2026 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of ten versions, priced between $63,600 and $134,500, with assembly taking place in Alabama. The base model, the GLE 350, featured rear-wheel drive and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the high-end AMG GLE 63 S Coupe boasted a twin-turbo V8 engine and standard all-wheel drive. Our focus was on the GLE 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology. The GLE 450 came with standard all-wheel drive, except for the base model, and included the Exclusive Package and the Manufaktur Edition Package, priced at $79,100. The Manufaktur Edition added exclusive features like 21-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and Nappa leather. Despite its luxurious interior, the GLE's exterior design was considered bland, though the GLE Coupe's roofline improved its aesthetics.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas, particularly in the SEL Premium R-Line trim, exuded a sense of luxury. Starting at $56,105, it was more affordable than some competitors, like the BMW X5. The Atlas featured full-LED lighting, power-adjustable heated side mirrors, and a sculpted silhouette. The Peak Edition added rugged elements, while the SEL Premium R-Line included power-folding side mirrors and 21-inch alloy wheels. The interior boasted quilted diamond-pattern leather seats, metallic accents, and a 12-inch touchscreen. Despite its upscale appearance, the Atlas faced criticism for its ride quality, especially with larger wheels. However, it excelled in providing a spacious and comfortable environment for passengers and cargo.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLE 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and included off-road features like Downhill Speed Regulation and a "transparent hood" camera view. However, the standard suspension allowed excessive body motion, affecting its performance in city and mountain driving. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode, and the brakes were grabby in typical driving situations. The GLE achieved 21 mpg in combined driving, matching EPA estimates.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The engine's wide powerband provided flexibility, but initial acceleration felt adequate rather than eager. The Atlas achieved a zero-to-60 mph time of 8.3 seconds. It offered a Drive Mode Select system with Eco, Comfort, Sport, Custom, and Snow options. The Atlas recorded 22 mpg during testing, slightly better than the EPA's 21 mpg estimate. The 4Motion AWD system performed well in rain and light snow, but the ride quality suffered due to the large wheels, transmitting vibrations and harshness.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured firm yet comfortable front seats with heating and "energizing seat kinetics." The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. The back seat was roomy but had a low seating position relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was an expensive option, providing additional seating with USB-C charging ports. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. Thoughtful storage solutions and a power rear liftgate enhanced its practicality.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in accommodating passengers and cargo. The SEL Premium R-Line's front seats were heated, ventilated, and equipped with massage functions. The second row featured captain's chairs that folded flat and tipped forward for easy access to the third row. The third-row seats provided decent leg support and legroom. The Atlas offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 55.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a total of 96.6 cubic feet with all seats down. It provided competitive space across all three rows and ample cargo capacity.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system offered lush graphics, biometric authentication, and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system, Dolby Atmos technology, and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas came with a 12-inch touchscreen running the MIB3 operating system, a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and wireless charging. The SEL Premium R-Line added a Harman Kardon audio system, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system. However, the MIB3 system was frustrating to use, with touch-sensitive controls that were invisible at night. The voice control system was unreliable, making Apple CarPlay or Android Auto the preferred options.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other advanced features. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel rim were notable features. However, the route-based speed-adjustment feature and automated lane-change assist functioned inconsistently. The GLE received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for 2025, but its front-crash prevention tech earned low ratings.

The 2026 Volkswagen Atlas earned a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ designation from the IIHS for 2025. The IQ.Drive suite of driver assistance features was standard across all trims, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitors, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The systems performed reliably during testing, even in Seattle traffic. The SEL Premium R-Line added Park Assist, but the Atlas was easy to maneuver without it.