2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2025 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, with its 2024 facelift, retained a unique identity among Mercedes SUVs. It shared some visual bulk with the GLS, GLC, and GLB classes but featured a more rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The squared-off wheel arches and horizontal grille gave it a wide stance, while the sharply tapering side glass and rakish windshield added a distinctive touch. However, the proportions appeared odd, especially in the GLE Coupe models, where the bulky lower body contrasted with the fastback-style roofline. Despite not being the most handsome model, its styling adhered closely to Mercedes' brand identity.

For 2025, the GLE offered new customization options, including four new paint colors and Manufaktur interiors available across all models. The interior, with its Yacht Blue option, exuded luxury, featuring Nappa leather upholstery, chunky air vents, and a Burmester audio system. The 64-color ambient lighting added a touch of elegance, transforming the cabin into a vibrant space.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, tested in snowy conditions near Mount Rainier, showcased its capability with the Rock Creek trim. Equipped with 3-Peak Mud-and-Snow-rated tires and standard AWD, it handled the challenging terrain with ease. Redesigned in 2022, the Pathfinder featured an assertive front end, protective cladding, and a stylish C-pillar. The Rock Creek trim added a rugged look with a V-Motion grille, stacked LED lights, and a metal roof rack.

Despite its tough appearance, the Pathfinder remained a unibody crossover, lacking additional ground clearance or skid plates. Inside, the Rock Creek trim offered leatherette-and-cloth upholstery with bright orange logos, while higher trims featured leather and semi-aniline leather seats. The Pathfinder provided comfort with heated seats and a spacious interior, although some features like a heated steering wheel were limited to higher trims.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, starting with the GLE 350's 2.0-liter turbocharged engine producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft 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. 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, delivering impressive acceleration and a thrilling V8 soundtrack. Despite its power, the GLE felt larger than it was, making maneuvering in tight spaces challenging.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 284 hp in most trims and 295 hp in the Rock Creek. A nine-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous CVT, offering smooth shifts. The Pathfinder's towing capacity reached 6,000 pounds with the right equipment. The Rock Creek trim's soft suspension provided comfort but lacked precision on twisty roads. Fuel economy was reasonable, with the Rock Creek achieving 20 mpg city and 23 highway. The Pathfinder's seven drive modes, including Snow and Tow, enhanced traction in various conditions.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row space specs were not published. It provided competitive headroom and legroom, with slightly more space for second-row passengers compared to rivals. Cargo space was 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The GLE's towing capacity reached 7,700 pounds, matching the Audi Q7.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder, while smaller on paper, offered ample interior space. During a ski trip, it comfortably accommodated four adults and their gear. Cargo space was 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with seats folded. The Pathfinder featured three-zone climate control and comfortable seating, with the Rock Creek trim offering captain's chairs and a removable center console. The EZ Flex Seating System allowed easy access to the third row without removing car seats.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. The MBUX system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with multiple access options. Voice recognition simplified navigation, while AMG models offered additional drive modes and settings. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function enhanced the driving experience.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder's tech lagged behind competitors, with an older interface compared to other Nissans. The 8-inch screen in lower trims and 9-inch in higher trims felt small compared to rivals. The Pathfinder offered a 6-speaker stereo, with a 13-speaker Bose system available on higher trims. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were supported, but wireless projection was limited. Navigation was standard only on higher trims, and a head-up display was exclusive to the Platinum trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech had mixed ratings.

The 2025 Nissan Pathfinder earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It came with a comprehensive suite of ADAS, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. Adaptive cruise control and ProPilot Assist were standard on most trims, with traffic sign recognition available on higher trims.