2023 BMW X5 xDrive 40i Vs Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC
Giancarlo Perlas March 24, 2023Since the Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV was called the ML-Class, it has been constantly pitted against the BMW X5. After all, they have always been head-to-head in the same segment of the market. Recently, Car Confessions placed the two side-by-side, giving us a point-by-point analysis of their key features.
The video starts things off by giving us an idea of the prevailing prices of the two luxury SUVs in the US. The chosen models representing each midsize SUV range are the BMW X5 xDrive 40i worth $63,900 ($79,175 with the optional equipment and destination charges) and the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC priced at $66,450 ($84,770 with the optional equipment and destination fees).
Obviously, the GLE starts with the 350 trim in the US, but the presenter somehow chose the 450 trim. That’s because he thinks that the former has more limited optional add-ons and it’s not at par with the performance levels of its BMW contemporary.
In the video, the two are compared for their exterior and interior designs. When it comes to the exterior, each luxury SUV definitely stands outs on its own. Both possess smooth body panels accentuated by mild body lines and creases that produce visually sophisticated effects in different lighting conditions. Their dimensions are almost alike, too. It should be noted though that both are receiving updates going to their 2024 models.
Additionally, a tour of their respective interiors shows us the quilted synthetic leather used for their upholstery plus the tech each one uses. While each comes with its own signature tech for its infotainment system, the Bimmer here is a notch above the Merc for its head-up display.
Lastly, the powertrains of the two are examined as well as their driving quality and ride comfort. As a quick note, the GLE slightly has the numbers in its favor with its mild-hybrid 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. The configuration lets its speed up from 0 to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds.
Meanwhile, the X5 has the same specs but with a bit lesser output at 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque. However, it possesses a better 0-60 mph acceleration at 5.3 seconds.
The Verdict
As Mercedes fanboys, we are all naturally rooting for the GLE here. Featurewise, it’s definitely better than the X5 so it was surely leading going to the last leg of the video. But then again, the presenter suddenly awarded the win to the X5 just because it had more value for money considering its lower pricing with all the bells and whistles installed. Overall, that’s a good $5,575 price difference between the two.
Nevertheless, he reminds viewers that at the end of the day, the choice definitely boils down to buyer preference. Click the video below to watch for yourselves how the comparison all went down.
