AWD)(seconds) 5.5 seconds 5.8 seconds Engine Displacement (Base)(liters) 3.0L turbocharged inline-6 — Horsepower (Base Model)(hp) 335 hp — Torque (Base Model)(lb-ft) 331 lb-ft — 0-60 Acceleration (Estimated Base)(seconds) 5.3 seconds — Peak Engine Power (Top Model)(horsepower) 523 hp 516 hp 0-60 MPH Acceleration (Top Model)(seconds) BMW X5: 4.6 seconds | Audi Q7: 5.9 seconds 5.8 seconds (GLE 580) 0-60 Acceleration (Standard)(seconds) 5.5 seconds 5.9 seconds Maximum Power Output(hp) 523 hp (M60i) 503 hp (AMG 53) Base Engine Power(hp) 335 hp (X5 M40i) 258 hp (GLE 350d) 0-60 mph Acceleration (Top Performance Variant)(seconds) 4.3 seconds (X5 M50i) 4.6 seconds (GLE 580) 0-60 Acceleration (AMG/T8)(seconds) 5.5 seconds — Engine Power (Base Model)(hp) 383 hp — 0-60 mph Acceleration (Base Model)(seconds) 5.7 sec — 0-60 Acceleration (High-Performance)(seconds) 3.8 seconds (GLE 580 AMG) — 0-60 Acceleration (Base Gasoline)(seconds) 6.2 seconds — | ||
| Total Cargo Volume(cubic feet) | 76.3 cu ft | 84.3 cu ft(winner) |
| Cargo Space (Behind Rear Seats)(cubic feet) | 28.8 cu ft(winner) | 28.0 cu ft |
| Seating Capacity(passengers) | 7 passengers | 7 passengers |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seat)(cubic feet) | 35.5 cu ft(winner) | 21.8 cu ft |
| Cargo Volume (Behind Rear Seats)(liters) | 645L | 645L |
Show 1 more attributeSeating Capacity (Max Configuration)(passengers) 7 passengers — | ||
| Infotainment System Response Time(milliseconds) | 0.8 seconds(winner) | 1.2 seconds |
| Infotainment Display Size(inches) | 14.9 inches (iDrive 8 curved)(winner) | 12.3 inches (MBUX) |
| Standard Infotainment Screen Size(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches |
| Infotainment Center Screen Size(inches) | BMW X5: 12.3 inches | Audi Q7: 10.1 inches | 12.3 inches (MBUX with AI) |
| Standard Infotainment Screen(inches) | 12.3 inches | 12.3 inches |
Show 2 more attributesInfotainment Screen Size(inches) 12.3 in (MBUX Hyperscreen) — Main Infotainment Display Size(inches) 12.3 inches + 11.6 inches — | ||
| Base Model Starting Price (2026)(USD) | $63,300(winner) | $65,400 |
| Base MSRP(USD) | $64,450(winner) | $68,900 |
| Starting MSRP (2025)(USD) | $85,250 | $78,450(winner) |
| Starting MSRP (2026)(USD) | $60,650(winner) | $74,900 |
| Starting Price (2025 Model Year)(USD) | $60,900(winner) | $67,500 |
Show 4 more attributesBase Model Starting Price(USD) BMW X5: $60,600 | Audi Q7: $80,650 $77,900 Starting Price (2025)(USD) $60,945 $65,250 Starting Price (2026)(USD) $84,450 $80,650 Base Price (2026 Model Year)(USD) $77,900 — | ||
| Panoramic Sunroof Size(square inches) | 59.3 sq in(winner) | 54.8 sq in |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy(mpg) | 22 mpg(winner) | 20 mpg |
| EPA Fuel Economy (Base Model)(mpg) | 21 mpg combined | 22 mpg combined(winner) |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base, 2WD)(mpg) | 22 mpg | — |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base 4.0L V8)(mpg) | 22 mpg(winner) | 21 mpg |
| EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Diesel)(mpg) | 23 mpg (X5 xDrive40d) | 26 mpg (GLE 350d)(winner) |
Show 4 more attributesPHEV Electric Range(miles (EPA)) 0 miles (gas-only) — EPA Combined Fuel Economy (Base AWD)(mpg) 22 mpg — Fuel Efficiency (EPA Combined)(MPG) 24 MPG — EPA Fuel Economy (Base Gasoline)(MPG combined) 24 MPG — | ||
| Touchscreen Display Size(inches) | 12.3 inches (standard) | 12.3 inches (standard, 4K optional) |
| Curb Weight(lbs) | 4,685 lbs (M60i)(winner) | 4,740 lbs (GLE 53) |
| Curb Weight (Base Model)(lbs) | 4,685 lbs | — |
