2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 INFINITI QX80

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, with its 2024 facelift, retained a unique design that set it apart from other Mercedes SUVs. It featured a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille that gave it a wide stance. The sharply tapered side glass and rakish windshield contributed to its distinctive look, though the proportions appeared odd, especially in the GLE Coupe models. Despite not being the most handsome in the lineup, the GLE's styling adhered closely to Mercedes' brand identity. New paint colors and interior options, including Nappa leather upholstery, allowed buyers to personalize their GLE, enhancing its upscale and special feel.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 underwent its first redesign since 2017, growing slightly in size while maintaining its body-on-frame architecture. The new frame improved torsional and lateral stiffness significantly. The QX80's styling became more expressive, with a prominent grille and a stacked-headlight setup that gave it an imposing look. Other updates included full-width LED taillights and blacked-out roof pillar trim, which modernized its appearance. The QX80 offered various trim levels, with higher trims featuring larger wheels and a panoramic moonroof. Inside, the cabin received a high-tech makeover with a large horizontal display and ambient lighting, though some materials felt less premium.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp, while the GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 510 hp. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 hp and the GLE 63 S with a massive 603 hp. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, making maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 switched to a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, delivering 450 horsepower and 516 pound-feet of torque, replacing the previous V8. A nine-speed automatic transmission improved acceleration, though the active sound enhancement added an artificial noise. The QX80 featured air suspension with adaptive damping, offering adjustable ride height for off-road and aerodynamic purposes. Despite its size, the QX80's handling was average for a large SUV, and the air suspension couldn't completely smooth out bumps.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row space specs weren't published. It offered competitive headroom and slightly more second-row space than rivals. Cargo space was 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The GLE's towing capacity reached 7,700 pounds, matching the Audi Q7.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 increased cargo space by up to 28%, offering 22 cubic feet with all seats up and 101 cubic feet with seats folded. It featured power-folding seats and a power liftgate for easy reconfiguration. Passenger space was generous, with increased legroom in the first and third rows. The QX80's towing capacity was 8,500 pounds, surpassing most full-size luxury SUVs.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured 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, were available. AMG models had additional drive modes and settings, while off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function enhanced capability.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80 had dual 14.3-inch screens and a smaller 9-inch touchscreen for controls. Google built-in apps provided navigation and voice recognition, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto supported. The infotainment system's graphics felt similar to Nissan's, and the lower touchscreen required firm presses. Klipsch sound systems and a 360-degree camera system with multiple views were available.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered numerous driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though front-crash prevention ratings were mixed.

The 2025 INFINITI QX80's crash-test ratings weren't available, but it included standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. ProPilot Assist offered highway-driving assistance, with hands-free driving available on higher trims.