2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 Ford Bronco Sport

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a refined aesthetic with softened lines and reduced scalloping, contributing to a lower drag coefficient of .29. This design choice made it a class leader in aerodynamics, according to Mercedes. The front end underwent the most noticeable transformation, enhancing its overall appeal. Inside, the GLE offered increased headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch wheelbase extension, allowing for an optional third row. However, the special $720 Emerald Green Metallic paint revealed an unexpected orange-peel effect, detracting from its premium feel. The GLE 350 started at $53,700, with numerous options quickly escalating the price. Despite some questionable add-ons, the interior was luxurious, featuring multi-contour front seats with massage, a Burmester stereo, and a range of comfort-enhancing packages.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport, a smaller sibling to the anticipated Bronco, embraced a modern retro design reminiscent of Land Rover. Its short front and rear overhangs, tall fender wells, and minimal adornment were tailored for trail driving. The bold "BRONCO" lettering on the grille and tailgate, with a subtle "SPORT" postscript, added to its rugged charm. Wheel options varied across trims, with sizes ranging from 17 to 18 inches, and the interior maintained a rugged yet uncluttered design. The center stack featured an 8-inch infotainment screen, and the interior trim progressed from cloth to leather across models. The Bronco Sport was designed for active lifestyles, with ample cargo space and a range of accessories for outdoor adventures.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While it offered sufficient power at speed, it suffered from turbo lag when accelerating from a stop, likely due to its nearly 5,000-pound weight. The 9-speed automatic transmission was decent but not as smooth as the BMW X5's 8-speed. The GLE 350's fuel economy was commendable, achieving 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined, though the X5 offered more power with similar efficiency.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport offered two engine choices. The Base, Big Bend, and Outer Banks trims featured a 1.5-liter EcoBoost turbocharged three-cylinder engine with 181 horsepower and 190 pound-feet of torque. The Badlands and First Edition models were equipped with a 2.0-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 245 horsepower and 275 pound-feet of torque. All models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, along with a terrain management system with up to seven G.O.A.T. modes. The Bronco Sport excelled off-road, thanks to its short wheelbase, independent suspension, and generous ground clearance, while maintaining good manners on pavement.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE benefited from an extended wheelbase, providing ample space in the second row. It offered between 33.3 and 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 79.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The interior was dominated by dual 12.3-inch screens, setting a new standard for dash design. The seats were comfortable, with a "Seat Kinetics" system to prevent discomfort on long drives. However, the steering wheel's position often obstructed the view of the screens, and the upgraded Burmester stereo caused unwanted vibrations through the brake pedal.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport catered to active buyers with features like cargo space designed to hold two 27.5-inch-wheel mountain bikes. Ford offered over 100 accessories for transporting outdoor gear. The roof could support up to 150 pounds, and the 2.0-liter engine could tow up to 2,200 pounds. The cargo area featured a flip-up rear glass, a slide-out work table, and a 400-watt inverter. The front cabin provided ample storage compartments, though taller drivers might struggle with visibility due to the roof overhang and hood bulges.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system, which was both deep and daunting but ultimately rewarding. The steering-wheel controls were intuitive, allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The driver-assistance tech was improved but still had issues at high speeds. The dual 12.3-inch screens and HUD offered augmented reality features, though they could be distracting. The voice control system, while promising, was less effective in the GLE than in the A-Class.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came equipped with the latest SYNC 3 infotainment system, featuring an 8-inch touchscreen compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. FordConnect with 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was standard, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system was available on higher trims. The terrain management system offered multiple G.O.A.T. modes, and trail control technology provided cruise-control-like assistance for off-roading. Intelligent access with push-button start was included on all trims except the Base model.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked testing data from NHTSA and IIHS but offered a comprehensive suite of autonomous safety systems. Attention Assist monitored driver fatigue, and Seat Kinetics adjusted seating positions to prevent discomfort. However, the safety systems struggled at high speeds, causing the car to sway within the lane and get confused by shadows or unexpected lines.

The 2021 Ford Bronco Sport came standard with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite, including pre-collision assist, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ package added adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and road-sign recognition. All models featured AWD and a terrain management system with traction control, anti-lock braking, and electronic stability control. Crash-worthiness ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not yet available.