2025 BMW X3 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 BMW X3 presented a seductive appearance for a two-box SUV, with its redesigned features capturing attention. Despite the oversized grille, the vehicle's overall proportions, including a long hood and tapering roofline, contributed to its athletic look. The test model, adorned in Arctic Race Blue paint, complemented the machined surface wheel finish and gloss black M Sport details. Inside, the cabin offered quality materials, though some plastic elements revealed the X3's price point. The interior was functional, with nifty ambient lighting, but lacked some expected refinements in lower cabin areas.

In contrast, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of versions, with the GLE 450 model featuring a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. The test vehicle, equipped with the Exclusive and Manufaktur Edition Packages, showcased exclusive paint, 21-inch wheels, and a luxurious interior with Nappa leather. While the exterior design was considered bland, the interior boasted elegant details and quality materials. The GLE's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with thoughtful storage solutions and a generous cargo area. However, the seating position in the back was noted to be low relative to the window sills.

The 2025 BMW X3 30 xDrive featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Despite its 4,176-pound weight, the X3 achieved a zero-to-60 mph time of six seconds, thanks to its eight-speed automatic transmission and standard xDrive AWD system. The engine's power curve provided peak torque from 1,600 rpm to near redline at 6,500 rpm. The X3 also included a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing off-the-line responsiveness. For those seeking more power, the M50 xDrive variant offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 393 horsepower and 428 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero-to-60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The X3's sport-tuned suspension and performance tires delivered an engaging driving experience, though the ride quality was firm on imperfect roads.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid system, generated 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLE offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. It boasted a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and off-road capabilities. However, the standard suspension allowed excessive body motion, impacting the driving experience. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode, and the brakes were grabby in typical driving situations. The GLE excelled as a long-distance road tripper, with a quiet cabin and decent fuel economy, achieving 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 BMW X3 provided a spacious interior with a power-adjustable driver's seat offering a sports car-like view. The dashboard featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The front seats were comfortable, with power adjustment and heating, while the rear seats were less comfortable due to their low positioning. The cargo area offered 31.5 cubic feet of space, with a lightweight cargo cover and additional storage under the load floor.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's front seats were firm yet comfortable, with features like "energizing seat kinetics" and ventilated options. The back seat was roomy, though the low seating position relative to the window sills was noted. A third-row seat was available as an option. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The cargo area included thoughtful storage solutions and a large spare tire under the load floor.

The 2025 BMW X3 featured the BMW Curved Display with iDrive 9 software, offering a user-friendly experience with Quick Select menus. However, issues with profile creation and system responsiveness were noted. The navigation system with augmented video provided accurate directions, and wireless Apple CarPlay worked flawlessly. Despite frustrations with the infotainment system, it was suggested that the issues might be unique to the test vehicle.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's MBUX infotainment system ran on dual 12.3-inch displays, offering lush graphics and minimal reflections. The system included a biometric authentication system and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality video for navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2025 BMW X3's driver assistance features were more rewarding than its infotainment system. The standard Active Driving Assistant suite included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and active blind-spot monitoring. The Premium Package added adaptive cruise control and Steering Assistant technology. The X3 earned a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with four-star ratings for the driver and front passenger in the frontal-impact crash test.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety tech included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep and centering assist, and other features. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist was a notable feature. The GLE earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, but the NHTSA had not rated it at the time of writing.