The Indian luxury SUV market has never been more competitive, and leading the charge are two German powerhouses, the Mercedes-Benz GLE and the BMW X5. Both SUVs offer powerful engines, premium interiors, advanced technology, and a commanding road presence that turns heads.
In this Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5 comparison, we explore every aspect, from design and performance to comfort, safety, and pricing, to help you determine which luxury SUV aligns perfectly with your lifestyle, family needs, and driving preferences.
Mercedes GLE Design & Exterior
The Mercedes GLE's AMG Line exterior delivers a bold, athletic presence through sleek styling and premium details.
- Sleek AMG Line styling with sporty front and rear aprons featuring chrome inserts and distinctive air intakes
- Iconic diamond grille with integrated chrome Mercedes star and single louvre in matt dark grey
- MULTIBEAM LED adaptive headlamps with Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus for superior visibility
- Aerodynamic lines enhancing stability, efficiency, and road presence
- 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke alloy wheels in high-sheen tremolite grey or high-gloss black finishes
- EASY-PACK powered tailgate for effortless loading and convenience
BMW X5 Design & Exterior
The BMW X5 xDrive40i combines elegance with a sporty stance through its modern design elements and premium detailing.
- Bold kidney grille with larger dimensions and active air stream flaps for optimal cooling and aerodynamics
- Adaptive Matrix LED headlamps with dynamic cornering lights and signature LED DRLs for enhanced visibility
- Sporty front bumper with aerodynamic contours and optional M Sport package for aggressive styling
- 21-inch alloy wheels in various designs with optional 22-inch wheels for a commanding road presence
- Sculpted side profile with sharp character lines and muscular wheel arches
- Power tailgate with hands-free opening for convenience in loading and unloading
Interior & Comfort Mercedes GLE 300d
- Dual 12.3-inch digital displays (instrument + infotainment)
- “Hey Mercedes,” voice assistant for navigation and media
- Ambient lighting with 64 customizable colours
- Heated, ventilated, and massage-enabled front seats
- Premium ARTICO leather & walnut wood trim
- Temperature-controlled cup holders
Interior & Comfort BMW X5
- Curved widescreen: 12.3-inch instrument + 14.9-inch infotainment
- BMW iDrive interface with the latest ConnectedDrive
- Comfort seats with electric adjustment and memory function
- Four-zone climate control
- Harman Kardon surround sound system
Mercedes GLE 300d Engine & Performance
The Mercedes GLE 300d 4MATIC LWB delivers refined diesel performance through its efficient 2.0L turbocharged engine with mild-hybrid assistance.
|
Specification |
Mercedes GLE 300d 4MATIC LWB |
|
Engine Type |
OM654 2.0L 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel |
|
Displacement |
1993 cc |
|
Max Power |
269 hp (198 kW) @ 4200 rpm |
|
Max Torque |
550 Nm @ 1800-2200 rpm |
|
0-100 km/h |
6.9 seconds |
|
Top Speed |
230 km/h |
BMW X5 Engine & Performance
The BMW X5 xDrive40i petrol variant delivers thrilling performance from its 3.0L turbocharged six-cylinder engine with 48V mild-hybrid support, paired to an 8-speed Steptronic transmission and adaptive air suspension for refined dynamics.
|
Specification |
BMW X5 xDrive40i (Petrol) |
|
Engine Type |
B58 3.0L 6-cylinder turbo petrol |
|
Displacement |
2998 cc |
|
Max Power |
381 bhp @ 5200-6500 rpm |
|
Transmission |
8-speed Steptronic automatic |
|
0-100 km/h |
5.4 seconds |
|
Top Speed |
250 km/h (electronically limited) |
Technology of Mercedes GLE 300d
- MBUX system with natural voice control
- Online navigation and real-time updates
- Touchpad and steering wheel touch controls
- Optional Burmester® surround sound with Dolby Atmos (590W)
Technology of BMW X5
- Latest BMW iDrive system with curved screen
- Advanced parking assistance
- Keyless operation
- Digital driver assistance and connected services
Safety Features of Mercedes-Benz GLE
- 9+ airbags, including knee and rear side airbags
- Active Brake Assist with pedestrian detection
- Blind Spot Assist
- Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus
- 360° camera system with Active Parking Assist
- Geo-fencing & speed alert via Mercedes me app
Safety Features BMW X5
- Full range of airbags
- Advanced brake assist
- Blind spot monitoring
- Parking sensors and 360° camera
- Adaptive suspension improves vehicle stability
Mercedes-Benz GLE – Variant Specifications Table
|
Variant |
Engine |
Power |
Torque |
0–100 km/h |
Top Speed |
Price (Approx) |
|
GLE 300d 4MATIC |
2.0L Diesel |
269 hp |
550 Nm |
6.9 sec |
230 km/h |
₹1.16 Cr |
|
GLE 450d 4MATIC |
3.0L Diesel |
367 hp |
750 Nm |
5.6 sec |
250 km/h |
₹1.34 Cr |
|
GLE 450 4MATIC |
3.0L Petrol |
381 hp |
500 Nm |
5.6 sec |
250 km/h |
₹1.28 Cr |
BMW X5 – Variant Specifications Table
|
Variant |
Engine |
Power |
Torque |
0–100 km/h |
Top Speed |
Price (Approx) |
|
X5 xDrive30d |
3.0L Diesel |
286 bhp |
650 Nm |
6.1 sec |
245 km/h |
₹1.00 Cr |
|
X5 xDrive30d M Pro |
3.0L Diesel |
286 bhp |
650 Nm |
6.1 sec |
245 km/h |
₹1.15 Cr |
|
X5 xDrive40i |
3.0L Petrol |
381 bhp |
520 Nm |
5.4 sec |
250 km/h |
₹1.02 Cr |
|
X5 xDrive40i M Pro |
3.0L Petrol |
381 bhp |
520 Nm |
5.4 sec |
250 km/h |
₹1.13 Cr |
Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5
|
Feature |
Mercedes GLE |
BMW X5 |
|
Starting Price |
₹1.16 Cr |
₹1.00 Cr |
|
Engine Options |
2.0L diesel, 3.0L diesel, 3.0L petrol |
3.0L diesel, 3.0L petrol |
|
Power |
269–381 hp |
286–381 bhp |
|
Torque |
500–750 Nm |
520–650 Nm |
|
0–100 km/h |
5.6–6.9 sec |
5.4–6.1 sec |
|
Infotainment |
Dual 12.3-inch screens |
12.3 + 14.9-inch curved |
|
Rear Seat Comfort |
LWB, very spacious |
Standard |
Conclusion
When it comes to Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5, the choice depends on what you value most in a luxury SUV. The Mercedes GLE excels in comfort, long-distance cruising, LWB spaciousness, premium technology, and refined diesel torque, making it perfect for families and luxury enthusiasts. On the other hand, the BMW X5 stands out for its performance, sporty handling, aggressive styling, and a technology-rich cabin, making it ideal for driving enthusiasts who prioritize road presence and responsiveness.
Bottom line:
- GLE = Luxury & Comfort Champion
- X5 = Sporty Performance & Driving Pleasure
Both are top-tier German SUVs, and in the Mercedes GLE vs BMW X5 comparison, your final decision hinges on whether you prefer maximum comfort or thrilling driving excitement.
