2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured subtle yet impactful aesthetic updates. The headlights and taillights were sharper, and black fender flares adorned the wheel arches. The grille received chrome inserts, enhancing its appeal. The optional AMG Line package added a sporty touch with a distinct grille, and while 19-inch wheels were standard, 21-inch options were available. Inside, the cabin maintained a classic Mercedes-Benz feel with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though the combination of open-pore walnut trim and Bahia Brown seating gave it a dated look. Opting for lighter leather could remedy this.

In contrast, the 2025 Volkswagen Atlas offered five trim levels, with the Peak Edition designed for off-roading and the SEL Premium R-Line boasting a sporty appearance. The Atlas Cross Sport variant provided a rakish design. Prices ranged from $38,200 to $53,205, excluding a $1,425 destination charge. The SEL Premium R-Line in Mountain Lake Blue with Shetland Beige leather interior stood out with polished aluminum detailing, light bars, and 21-inch wheels. Its chiseled, upscale appearance was complemented by a premium interior with diamond-stitched leather and metallic accents, creating a warm environment.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered various powertrains, including the GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. The 450e plug-in hybrid, however, was the focus, featuring a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine producing 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite being slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450, it offered a 48-mile electric range, with the potential for 55 miles. The 450e defaulted to electric mode on startup and had an 11-kW onboard charger, with the ability to accept a 60-kW DC fast charge.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas replaced its previous engines with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. Despite initial skepticism, the engine proved refined and satisfying for daily driving. The Atlas returned 15.5 mpg in urban settings and 19.2 mpg overall, slightly below EPA ratings. The ride quality was less impressive, with a brittle suspension and excessive body motions at highway speeds. However, handling was predictable, and the brakes performed well under stress.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, heated and cooled cup holders, ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. It could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist. 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 2025 Volkswagen Atlas shone in form and function, with a comfortable third-row seat and cavernous cargo area. The SEL Premium R-Line model featured heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, excellent visibility, and a surround-view camera system. The second-row bench seat accommodated three adults comfortably, and access to the third row was outstanding. Cargo space was generous, with 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 96.6 cubic feet with all seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than other Mercedes models, it was user-friendly, with voice control and augmented reality navigation. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto had connectivity issues.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas used the MIB3 system with a 12-inch touchscreen. It lacked traditional controls, relying on touch-sensitive buttons. The native voice assistant was unreliable, but wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided a better experience. The Harman Kardon audio system was impressive, though the MIB3 system had user-experience glitches.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with standard blind-spot monitoring and optional Driver Assistance Package Plus, including adaptive cruise control and lane-change assist. It received high safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2025 Volkswagen Atlas featured IQ.Drive, with adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and emergency assist. It included a five-year subscription to Car-Net Safe & Secure services. The Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and was a 2024 IIHS “Top Safety Pick.”