2024 Lexus TX vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, distinguished itself as a luxury SUV with its upscale appearance. Unlike the Grand Highlander, which resembled a larger RAV4, the TX exuded a more refined presence, especially with the Luxury trim's 22-inch silver wheels. Its styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those who preferred a subtler design. The TX came in various models, including the TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $55,050 to $69,350. The TX 350, likely the most popular version, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with options for FWD or AWD. The interior, though dark with its Peppercorn color scheme, offered luxury touches like premium leather and ambient lighting, making it worthy of the Lexus badge.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, refreshed for 2024, maintained its unique identity among Mercedes SUVs. It shared some visual bulk with other models but had a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE's styling, especially in the Coupe models, presented odd proportions with a bulky lower body and a fastback-style roofline. However, it remained unmistakably a Mercedes. For 2025, new paint and interior options were available, enhancing personalization. The Yacht Blue interior of the test car stood out, complemented by upscale features like chunky air vents and a Burmester audio system. The GLE's interior felt luxurious and special, with ambient lighting adding to its appeal.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with FWD and 7.8 seconds with AWD. Despite its adequate performance, the engine's noise and torque steer with FWD were drawbacks. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA rating of 23 mpg combined, but during testing, it averaged 20.4 mpg. The AWD option, costing $1,600, offered better traction and slightly quicker acceleration. The TX 350's suspension provided a balanced ride, with commendable body motion control and accurate steering. The interior remained quiet on highways, though the brake pedal felt soft.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic featured a 3.0-liter inline-six with 375 hp, while the GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp and 479 lb-ft. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo V8 with 510 hp. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 hp and the GLE 63 S with 603 hp, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.9 and 3.7 seconds, respectively. The GLE impressed with its refinement, though it felt larger than it was, even with AMG upgrades. Maneuvering in tight spaces was challenging, but the powertrains delivered exceptional performance.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings of Lexus three-row SUVs. It offered a comfortable interior with premium materials, heated and ventilated seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row bench seat was standard, with optional captain's chairs. The third-row seat was habitable for adults, unlike previous models. However, sliding the second-row seat forward for third-row comfort compromised second-row legroom. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 97 cubic feet with all seats folded. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE came in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs weren't published. The front seats offered a high SUV-like position, but visibility was limited. Second-row passengers enjoyed more space than in most rivals, with additional legroom compared to competitors. The GLE provided 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The center console offered reasonable storage, and the GLE's towing capacity reached 7,700 pounds, matching the Audi Q7.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured an optional Technology Package with a 12.3-inch digital panel, head-up display, digital rearview mirror, surround-view camera, and parking assist. However, the unmarked steering wheel controls and head-up display visibility issues were frustrating. The Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a 14-inch touchscreen, offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The TX included free subscriptions to Drive Connect, Service Connect, and Safety Connect, enhancing connectivity and safety. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE's interface consisted of dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a seamless display. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and built-in navigation. Multiple access methods, including a touchpad and voice recognition, were available. The AMG GLE 63 S Coupe featured additional drive modes and settings, accessible via steering wheel dials. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function enhanced the GLE's capabilities. The air suspension and ground clearance adjustments made rough terrain more manageable.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. Proactive Drive Assist added braking and steering assistance, though it wasn't always smooth. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The system generally performed well, though it slowed too dramatically when other vehicles cut in.

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, evasive steering assist, and more. The GLE received a 2025 Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though front-crash prevention ratings were mixed. NHTSA ratings were unavailable at press time.