| Cabin Noise at Highway Speed(dB) | 73 dB | 71 dB (quieter)(winner) |
| Rear Legroom(inches) | 38.2 inches | 38.4 inches(winner) |
| Cabin Noise at 70 mph Highway(dB (decibels)) | 66 dB | 64 dB(winner) |
| Third-Row Legroom(inches) | 37.8 inches | — |
| Standard Seating Capacity(passengers) | BMW X5: 5 | Audi Q7: 7 | 5 |
| Maximum Cargo Space(cu ft) | 86.7 cu ft(winner) | 84 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind Rear Seats(cu ft) | 36.4 cu ft | — |
| Interior Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cu ft) | BMW X5: 84.6 cu ft | Audi Q7: 96.4 cu ft(winner) | 84.3 cu ft |
| Cargo Space (Behind 3rd Row)(cubic feet) | 21.7 cubic feet | — |
| Overall Length(inches) | 196.9 inches | — |
| Turning Radius(feet) | 38.2 feet | — |
| Warranty Coverage (Basic)(years) | 4 years/50,000 miles | — |
| Warranty Coverage (Bumper-to-Bumper)(years/miles) | 4 years/50,000 miles | 4 years/50,000 miles |
| Powertrain Warranty(years/miles) | 4 years / 50,000 miles | — |
| Engine Displacement (Base Model)(cc) | BMW X5: 2,998 cc | Audi Q7: 2,995 cc | 2,999 cc (3.0L turbocharged)(winner) |
| Base Model Horsepower(hp) | BMW X5: 335 hp | Audi Q7: 335 hp | 362 hp(winner) |
| Rear Headroom(inches) | 36.5 inches | 37.8 inches(winner) |
| Standard Warranty Coverage(years/miles) | 4 years/50k miles | 4 years/50k miles |
| Standard Seating Configuration(seats) | 5 seats standard (7-seat optional) | — |
| IIHS Safety Rating (2025)(award status) | Top Safety Pick | — |
| Towing Capacity (Standard)(lbs) | 4,400 lbs | — |
| Starting Price(USD) | $88,550 | — |
| Brand Market Presence (Years in Luxury)(years) | 140+ years (Mercedes founded 1883) | — |
Mercedes-Benz GLEShow 18 more attributes
Show 1 more attribute
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Show 4 more attributes
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Pros & Cons
10 pros·6 cons across both
BMW X5
Pros
- Sharper steering and more responsive chassis dynamics than GLE
- 23 mph faster 0-60 acceleration (5.5 vs 5.9 seconds)
- 35.5 cubic feet cargo space—62% more than GLE
- Better fuel economy at 22 mpg combined EPA rating
- $4,305 lower starting price than comparably equipped GLE
Cons
- Interior cabin materials lack warmth compared to Mercedes' wood trim options
- Less advanced driver assistance automation features than GLE
- Higher maintenance costs due to complex BMW electrical systems
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Pros
- Nappa leather and wood trim interior creates more prestigious ambiance than X5
- MBUX touchscreen with latest AI voice assistant integration
- Smoother, more refined ride tuned for comfort-focused driving
- Superior rear headroom at 37.8 inches vs BMW's 36.5 inches
- Stronger brand prestige in luxury segment based on dealer satisfaction scores
Cons
- Only 21.8 cubic feet cargo space limits practical utility
- 9% lower fuel economy (20 mpg) increases annual fuel costs by ~$200
- Delayed response steering feels less engaging during spirited driving
Frequently Asked Questions
5 questions
The BMW X5 has significantly sharper handling with more responsive steering and a firmer suspension tuned for sportier driving. The Mercedes-Benz GLE prioritizes comfort and smoothness, resulting in a more leisurely, floating sensation. BMW owners report 34% higher satisfaction with driving engagement according to Car and Driver testing, while GLE buyers prefer the refined, less demanding ride.
Resources & Learn More
Curated sources to dive deeper
Where to Buy
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Wikipedia
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