2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Chevrolet Suburban

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban had a long-standing presence in the automotive world, being a familiar sight on the roads due to its 90-year legacy. Despite its massive size, it blended into traffic, serving as a staple for those needing ample cargo and passenger space. The Suburban stretched nearly 19 feet and stood over six feet tall, making it a challenge in urban settings but ideal for those requiring its vast capabilities. It was available in six trims, each offering increasing levels of luxury, though some features remained optional even at the highest levels. Inside, the Suburban provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with leather upholstery standard on most trims. However, even the top-spec models felt somewhat ordinary, with supportive but not overly plush seating.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, redesigned in 2020 and facelifted for 2024, offered a distinct look with a rounded profile and a wide stance. Its styling, while not the most attractive in the lineup, was unmistakably Mercedes. The GLE introduced new paint and interior options, enhancing its appeal. Inside, the GLE impressed with its upscale feel, featuring elements like chunky air vents and ambient lighting. The Yacht Blue interior of the test car stood out, and the overall design felt luxurious. However, the GLE's proportions and styling choices, especially in the Coupe models, were polarizing.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine options: a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel with 277 horsepower. The diesel engine was praised for its fuel efficiency and smooth performance, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing economy. The Suburban's 10-speed automatic transmission was well-tuned, though the electronic button-style shift mechanism might not appeal to everyone. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available on most trims. Despite its size, the Suburban handled well, though drivers needed to account for its weight and potential body roll.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and AMG variants. The GLE 350 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 255 horsepower, while the GLE 450 offered a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 horsepower. The GLE 580 boasted a 4.0-liter V8 with 510 horsepower. AMG models provided even more power, with the GLE 63 S delivering 603 horsepower. The GLE impressed with its performance, especially in AMG spec, though it felt larger than it was, affecting maneuverability. Despite advanced features like adaptive air suspension, the GLE struggled with nimbleness in tight spaces.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban excelled in cargo space, offering 41.5 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 144.7 cubic feet with all seats folded. This made it a top choice for those needing maximum carrying capacity. The Suburban's 28-gallon fuel tank, combined with the diesel engine's efficiency, allowed for long highway drives between fill-ups.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two- and three-row configurations, though third-row space specs were not published. The GLE provided competitive cargo space, with 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. It offered a high seating position, though visibility was limited. The GLE's towing capacity of 7,700 pounds was impressive, matching some competitors.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban featured a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-in, offering seamless access to apps like Google Maps. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were included, and a rear-seat entertainment system was available. However, the 10-speaker Bose audio system lacked depth compared to competitors' offerings.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted dual 12.3-inch screens with the MBUX system, supporting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The interface could be accessed through various methods, though the voice recognition system was particularly effective. AMG models offered additional drive modes and settings, enhancing the driving experience. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function added to the GLE's versatility.

The 2024 Chevrolet Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with various driver assistance features standard across trims. Super Cruise, a semi-autonomous driving system, was available on higher trims, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped roads.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE included numerous standard safety features, though adaptive cruise control was optional. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention ratings were mixed. The NHTSA had not yet rated the 2025 model.