2024 Lexus GX vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Lexus GX 550 showcased a bold transformation from its predecessor, the GX 470. The redesign embraced geometric styling, moving away from the softer, rounded corners of the past. The signature spindle grille was less pronounced, flanked by standard triple-beam LED headlights. The front end stood more vertically, giving the SUV a more aggressive appearance. The hood featured raised humps over the front wheels, aiding driver awareness during off-road adventures. The side profile appeared as if carved from metal, with minimal character lines and a low window beltline enhancing visibility. The GX was offered in six trims, with the Premium+ expected to be the bestseller. Luxury trims focused on opulence, while Overtrail models emphasized off-road capabilities with features like 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 and facelifted for 2024, maintained a distinct identity within the Mercedes lineup. It featured a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille. The GLE Coupe models exaggerated these proportions with a fastback-style roofline. For 2025, Mercedes introduced new paint colors and expanded Manufaktur interior options, offering Nappa leather in vibrant hues. The interior boasted upscale elements like chunky air vents and a 64-color ambient lighting system, creating a luxurious atmosphere. Despite its styling quirks, the GLE remained unmistakably a Mercedes.

The 2024 Lexus GX transitioned from a V8 to a twin-turbocharged 3.4-liter V6, delivering 349 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided impressive low-end torque, enhancing off-road capability. Built on the GA-F truck platform, the GX offered a stiffer chassis for improved stability. It featured a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard full-time 4WD with a locking Torsen limited-slip center differential. Overtrail trims added a locking rear differential and the Electronic Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System (E-KDSS) for enhanced wheel articulation. The GX demonstrated controlled on-road behavior and effective braking, despite its over 5,000-pound weight.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and AMG variants. The GLE 350 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 4Matic boasted a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 horsepower. The GLE 580 4Matic retained a V8, producing 510 horsepower. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 horsepower and the GLE 63 S with 603 horsepower. The GLE 63 S delivered exhilarating acceleration, accompanied by a V8 soundtrack. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, with adaptive air suspension and active anti-roll systems unable to fully mitigate its size.

The 2024 Lexus GX interior embraced a minimalist design with fewer physical buttons, retaining essential controls. It offered 41.2 inches of front legroom and 36.7 inches in the second row, while the third row was best suited for children. The GX excelled in cargo space, with up to 90.5 cubic feet available in Overtrail models.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE came in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs were not published. It provided competitive headroom and legroom, with slightly more space than rivals in the second row. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. It had a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

The 2024 Lexus GX featured a 14-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included USB-C ports, a wireless charging pad, and a 120-volt outlet. The Lexus Interface offered voice commands and subscription services like Drive Connect. A 21-speaker Mark Levinson stereo was available on higher trims.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with multiple access methods. AMG models offered additional drive modes and settings. Off-road displays and a “transparent hood” function enhanced its capabilities.

The 2024 Lexus GX improved its safety features with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including pre-collision detection, adaptive cruise control, and lane-tracing assist. While not yet crash-tested, its modern architecture and ADAS enhancements inspired confidence.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The GLE earned a 2025 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though front-crash prevention ratings varied.