2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured subtle yet impactful aesthetic updates. Its sharper headlights and taillights, along with black fender flares, added a touch of modernity. The grille, enhanced with chrome inserts, contributed to its refined look. The optional AMG Line package further elevated its sporty appeal, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with an option for 21-inch ones. Inside, the cabin maintained the classic Mercedes-Benz elegance, with leather and soft-touch surfaces. However, the combination of open-pore walnut trim and Bahia Brown seating gave it a dated appearance, which could be improved with lighter leather options.

In contrast, the 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 500h Black Line Special Edition, presented a more understated exterior. Despite its exclusive Incognito paint and orange brake calipers, it lacked standout features. The RX lineup offered three hybrid models, each with distinct power and efficiency levels. The interior boasted quality materials and ambient lighting, though some ergonomic controls were less intuitive. The RX prioritized comfort and practicality, with ample rear seat space and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the experience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, with the 450e plug-in hybrid standing out for its balance of performance and efficiency. It combined a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite its power, the extra weight of the battery made it slightly slower to 60 mph compared to the GLE 450. The 450e could travel up to 55 miles on electric power alone, with seamless transitions between electric and gas modes. However, its driving dynamics were less sporty, with light steering and noticeable body roll.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid offered varied performance across its models. The RX 350h prioritized efficiency with 246 hp, while the RX 450h+ PHEV provided 304 hp and a 6.2-second 0-60 mph time. The RX 500h, with 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, delivered the most power but sacrificed fuel economy. It featured a sport-tuned suspension and advanced all-wheel-drive system, enhancing its handling. However, the RX 500h's driving experience was less engaging, with limited road feedback and occasional drivetrain hesitation.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxury, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with heated and cooled cup holders. Its quiet cabin featured customizable ambient lighting and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE could tow up to 7,700 pounds and offered 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.9 cubic feet. However, the non-extending sun visors were a minor drawback.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid focused on comfort and practicality. The RX 500h's front seats, though snug, offered heating and ventilation. The rear seats provided ample space and comfort, with optional power-reclining features. The RX offered 29.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 46.2 cubic feet. Interior storage was practical, though some compartments lacked lining, causing potential noise issues.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than some rivals, it was user-friendly, with voice control and a touchpad. The augmented reality navigation system and off-road information page were highlights. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto had connectivity issues.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid boasted a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 14-inch touchscreen display. The Lexus Interface infotainment system included a digital voice assistant and cloud-based navigation. While the system was generally effective, steering wheel controls were distracting. The optional Mark Levinson audio system provided excellent sound quality.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with optional features like active blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control. It received high safety ratings, with a five-star side crash rating from NHTSA and top scores from IIHS.

The 2025 Lexus RX Hybrid included Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with features like forward collision warning and adaptive cruise control. It earned a five-star overall safety rating from NHTSA, though IIHS rated it poorly in some tests. The optional surround-view camera was a valuable addition.