2024 Honda Passport vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Honda Passport retained much of its familiar design, despite Honda's recent updates across its lineup. While it received some tweaks in 2022, such as a more upright grille and squared-off corners, it largely echoed previous-generation designs. The Passport offered three trim levels—EX-L, TrailSport, and Black Edition—all featuring leather seats, a power moonroof, identical touchscreens, and all-wheel drive. The TrailSport trim, tested for its rugged appeal, included all-terrain tires and roof rails but lacked true off-road enhancements like metal skid plates or recovery points. Inside, the Passport maintained a simple, utilitarian design with physical controls, an 8-inch touchscreen, and black leather upholstery with orange stitching.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 and facelifted for 2024, showcased a unique design with a rounded profile and squared-off wheel arches. Its styling, though not the most handsome, adhered to Mercedes' brand identity. For 2025, new paint colors and Manufaktur interior options were introduced, offering a luxurious feel with Nappa leather upholstery. The GLE's interior featured upscale elements like chunky air vents, mesh speaker grilles, and ambient lighting, creating a special atmosphere. However, its proportions, especially in Coupe models, appeared somewhat awkward, with a bulky lower body and fastback-style roofline.

The 2024 Honda Passport featured a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. Managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, it offered smooth acceleration, though peak torque required higher RPMs. The Passport's fuel economy was rated at 19 mpg city, 24 highway, and 21 combined. The TrailSport trim included mechanical changes for off-road capability, such as wider tracks and tuned suspension. All Passports came with Honda's torque-vectoring AWD system and a traction-management system. Despite some road noise at highway speeds, the Passport's steering was well-balanced and accurate. Its towing capacity maxed out at 5,000 pounds.

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 four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic had a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 375 hp, while the GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 510 hp. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 hp and the GLE 63 S with 603 hp. The GLE 63 S delivered thrilling acceleration and a classic V8 soundtrack. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, with adaptive air suspension and an active anti-roll system unable to make it nimble in tight spaces.

The 2024 Honda Passport excelled in cargo space, offering 41.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats and expanding to 77.7 cubic feet with seats folded. It comfortably accommodated five adults, though rear-seat legroom was slightly tighter than some competitors. The front featured a redesigned center console for more storage. The Passport's interior was practical, with ample cupholders and storage space.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE came in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row space specs weren't published. It offered competitive headroom and slightly more second-row legroom than rivals. Cargo space was 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The GLE's center console provided reasonable storage, and its towing capacity reached 7,700 pounds.

The 2024 Honda Passport included an 8-inch touchscreen, standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. While the screen offered sharp resolution, its size felt small for the cabin. The TrailSport trim's navigation system had some usability issues, and the seven-speaker audio system was underwhelming compared to competitors.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Multiple access methods were available, 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 utility.

The 2024 Honda Passport came standard with forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Despite these features, it received mixed crash test ratings, with an "Acceptable" from IIHS and five stars overall from NHTSA.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered numerous driver-assist features, though some were optional. Standard features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech received mixed ratings.