Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Jeep Wrangler 4xe

Summary: G-Wagens aside, the now-discontinued M-Class is what cemented Mercedes’ place in the SUV jungle. The descendent of that pioneering model is the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, which continues as the automaker’s entry into a midsize luxury SUV segment populated by the Acura MDX, Audi Q7, BMW X5, Genesis GV80, and Lexus RX. Mercedes also sells a GLE Coupe that competes with the BMW X6. Changes for 2025 are limited to two new configurations—a GLE 350 SUV base model and GLE 450 4Matic Coupe—and several new paint colors.

Verdict: The GLE-Class is a solid luxury SUV for families, but its competition is equally good.

You can’t miss the Willys ’41 Special Edition. It has exclusive ’41 paint (drab olive green), 17-inch aluminum wheels styled like steelies and dipped in the same color, and a tan soft-top roof. Steel front and rear bumpers, along with 33-inch all-terrain tires, are also standard. Inside, exclusive Heritage Tan cloth seats and an Olive Drab cloth dashboard insert set the 2025 Wrangler 4xe Willys ’41 edition apart. All in, it looks ready to serve.

Verdict: We like the 2025 Wrangler 4xe (and the Wrangler in general), but if you buy one with a conventional mindset regarding comfort, convenience, refinement, and sophistication, this Jeep isn’t right for you. Raw, rugged, and objectively flawed, the Wrangler is about a lifestyle and image, not convenient commuting.