2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Ford Bronco

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibited subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. The headlights and taillights were sharper, and black fender flares adorned the wheel arches. The grille featured chrome inserts, adding a touch of elegance. The optional AMG Line package enhanced the sportiness of the exterior, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with an option to upgrade to 21-inch wheels. Inside, the cabin maintained the classic Mercedes-Benz luxury with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though the combination of open-pore walnut trim and Bahia Brown seating gave it a retro feel. Opting for lighter leather could remedy this design choice.

In contrast, the 2024 Ford Bronco embraced a retro design reminiscent of the 1960s, particularly successful in the two-door model. The Sasquatch Package, though costly, added a suspension lift and 35-inch mud-terrain tires, giving the Bronco a rugged and purposeful appearance. The Bronco offered nine trim levels, with the Big Bend as the standard trim. Our test vehicle, a four-door Big Bend in Hot Pepper Red, included the Sasquatch Package, priced at $55,415. The interior, while functional, featured marine-grade upholstery that trapped moisture, making it less comfortable in hot conditions. The Bronco's design allowed for an open-air experience with removable roof panels and doors, enhancing its adventurous appeal.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. Our test vehicle, the 450e, featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite its power, the 450e was about a half-second slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to its 23.3-kWh battery. The 450e could travel up to 55 miles on all-electric power and offered a smooth transition between electric and gas modes. However, its driving dynamics were less sporty, with light steering and body roll, making it more suitable for comfortable commutes.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend came with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque. It offered a seven-speed manual transmission or a 10-speed automatic. The optional 2.7-liter EcoBoost V6 engine delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, while the Raptor model boasted a 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 with 418 hp and 440 lb-ft. The Bronco's part-time 4WD system and various G.O.A.T. modes provided off-road capabilities, though its fuel efficiency was lacking, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing. The Bronco excelled in off-road conditions, but its on-road performance was less refined, with noticeable wind and tire noise.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e prioritized interior luxury with standard heated front seats, optional ventilation, and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a Burmester stereo system contributed to a relaxing ride. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and offered Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space was ample, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2024 Ford Bronco, particularly the four-door model, provided ample interior space, accommodating four adults comfortably. The marine-grade vinyl upholstery, while durable, trapped moisture, making cloth seats a preferable option. The Bronco's design allowed for an open-air experience with removable roof panels and doors. Cargo space varied, with the two-door model offering 22.4 cubic feet, expanding to 53.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The four-door model provided 38.3 cubic feet, increasing to 83 cubic feet with the rear seats down.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch screen. The system included a touchpad on the center console and voice control. The augmented reality navigation system and off-road page provided useful information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though connectivity issues were noted. USB-C ports offered ample charging options.

The 2024 Ford Bronco came standard with a 12-inch touchscreen Sync 4 infotainment system, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, connectivity issues with Apple CarPlay and voice recognition were noted. The Bronco Trail App provided access to trail maps and information. The 8-inch digital instrumentation panel required a learning curve, and steering wheel controls were somewhat distracting.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with blind-spot monitoring as standard. The optional Driver Assistance Package Plus included active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-change assist. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from NHTSA, and a "Good" rating from IIHS.

The 2024 Ford Bronco Big Bend included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a backup camera. The Mid Package added Ford Co-Pilot360 technologies, including lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Bronco received favorable ratings from IIHS, except for its headlight performance, and a four-star frontal-impact rating from NHTSA.