The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and the Lexus RX have long enjoyed privileged positions in the market of luxury crossovers. The GLE-Class is the luxury champ, bringing a prestigious badge and Mercedes-Benz pedigree. Meanwhile, the RX is a pleasant alternative to the Germans, offering practicality and reliability with excellent value. The sales numbers have proven its success. But the GLE-Class is fresh off a redesign, and Lexus has been on a mission to sharpen its lineup. How do the two stack up? We took a closer look to find out.
See a side-by-side comparison of the RX & GLE-Class »
What the RX Gets Right
What draws most buyers to the Lexus RX is its starting price. The base RX 350 starts at $44,595, which is $10,100 cheapter than a base Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. The most expensive RX, the RX 450h F Sport, is still cheaper than the base GLE-Class model.
Even with the price deficit, the RX comes with more standard power. The 3.5-liter V6 inside the base RX produces 295 horsepower, compared to just 255 hp in the GLE 350.
For a surprisingly modest price premium, buyers can opt for the hybrid RX 450h. Even with standard all-wheel drive, the 450h manages an EPA-estimated 30 miles per gallon combined, far better than the 22 mpg combined of the GLE-Class.
Don’t let the price difference fool you, either – this is still a comfortable car. Typical Lexus virtues like a smooth ride and a quiet cabin are as present as ever.
What the GLE-Class Gets Right
Although the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class commands a significant price premium, it does pack in more features. All-wheel drive is standard (although a rear-wheel drive option may join later this year), and even base models come with features like a 12.3-inch touchscreen running the brand's latest MBUX infotainment system. Notably, that system includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility, which the Lexus RX can’t match.
The exterior shows a similar attention to detail. Lexus’s new “spindle” grille design has been polarizing, but the GLE-Class looks as classic as ever.
Although the RX has the edge on power in the base model, the GLE-Class model range extends far past the GLE 350. The GLE 450 offers a six-cylinder engine producing 362 hp, and things only go up from there – the AMG GLE 63 S produces a staggering 577 hp. By contrast, the performance-oriented RX F Sport adds no extra power – it just pipes more exhaust noise into the cabin.
Although the third row is cramped in both, the RX's is suitable only for children. The GLE-Class can seat adults back there in a pinch.
How Much Is a Badge Worth?
Deciding between these two SUVs comes down to one question: is the added polish and performance of the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class worth the not-inconsiderable price increase? The RX isn’t spartan even in base form, and an extra 10 grand goes a long way.
For buyers who don’t like to compromise, the GLE-Class may be worth the money. Performance enthusiasts will delight in the engine options, and the polished interior makes every passenger comfortable.
Our Verdict: Lexus RX
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class will draw its fair share of buyers, many based on the badge alone. After the redesign, it’s as strong a contender as ever. But the Lexus RX brings too much value to ignore. The design may be sharper, but this is still a Lexus that's comfortable, safe, and practical. Added to the savings, that’s a tempting package.
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