Shopping around Huntington Beach for a cost-effective but worthwhile mid-size SUV? If you’re leaning toward luxury, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE and BMW X5 are among the best. Even so, with its stronger towing capacity and larger cargo area, we’re convinced the critically acclaimed GLE is in a class by itself. To show you what we mean, we’ve compared the BMW X5 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE below!
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| 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE | VS | 2018 BMW X5 |
|---|---|---|
| $52,200 | Starting MSRP | $57,200 |
| $59,740 | Fully Equipped Price | $61,650 |
| 7,200 pounds | Maximum Towing Capacity | 5,952 pounds |
| 80.3 cubic feet | Maximum Cargo Capacity | 76.7 cubic feet |
| Standard | Driver Attention Monitor | Feature Not Offered |
| Standard | Forward Collision Mitigation | Optional |
One of the most notable differences between the BMW X5 vs. Mercedes-Benz GLE SUVs is price. The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 has a starting MSRP of $52,200, while the 2018 BMW X5 starts at $57,200. That’s a difference of about $5,000. Fully equipped, the Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 costs around $59,740. Adding all of the BMW X5 SUV’s available options pushes its price up to $61,650.
The BMW X5 produces more torque than the new GLE, but the latter is the stronger tower. Properly equipped, the GLE can tow up to 7,200 pounds, while the BMW X5 manages just 5,952 pounds. When it comes to cargo space, the GLE wins out again. With its rear seats folded, it offers up to 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space. The BMW X5 isn’t far off, but it can’t quite match the GLE’s dimensions with 76.7 cubic feet. All in all, the GLE offers more of the rugged SUV capability Irvine and Costa Mesa families want.
The 2018 BMW X5 offers a lavish cabin, complete with cargo-area tie-downs, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, genuine wood trim, driver memory settings, heated front seats, telematics, an electronic trunk lid, and a power sunroof. Of course, the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE SUV offers those features, too, and even includes exclusive features like Active Brake Assist, PRESAFE®, and ATTENTION ASSIST®. What’s more, you’ll pocket over $5,000 when you choose the GLE over the BMW X5.
Bottom line: The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE offers more towing power and cargo room than the 2018 BMW X5 and surpasses it in terms of standard safety features. Compare the GLE SUV to the BMW X6, or check out our other BMW vs. Mercedes-Benz comparisons. If the new GLE SUV seems right for you, schedule your test drive at Fletcher Jones Motorcars Newport Beach in Orange County!
