Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was a versatile SUV that offered a range of powertrains, including a turbocharged gas engine, a hybrid system achieving up to 36 mpg, and a robust Hybrid Max configuration with 362 horsepower and full-time AWD. The Grand Highlander was available in several trims, from the base LE to the luxurious Platinum, with prices spanning from $43,855 to $61,770. The top-tier Hybrid Max Platinum model, which we reviewed, featured a Storm Cloud paint finish and a price tag of $61,770. Its design echoed the popular RAV4, scaled up to accommodate up to eight passengers and ample cargo space. Inside, the Grand Highlander prioritized functionality, with a touch of luxury in the Platinum trim, though some materials like glossy hard plastics were evident. The climate controls were user-friendly, but the infotainment system's volume knob was less so.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE, in its fourth generation, received a significant facelift, featuring a star motif in its lights and grille, reminiscent of designer branding. This update applied to both the standard SUV and the sleeker GLE Coupe, though the changes didn't necessarily enhance the overall aesthetics. The GLE retained its rounded silhouette, reminiscent of the old M-Class, but with boxy fenders and squared-off detailing that clashed with its design. The AMG models boasted sportier elements, including larger air intakes and distinctive grilles. Inside, the GLE featured a rearranged dashboard to accommodate the Superscreen display, with material quality varying by trim level. The entry-level models had MB-Tex upholstery, while higher trims offered more luxurious options. The Manufaktur Interior Package added vibrant upholstery colors for those seeking a more personalized touch.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max was designed for performance, combining a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with electronic full-time AWD and two electric motors, delivering 362 horsepower. This setup allowed the Grand Highlander to accelerate swiftly, aided by a traditional six-speed automatic transmission that avoided the droning typical of CVTs. While the Hybrid Max offered impressive power, it came with a fuel economy trade-off, achieving 27 mpg compared to the standard hybrid's 36 mpg. It also boasted a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds. During testing, the Hybrid Max averaged 26 mpg on a balanced city-highway route and 23.3 mpg on a mountainous loop. The powertrain provided confident acceleration, with electric motors eliminating turbo lag. The ride quality was soft and isolating, though road undulations could cause some vertical and lateral movement. Handling was secure but limited, with early tire squeal and understeer when pushed hard. Visibility was excellent, aided by cameras, though the front camera's frequent screen takeover was a minor annoyance.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a wide range of powertrains, including four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines, as well as two plug-in hybrids. All models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD. The base GLE 350 4Matic had a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 530 hp. All engines included a mild-hybrid system for improved efficiency. Mercedes made several tweaks for 2027, including a flat-plane crank for the V8 to reduce emissions. The GLE 580's V8 gained an extra 20 hp, and the inline-six saw a torque increase of 44 lb-ft. The base turbo-four received an electric compressor to minimize lag. The inline-six and V8 impressed with smooth power delivery and quick acceleration, with the V8 offering a special driving experience. The optional air suspension enhanced the luxurious ride, though the GLE wasn't as sporty as some rivals. The GLE 500e 4Matic plug-in hybrid offered 429 hp, while the AMG GLE 53 Hybrid and AMG GLE 63 S delivered even more power with AMG-specific enhancements.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating across all three rows, with nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. However, unlined storage areas could contribute to cabin noise. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery, adding a touch of luxury. The front and second-row seats offered heating, ventilation, and support. The rear doors were long, making child seat installation challenging, and their sharp corners posed a risk to neighboring vehicles. The second-row captain's chairs allowed for easy access to the third row, which was comfortable for adults and tall teens. Behind the third row, the Grand Highlander offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 57.9 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.5 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE continued to offer two- and three-row configurations, with the third row being a tight fit for midsize SUVs. For those needing more space, the full-size GLS was a better option. Interior dimensions remained unchanged, providing class-competitive first-row headroom, though some rivals offered more legroom. The new dashboard improved forward visibility. Standard features included heated power front seats with lumbar support and memory, with ventilation and massage options available. Second-row space was generous, and the SUV models now came with a standard panoramic glass roof. The GLE Coupe's lower roof affected rear-seat headroom and cargo space, with the SUV offering 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with it folded. The GLE's towing capacity remained at 7,700 pounds for non-AMG models.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid featured a 7-inch digital driver display in lower trims, while higher trims received a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel. All models came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Toyota Connected Services provided features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a digital voice assistant. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the inability to view multiple main-menu screens simultaneously was a drawback. The digital voice assistant responded accurately to commands, enhancing the overall experience. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and a JBL premium audio system.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE introduced the Superscreen display, consisting of three 12.3-inch screens forming the dashboard fascia. The MBUX infotainment system, now running on Mercedes' MB.OS operating system, featured an AI-enhanced voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained. While the new system offered flexibility, it didn't significantly improve the already excellent MBUX experience. The augmented-reality head-up display was a new option, projecting navigation arrows for complex intersections. An inward-facing camera and Microsoft Teams App enabled videoconferencing, with a 15-speaker Burmester audio system standard on most models.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid came equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. Proactive Driving Assist was also standard, though it could be irritating in certain situations. The safety tech generally operated with accuracy, though the lane-keep assist occasionally strayed too close to lane markers. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but fell short of the IIHS Top Safety Pick due to headlight performance and frontal-impact protection.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured standard driver-assistance technologies, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go functionality. A parking-assist system and surround-view camera were available, with the latter offering a "transparent hood" view for off-road use. The GLE's sensor suite supported advanced driver-assistance systems, and its headlights could be programmed for adaptive high beams. Crash-test ratings were unavailable at the time, but the 2026 model received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating. Mercedes' Pre-Safe system minimized injury potential in collisions, with features like seatbelt tightening and "pink noise" to prevent hearing loss.