2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Dodge Durango

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured subtle yet impactful aesthetic updates. Its sharper headlights and taillights, along with black fender flares, added a refined edge. The grille, enhanced with chrome inserts, contributed to its sophisticated look. The optional AMG Line package further elevated its sporty appeal, complemented by standard 19-inch wheels, with an option for 21-inch. Inside, the GLE maintained a classic Mercedes-Benz ambiance, rich with leather and soft-touch surfaces. However, the combination of open-pore walnut trim and Bahia Brown seating gave it a dated feel, which could be remedied with lighter leather choices.

In contrast, the 2025 Dodge Durango, particularly the SRT Hellcat Premium with the Silver Bullet special edition package, exuded a bold presence. The satin black hood, unique wheels, and dark badges enhanced its aggressive stance. Inside, the Durango offered a subdued yet premium feel with dark red Nappa leather seats and a suede headliner. Despite its solid construction, some plastic surfaces detracted from its luxury appeal. The Durango's design was both functional and stylish, catering to those seeking a more expressive SUV.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, from the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower to the robust GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. However, the 450e plug-in hybrid stood out with its 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite being slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450, the 450e impressed with its 48-mile electric range, extendable to 55 miles. The transition from electric to gas was seamless, though its driving dynamics were more comfort-oriented than sporty. The 450e's charging capabilities included an 11-kW onboard charger and a 60-kW DC fast charge option.

The 2025 Dodge Durango offered a simplified lineup with powerful options. The SRT Hellcat's supercharged 6.2-liter Hemi V8 produced 710 horsepower and 645 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds and a top speed of 180 mph. It could tow up to 8,700 pounds, making it a versatile choice. However, its fuel economy was a downside, rated at 12/17/13 mpg. The Durango's performance was bolstered by a full-time AWD system, adaptive damping suspension, and Brembo brakes, providing a thrilling driving experience akin to a taller Charger.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxury, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, along with heated and cooled cup holders. The cabin was quiet, featuring ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and a Burmester stereo system. However, the non-extending sun visors were a minor drawback. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and offered 31.5 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2025 Dodge Durango impressed with its spacious and comfortable interior. The SRT Hellcat Premium featured heated and ventilated Nappa leather seats, though they lacked secure support during spirited driving. The second-row captain’s chairs provided good leg support, and the third row was surprisingly accommodating for adults. The Durango offered 17.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 85.1 cubic feet, with thoughtful storage solutions throughout the cabin.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than some Mercedes models, it was functional and easy to navigate. The augmented reality navigation and off-road information features were highlights, though wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto had connectivity issues. Multiple USB-C ports ensured devices stayed charged.

The 2025 Dodge Durango featured the Uconnect 5 system with a 10.1-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a native navigation system. It included SiriusXM services, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The SRT Performance Pages allowed drivers to track performance metrics, adding a sporty touch to the family-friendly SUV.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered advanced driver aids, with standard blind-spot monitoring and optional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. It received a five-star side crash rating from NHTSA and top scores from IIHS, though the Driver Assistance Package Plus added to the cost.

The 2025 Dodge Durango's safety features were basic, with standard forward-collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. Optional upgrades included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. It earned a four-star overall rating from NHTSA, but its performance in IIHS tests was concerning, particularly in the small overlap frontal-impact test.