A battle of two premium German SUVs, the BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE is a tough call to make.
Both cars are luxurious and easy on the eye, but they’re also comfortable to drive and ideal for family life. So, how do you choose your perfect fit?
Take a look at our GLE vs. X5 review below to see the highlights of both cars.
X5 vs. GLE
Our guide will answer:
Which car has the better styling?
Is the GLE or X5 better to drive?
Does the X5 or GLE have better tech?
Is the GLE or X5 more reliable?
What are the X5 vs. GLE dimensions?
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: styling
 "BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: which is better? (2)")
There’s one thing we can say for sure about both SUVs – they're both stunners.
Each model gets an impressively chunky grille on its sleek but boxy body, and there are plenty of sharp folds and smooth curves.
Your favourite will come down to personal preference. All that really comes between them is the different styling cues of BMW and Mercedes.
We think the BMW has a more classic design, while the Mercedes feels slightly more menacing.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: what are they like to drive?
 "BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: which is better? (3)")
The Mercedes GLE is a massive car with a surprisingly neat turning circle, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble if you live in a city or urban area.
It also sails down the motorway with no hard work, and the nine-speed automatic gearbox makes it even easier.
You won’t find the BMW X5 a taxing drive either, despite it also being a big car. ‘Sport’ mode is even quite fun on twisty roads, with sharp and smooth gear changes.
You’ll have a few engine options in both models, including some plug-in hybrids. The X5 xDrive50e can get up to 65 miles on electric power alone, while the GLE Plug-in Hybrid claims up to 66 miles.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: interior and technology
 "BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: which is better? (4)")
You’re never going to be disappointed with the interior of a premium German SUV and that’s a fact. Both the BMW and Mercedes models are a dreamy place to be.
The GLE gets a 12.3-inch digital driver’s display as standard, with a matching 12.3-inch infotainment screen. This includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and sat nav.
It’s pretty well matched by the X5, as it brings its own 12.3-inch infotainment screen and digital driver’s display, also with the same smartphone mirroring and sat nav.
Both cars are gorgeous inside, as well. Plush seats, soft touch plastics, and a noticeable lack of traditional buttons and switches, which you’ll either love or hate, but can’t deny they feel premium.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: boot space and practicality
 "BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: which is better? (5)")
Boot space differs not only between the two SUVs, but across the range of both cars.
Plug-in hybrid models lose boot space to make room for that electric tech. The GLE plug-in hybrid offers 490 litres of boot room, while the plug-in X5 offers 500 litres.
With the rear seats in place, the classic X5 brings 650 litres of space –. slightly ahead of the GLE, which offers 630 litres.
You can also fold the seats down in both models, getting 2,055 litres in the GLE and 1,870 litres in the X5, so the Merc does win a point there.
Both cars are wildly practical if space is what you’re after, offering a roomy interior and plenty of room for backseat passengers.
We mentioned above that they’re both easy to drive for big cars, but they are still big cars, so you’ll want to beware of bashing your doors in tight carparks.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: safety and reliability
The X5 and GLE are level with a full five-star Euro NCAP rating, meaning they perform well when put through their paces with crash testing.
The GLE comes with safety kit such as blind-spot monitoring and lane-keep assist as standard.
The X5 isn’t lacking in comparison, also offering lane-keep assist, plus intelligent cruise control with its BMW Driving Assistant Professional system.
Reliability is promising, with both models getting a three-year manufacturer warranty from brand-new. Both brands tend to perform pretty strong for reliability as well.
Premium cars also mean premium quality so, while you might pay more for parts and repairs, you’re getting a car that’s built to last.
BMW X5 vs. Mercedes GLE: dimensions
BMW X5
Length: 4,935mm
Width: 2,004mm
Height: 1,765mm
Boot: 650 litres (1,870 litres with the rear seats folded)
Mercedes GLE
Length: 4,924mm
Width: 1,947mm
Height: 1,797mm
Boot: 630 litres (2,055 litres with the rear seats folded)
Verdict: X5 vs. GLE: which should you buy?
So, the X5 vs. GLE brings us two SUVs that are on a pretty level playing field.
They’re similar in boot size, have plug-in hybrid options on offer with similar stats, and have that classically handsome SUV styling.
What might set the two apart is your love for one manufacturer over the other, as prices on the used market are in the same ballpark as well.
It’s worth noting that you can get the X5 as a seven-seater, something the GLE can’t match as of 2024. Is that the deciding factor for you?
Take a look at our full range of used BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE models to compare your options.
Read more car comparison reviews:
SEAT Ibiza vs. VW Polo: which is better?
Ford Fiesta vs. Renault Clio: which is better?
