In the highly competitive luxury SUV segment, the BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE have long been two of the most prominent contenders. As we look ahead to the 2025 model year, expect the BMW X5 to maintain its position as a leader in the segment, offering a compelling package of style, performance, and technology. This article examines how the 2025 BMW X5 stacks up against its rival, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Exterior Design and Styling
The 2025 BMW X5 builds upon the bold, athletic design language, making it a favorite if you're looking for a luxury SUV. Compared to the significant refresh of the 2024 model, the changes for the 2025 model year are relatively minor. The X5 still boasts a commanding presence on the road, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE opts for a more understated, elegant approach to its exterior styling.
The BMW X5 and Mercedes-Benz GLE are closely matched in terms of dimensions, with both vehicles offering ample space for your passengers and cargo. The X5's slightly larger proportions give it a more imposing stance. The GLE's sleeker lines give it a more streamlined appearance, contrasting with the X5's imposing stance.
Interior Cabin and Comfort
The 2025 BMW X5 showcases the brand's commitment to craftsmanship and technology. The cabin features high-quality materials, such as Sensafin or leather upholstery, and a modern, minimalist design. The centerpiece of the interior is the large, curved display, which integrates a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 14.9-inch central information display running BMW's latest iDrive 8.5 software.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE also offers a luxurious, well-appointed interior focusing on comfort and refinement. The MBUX infotainment system is a standout feature, providing intuitive control over the vehicle's various functions and features.
The X5 and GLE offer spacious, versatile interiors. The BMW provides 40/20/40 split-folding rear seats and up to 72.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity. The Mercedes-Benz GLE is similarly accommodating, offering up to 74.9 cubic feet of trunk space. The expansive cargo capacity ensures that both vehicles are suitable if you have a family or active lifestyle.
Performance and Powertrain Options
The 2025 BMW X5 offers a range of powerful and efficient powertrains to suit various driving preferences. The standard X5 is available in sDrive40i rear-wheel-drive and xDrive40i all-wheel-drive configurations, both powered by BMW's renowned B58 3.0-liter inline-six engine. It comes paired with a smooth-shifting ZF eight-speed automatic transmission system. These variants return identical fuel economy figures of 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway for a combined 25 mpg.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE also offers a selection of potent engines, including a turbocharged four-cylinder, a turbocharged inline-six, and a twin-turbocharged V-8. Each GLE engine configuration delivers varying combined system output, from 255 horsepower in the GLE 350 model to 510 horsepower in the GLE 580 trim level. The EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings for the GLE include 21 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway for a combined 24 mpg.
If you're looking for even more greater performance, the X5 M60i features a twin-turbocharged V-8 engine that produces an impressive 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque.
The X5 xDrive50e plug-in hybrid combines the B58 engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 483 horsepower and 516 lb-ft of torque, along with an all-electric range of 38 miles. The BMW X5's offerings provide a slightly more engaging, dynamic driving experience.
Driving Dynamics and Handling
BMW has long been known for its expertise in crafting vehicles that prioritize driver engagement, and the 2025 X5 is no exception. The SUV's well-tuned suspension, responsive steering, and advanced chassis control systems work together to provide a confident and agile driving experience. The two-axle air suspension available as an option for all models except the plug-in hybrid, further enhances the X5's ride quality and handling.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE also delivers a composed, comfortable ride thanks to its advanced air suspension system and well-calibrated steering. The X5's more enthusiast-oriented tuning gives it a slight edge in terms of overall driving dynamics.
Safety and Driver-Assistance Features
The 2025 BMW X5 and 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offer a comprehensive suite of active and passive safety features and advanced driver-assistance technologies. The X5 comes standard with BMW's Active Driving Assistant, which includes features such as lane departure warning, frontal collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The newest model also inherits the innovative eye-detection lane-change technology that debuted on the new 5 Series.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE also boasts an impressive array of safety features, including the brand's PRE-SAFE system, which can detect impending collisions and take preventive measures to protect you and your passenger. We expect both vehicles to perform well in crash tests and receive high safety scores from independent testing organizations.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2025 BMW X5 starts at $65,700 for the sDrive40i model, with prices increasing to $68,000 for the xDrive40i, $73,100 for the xDrive50e plug-in hybrid, and $90,000 for the high-performance M60i. The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE starts at $62,650 for the GLE 350 and increases to $69,500 for the GLE 450. The GLE 580 has an MSRP of $86,700.
While the X5 may carry a slightly higher price tag than some of its competitors, it justifies its premium with its engaging driving dynamics, advanced technology features, and overall refinement. Prices have generally increased across the board for the 2025 model year, but only on packages with more content.
Ready To Choose Between the 2025 BMW X5 and 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE?
The 2025 BMW X5 and 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE are exceptional luxury SUVs offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and technology. While the Mercedes-Benz GLE excels in terms of comfort and refinement, the BMW X5's sportier driving dynamics and cutting-edge features give it a definite edge in this competitive segment.
If you prioritize driving engagement and advanced technology, you may find the BMW X5 more appealing. Contact us at BMW of York to explore our latest BMW X5 models and book a test drive.