2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Mazda CX-5

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was easy to miss even for trained eyes. Up close, the new Mercedes star logos on the front grille were a clever touch, and changes to the headlights and taillights were more noticeable when compared directly with the outgoing model. The GLE 450e we tested featured standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights. The vehicle's Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels added a touch of elegance, though the wheels came at an additional cost of $1,100. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim, adding $1,620 and $160, respectively, to the price.

In contrast, the 2024 Mazda CX-5 maintained its design from the second-generation model that debuted in 2017, with minor changes. The new Carbon Turbo trim featured Zircon Sand paint and exclusive Terracotta leather seats with black artificial suede inserts. The gloss-black exterior detailing added to the model's appeal. Mazda also introduced wireless charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto to several trim levels. The CX-5 lineup included 2.5 S and 2.5 Turbo models, with the latter offering a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing up to 256 hp on premium gas. The Carbon Turbo test vehicle had a rear bumper guard and an interior lighting kit, bringing the MSRP to $39,355, including destination.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting at approximately $63,805. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two additional AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The top-of-the-line AMG GLE 63 S featured a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 hp. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric-only driving range was estimated at 40 miles, and it could operate as an EV at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition from gas to electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 Carbon Turbo, when filled with premium gas, delivered 256 hp at 5,000 rpm and 320 lb-ft of torque at 2,500 rpm. On regular gas, it produced 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. The CX-5 Turbo's powertrain was more rewarding with a steady press on the accelerator, allowing revs to build before delivering torque. The official EPA fuel economy rating was 24 mpg in combined driving, though our test observed 22.9 mpg. The CX-5's suspension was re-tuned for a smoother ride, and the frame was stiffened for responsive handling. The G-Vectoring Control Plus technology enhanced cornering and minimized body motions. The CX-5 was quiet on the highway, firm in the city, and fun on twisty roads, with a ground clearance of 7.9 inches for off-road capability.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. Standard features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a power sunroof, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added features like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 featured standard heated front seats, with the driver’s seat offering six-way power adjustment. Leather upholstery was standard on all trims except the base 2.5 S Select. The top-tier 2.5 Turbo Signature had premium Nappa leather. The rear seat provided good support and a proper sitting position, with rear air conditioning vents and a center armrest with cupholders. The CX-5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seat folded down, which was less than most compact crossovers.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system could be controlled via touch commands, a control pad on the center console, or touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive control on the steering wheel could inadvertently increase the music volume while maneuvering.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 eschewed touchscreens for traditional switchgear, though it allowed touchscreen operation of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto while driving. The 10.25-inch display was navigated using a large knob on the center console, with surrounding buttons for quick access to main functions. Mazda Connected Services offered remote engine starting, a find my car feature, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and automatic 911 dialing. Several CX-5 trims included a 10-speaker Bose premium sound system, enhancing the SUV's premium feel.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist. These features were unobtrusive and effective during everyday driving.

The 2024 Mazda CX-5 was equipped with advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, traffic sign recognition, and Traffic Jam Assist. The top-tier 2.5 Turbo Signature included a driver monitoring system, surround-view camera, parking sensors, and automatic reverse braking. The CX-5 received five-star ratings from the NHTSA, except for a four-star rollover resistance rating.