2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, with its 2024 facelift, retained a unique design that set it apart from other Mercedes SUVs. It featured a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors, with squared-off wheel arches and a horizontal grille that gave it a wide stance. The GLE's styling, though not the most attractive in the lineup, was unmistakably Mercedes. New paint options and Manufaktur interiors added personalization, with the Yacht Blue interior standing out for its upscale feel.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade boasted a bold design that differentiated it from other SUVs. The 2023 refresh introduced a more angular look, enhancing its upscale appearance. Inside, even the base model offered a modern and premium feel, with higher trims featuring luxury touches like premium leather and metal speaker grilles. Thoughtful details, such as USB ports in seatbacks and smartphone storage, added to its appeal.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 255 horsepower. 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. 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. Despite impressive power, the GLE felt larger than it was, making maneuvering challenging.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade came with a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower. It offered a smooth ride, though firm at lower speeds and softer on highways. The Palisade excelled in comfort and power, with a refined V6 and silky transmission shifts. However, it was less fuel-efficient, recording 16.9 mpg in city driving. The Palisade's handling was satisfactory, with well-calibrated brakes and reasonable road feel.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE was available in two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs weren't published. It offered competitive cargo space, with 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row and 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The GLE's towing capacity reached 7,700 pounds. Interior space was generous, especially in the second row, but visibility was limited.

The Hyundai Palisade featured three rows, with our test vehicle offering a seven-passenger setup. The Calligraphy trim included Nappa leather, massaging front seats, and heated third-row seats. Storage was thoughtful, with adjustable cupholders and smartphone trays. The Smart Liftgate added convenience, and cargo space was ample, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row and 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The GLE's technology included dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital cluster and infotainment. The MBUX system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with multiple access methods. AMG models had additional drive modes and off-road displays. The voice recognition system was effective, simplifying access to functions.

The Palisade's tech, though slightly dated, was functional. It featured a 12.3-inch digital display and touchscreen, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Bluetooth support, wireless charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Voice recognition was impressive, and the Palisade offered a head-up display and surround-view camera.

The Mercedes-Benz GLE came with standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though front-crash prevention ratings were mixed.

The Hyundai Palisade included standard safety features under Hyundai SmartSense, such as forward collision warning and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims added features like Blind Spot View Monitor and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Palisade received a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS through 2024 but missed it in 2025 due to a Poor rating in a new test. NHTSA ratings included five-star frontal impact and four-star rollover resistance.