2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 BMW X5

The design of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class had its ups and downs. While the GLE boasted an aggressive nose with a sloping, low hood, it seemed to lose its visual appeal past the A-pillar, making it almost indistinguishable from its older versions. Flat taillights and a contoured rear offered some respite, but overall, the GLE lacked the harmonious proportions seen in its competitors—BMW, Audi, Jaguar, or even Lincoln. The AMG trim pushed a sporty aesthetic, but it felt like dressing an ill-fitting suit on a body that couldn’t carry it. This was particularly evident when placed next to rivals like the BMW X5 M or Porsche Cayenne Turbo, which exuded a more cohesive sporty look.

Inside, the GLE was leagues ahead. Its interior was an epitome of quality with premium materials—wood, metal, leather, and suede. Notably, the twin arching grab handles on the center console, outlined with LED lighting, stood out. The substantially sized headrests, air vent grilles, and black screens spanning two feet across the dash created a lavish feel. However, the flimsy gear selector and turn signal stalks offered a stark contrast. Overall, the GLE’s interior was an outlandish yet wonderful combination of luxury and functionality.

In stark contrast, the 2021 BMW X5 adhered to the iconic design elements that have made BMWs instantly recognizable. The proportions, from the kidney grille to the body shape, made it unmistakably a BMW. Full adaptive LED headlights and a variety of trims and finishes, including matte aluminum for xLine models and body-colored elements for the M Sport styling, added to the luxurious appeal. It rode on wheels ranging from 19 to 22 inches, enhancing its sporty persona.

Inside, the X5 maintained BMW’s typical high standards. However, the sameness within its lineup meant the interior felt familiar, almost interchangeable with other BMW models. That said, the use of black plastic, leather, and soft-touch materials ensured it wasn’t inferior in quality. The M Sport versions incorporated unique touches like an M sports steering wheel, pedals, footrests, seat piping, and exclusive trim strips, adding a sporty edge.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class excelled as a multi-purpose vehicle thanks to its diverse range of powertrains and sophisticated suspension setups. The base GLE 350 featured a turbo 2.0-liter inline-four engine with 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, driving the rear wheels (or all four with optional 4Matic). The GLE 450 upgraded to a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft, bolstered by an electric motor-generator providing an extra 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque momentarily. AMG models, including the GLE 53 Coupe and GLE 63 S, upped the ante with 429 hp and 603 hp, respectively. These configurations, coupled with a 48-volt mild hybrid system in everything except the GLE 350, ensured the GLE was both quick and moderately efficient—with fuel economy ranging from 16 to 21 mpg.

Suspension configurations ranged from ordinary coil springs on the base GLE 350 to the air-assisted AIRMATIC setup, which adapted to different conditions. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control systems offered an array of performance enhancements like Roll Stabilization and the ability to lean into turns, which were particularly beneficial on AMG models.

On the flip side, the 2021 BMW X5 brought a host of powertrain options. The base sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline-six engine delivering 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. The xDrive M50i ramped up performance with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 producing 523 hp and 553 lb-ft. For those seeking even more power, the X5 M offered 600 hp, which could be boosted to 617 hp with the Competition Package.

Additionally, BMW introduced the X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model for 2021. This model featured a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine paired with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, combining for 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque and allowing up to 30 miles of electric-only range. Fuel efficiency varied across the line, with the X5 M achieving the least at 15 mpg combined and the xDrive45e rated at 50 MPGe when operating on both electric and gasoline power.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class delivered a blend of luxury and practicality, offering seating for up to seven when equipped with an optional third row. The second row came with power controls for reclining and fore-aft adjustment, enhancing passenger comfort. The cargo space was substantial, with 34 cubic feet behind the second row and up to 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe version, however, compromised on practicality, with only 23 cubic feet behind the second row and 61 cubic feet in total.

Usability improvements included the advanced MBUX infotainment system, which streamlined controls, making it simpler than previous models. The touchpad interface, seat controls on the doors, and rocker switches on the center console were intuitive and easy to use. However, its massive 22-inch wheels obstructed graceful exits from the rear seats.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, placing cupholders at the front of the center console and fitting the console with various controls. Front seats offered reasonable comfort for short trips but could feel hard on longer drives. The second-row seats provided ample comfort for kids and adults, and the optional third row added extra versatility, although it wasn't tested.

Cargo capacity without the third row was generous, although the plug-in hybrid xDrive45e slightly compromised space. BMW’s air suspension, which allowed for height adjustment, facilitated loading awkward-sized cargo. However, rear access was limited as the doors didn’t open very wide.

In terms of technology, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class was a standout. Its 12-inch touchscreen featured Interior Assistant, which recognized certain hand gestures. For instance, pointing two fingers at the display triggered a preprogrammed shortcut, and moving a hand toward an icon magnified it. The AMG models featured the Track Pace app for track timing, while the Seat Kinetics system subtly adjusted seating angles during drives. From a highly customizable head-up display to ambient lighting with 64 colors, the GLE was packed with high-tech features. The natural voice assistant responded to the command "Mercedes," and the semi-automated driving functions could change lanes and slow down autonomously.

On the other hand, the 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto—delivering a seamless connectivity experience. Standard features included a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, and multiple USB ports. Buyers had the option to upgrade to a head-up display, quad-zone automatic climate control, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. Although the BMW iDrive system required a learning curve, it became intuitive with regular use.