2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in B5, B6, and Recharge T8 models, each offering standard all-wheel drive. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8, a plug-in hybrid, delivered the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. Trim levels included Core, Plus, and Ultimate, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding destination charges. The Recharge T8 Ultimate trim test vehicle boasted luxurious features like massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch, priced at $89,145. The XC90's design emphasized practicality and sustainability, with a subdued color palette and rich interior materials, including wool-blend upholstery and natural wood trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, redesigned in 2020 and facelifted for 2024, maintained a unique profile with a rounded design reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's styling, though not the most attractive in the lineup, adhered to Mercedes' brand identity. New paint colors and interior options were introduced, allowing for greater personalization. The GLE's interior featured a Yacht Blue option, with upscale elements like chunky air vents and a 64-color ambient lighting system. Despite its bulkier appearance, the GLE offered a refined and luxurious cabin experience.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. It offered 32 miles of electric-only driving and averaged 27 mpg in hybrid mode. The SUV accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds. Charging took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, reduced by half with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Pure, Power, and Hybrid, with a maximum ground clearance of 9.9 inches in Off-Road mode. However, the XC90's performance waned as the battery depleted, and its handling was not particularly thrilling, with a firm ride and less refined cabin noise.

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 engine with 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 4Matic had a 3.0-liter inline-six producing 375 hp. The GLE 450e 4Matic offered 381 hp and 50 miles of electric range. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a 4.0-liter V8 with 510 hp. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 hp and the GLE 63 S with 603 hp, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.9 and 3.7 seconds, respectively. The GLE impressed with its power and refinement, though it felt larger and less nimble than competitors, even with AMG enhancements.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 featured a well-equipped interior with power-adjustable heated seats, leather upholstery, and a four-zone climate control system. Higher trims added features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and an integrated booster seat. The XC90 seated seven, with a comfortable second-row bench and a tighter third-row. Cargo space reached 65.5 cubic feet with the third row folded and 85.7 cubic feet with the second row down. However, the climate control struggled in hot conditions, and interior storage was limited.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered two-row and three-row configurations, with competitive headroom and legroom. The second row provided more space than many rivals, and cargo capacity reached 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The GLE's center console offered ample storage, and its towing capacity was 7,700 pounds. Despite its spaciousness, visibility was limited, and the front seats' bolstering made entry and exit challenging.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM were standard, with premium audio options available. The system was intuitive, though the digital instrumentation panel was less user-friendly. A head-up display and surround-view camera were optional.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted dual 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment, with MBUX offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple access methods, including voice recognition, simplified use. AMG models added drive modes and off-road displays, enhancing functionality. The GLE's tech suite was comprehensive, though potentially overwhelming.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was synonymous with safety, earning high ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. However, its ADAS features were not groundbreaking, lacking hands-free driving assistance. Pilot Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering, had limitations, occasionally causing concern.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered extensive driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included collision warning, emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and more. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though its front-crash prevention ratings varied.