2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibited subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes. The headlights and taillights were sharper, complemented by black fender flares over the wheel arches. The grille featured chrome inserts, adding a touch of elegance. The optional AMG Line package enhanced the sportiness of the exterior, with a distinct grille and the choice of 19-inch standard wheels or optional 21-inch wheels. Inside, the cabin maintained the classic Mercedes-Benz luxury with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though it lacked the futuristic vibe of the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was a standout feature, though the Bahia Brown seating surfaces in the tester gave the cabin a dated look. Opting for lighter leather could remedy this design choice.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox underwent a significant redesign, aligning its modern look with the larger Chevrolet Traverse. The flat roof, upright grille, and “shark fin” C-pillar gave it a more robust appearance. Each trim had distinct styling elements, with the base Equinox LT offering chrome or a Midnight Edition High Gloss Black treatment. The RS trim featured sportier elements like black mirrors and badges, while the new ACTIV trim showcased dark chrome and simpler grille inserts. The interior styling set the 2025 Equinox apart from its predecessors, with a new round vent design and a more open center console. The RS and ACTIV trims offered unique interior themes, with the RS featuring red highlights and the ACTIV sporting a two-tone black and tan theme.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier 4.0-liter V8 in the GLE 580. However, the 450e plug-in hybrid was the standout, combining a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. Despite being slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to its 23.3-kWh battery, the 450e impressed with its 48-mile all-electric range, which exceeded expectations at 55 miles after charging. The transition from electric to gas power was seamless, though the Sport mode did little to enhance driving dynamics. The 450e featured an 11-kW onboard charger and could accept a 60-kW DC fast charge.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox retained its 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 175 horsepower. Torque varied with powertrain, offering 184 lb-ft in FWD models and 203 lb-ft in AWD versions. The FWD models featured a CVT, while AWD models came with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which improved gear shifting and noise levels. The Equinox's accelerator was responsive at low speeds, though highway merging highlighted the engine's limitations. The AWD Equinox could tow up to 1,500 pounds, and selectable drive modes were introduced, allowing drivers to switch between Normal, Snow, and Off-Road modes.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, with standard heated front seats and optional ventilation and massage functions. Heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and soft-close doors added to the comfort. The Burmester stereo system provided an exceptional audio experience. However, the non-extending sun visors were a minor drawback. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space was ample, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox offered heated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard on RS and ACTIV trims. A $950 package added front seat ventilation, heated rear seats, and driver’s seat memory. The Evotex seats felt premium, and the flat roof provided consistent headroom throughout the cabin. The moonroof extended into the rear seats, enhancing light for passengers. The Equinox's cargo space was slightly reduced, with 29.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. A hidden storage compartment added convenience.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the latest MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than those in other Mercedes models, it was functional and easy to navigate. The augmented reality navigation system was a highlight, overlaying numerical addresses and turn arrows on a video feed. The MBUX system included an off-road page with detailed information, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, though connectivity issues were noted.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox came standard with Google Built-In, offering wireless connectivity for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The native Google Maps integration was particularly useful, allowing simultaneous infotainment activities without interrupting navigation. However, voice control volume issues were noted in the RS trim. The Equinox's tech features were mostly standard, including an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wi-fi hotspot capability, and a six-speaker audio system. Wireless charging was standard on RS and ACTIV trims.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver’s aids, with blind-spot monitoring as standard. The optional Driver Assistance Package Plus added features like active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA, while the IIHS awarded it top scores in crashworthiness and crash avoidance.

The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox included most safety features as standard, with an optional Safety & Technology package adding rear pedestrian alert and other features. The Chevy Safety Assist suite offered enhanced automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. Teen Driver Technology remained a notable feature, allowing parents to set speed and volume limitations and receive a driving report card.