A few weeks after the introduction of the BMW X5 G05 , Mercedes-Benz is now presenting its most important competitor worldwide: the new Mercedes GLE targets exactly the same target group and will celebrate its market launch in early 2019 – a few months after the new X5. Our image comparison visually compares the two premium SUVs ahead of the scheduled test drives which will give us a more comprehensive look at the two cars.

Both vehicles rely on a self-confident front-end with large elements that leave no doubt about their brand affiliation. The big Mercedes star or the massive double kidney make, without a doubt, a statement. Each with almost three meters wheelbase and almost five meters in length, the dimensions underline the idea behind those SUVs – space, comfort and driving dynamics. Yet, from the point of view of some customers they will still stand in the shadow of their larger sister models – GLS and X7.

The new X5 and the GLE offer a very wide range of infotainment functions, which in the case of the 2019 Mercedes GLE are linked to the MBUX system familiar from the new A-Class. The cockpit of the GLE is equipped as standard with two 12.3-inch displays and reacts even without pressing a button on voice commands, such as “Hey, Mercedes.” The BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant offers a very similar technology, and from the beginning of 2019, it will also be possible to address the “Hey, BMW” in the BMW X5 G05. The BMW X5 G05 is also equipped as standard with two 12.3-inch displays for displaying instruments and infotainment content. Of course, both models are also available with a head-up display without a small plastic disc – a novelty for GLE drivers, X5 riders have known the technology since 2006.

A variety of assistance systems will make life easier for the drivers of the big SUV. In addition to many common features, both models can also provide a unique function: While the Mercedes GLE Traffic Jam Assistant helps to create a rescue lane, the BMW X5 G05 offers a reversing assistant for tight parking garages and other situations.

Mercedes is proud that the 4MATIC all-wheel drive of the new 2019 GLE has a fully variable torque distribution between the front and rear axles, similar to the xDrive system introduced in 2003.

The all-wheel drive of the GLE is combined with various six- and eight-cylinder engines, and a plug-in hybrid as a competitor to the new BMW X5 xDrive45e .