2021 Ford Explorer vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a refined exterior with softened lines and reduced scalloping, contributing to a lower drag coefficient of .29, which Mercedes claimed made it a class leader. The front end underwent the most noticeable transformation, enhancing its overall handsome appearance. Inside, the GLE offered increased headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch wheelbase extension, allowing for an optional third row, although this feature was not available in the test model. The interior was luxurious, with options like black leather upholstery and a multi-contour seat with a massage feature, though some features like heated and ventilated seats required additional costs. The tester's Emerald Green Metallic paint, however, showed an orange-peel effect, which was disappointing for a premium paint option.

The 2021 Ford Explorer maintained a family resemblance with other Ford SUVs, featuring sporty, raked belt lines and distinctive visages. It offered six trim levels, from the base model to the Platinum, with prices ranging from $32,925 to $52,730. The Explorer came standard with three rows of seating, although the third row was not ideal for adults. The interior was practical, with a clean dash and an 8-inch LCD touchscreen, complemented by a rotary gearshift that maximized storage space. The XLT trim, popular among consumers, provided better equipment, while higher trims offered leather upholstery and additional features.

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 felt sluggish from a stop due to turbo lag, possibly exacerbated by the vehicle's nearly 5,000-pound weight. The 9-speed automatic transmission was decent but not as smooth as competitors like the BMW X5. 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 Explorer, at its lightest, weighed 4,345 pounds and featured a base 2.3-liter EcoBoost turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. This engine outperformed competitors like the Kia Telluride's V6. The Explorer's 10-speed automatic transmission was standard across all trims. Higher trims offered a 3.0-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6, with the Explorer ST providing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer excelled in towing, with capacities ranging from 5,000 to 5,600 pounds, depending on the configuration.

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 featured 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 screen, and the upgraded Burmester stereo caused vibrations through the brake pedal.

The 2021 Ford Explorer accommodated seven passengers in the base model, with captain's chairs in higher trims reducing capacity to six. It provided 39 inches of legroom in the second row, surpassing some competitors. With the third row in use, the Explorer offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 81 cubic feet with the seats folded. This cargo capacity was competitive with smaller SUVs, though not exceptional for its class.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system, praised for its depth and innovation. It included dual 12.3-inch screens and a head-up display, offering options like augmented reality navigation. The system's voice control was less effective in the GLE compared to the A-Class, but the steering-wheel controls were intuitive. The driver-assistance tech was improved but still had issues at high speeds.

The 2021 Ford Explorer came with an 8-inch touchscreen as standard, offering features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G WiFi hotspot. Higher trims included a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system and a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The Explorer provided multiple charging options, including USB ports and 12-volt power points, with a 110-volt AC outlet available on higher trims.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked testing data from NHTSA and IIHS but offered advanced safety features like Attention Assist and Seat Kinetics. However, its autonomous systems struggled at high speeds, causing lane swaying and confusion with road shadows.

The 2021 Ford Explorer was rated as a Top Safety Pick+ by IIHS, with top scores in crash tests. It included the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite as standard, offering features like blind-spot monitoring and automatic emergency braking. The Co-Pilot360 Assist+ suite, available on higher trims, added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features.