Mercedes, in October last year, launched its new GLE SUV, a replacement for its ML-class of vehicles. Of course, along with the new name came some cosmetic changes and added equipment. Now while the refreshed SUV was an improvement over its predecessor, how has the equation changed with its closest competitor, the BMW X5? To find out, we pit these two butch SUVs against each other.
Performance & refinement
Both the new GLE and X5 engines displace three litres and put out 254bhp. The Merc feels the peppier of the two as power comes in earlier. What also helps is the quick and smooth nine-speed automatic gearbox – it accelerates to 100kph in 7.64secs. Also, it cruises smoothly due to the new gearbox, doing 100kph just off the engine’s idling speed at 1,200rpm. The engine is quite refined, only getting vocal near the redline.
Ride & handling
Air suspension is standard on the new GLE. The ride feels nice and plush in Comfort as it rides over rutted roads with great suppleness and only a hint of firmness. In Sport, the suspension stiffens a fair bit and the ride does get jarring with those 19-inch wheels crashing through even small potholes. The trade-off is better handling, as the GLE doesn’t roll too much in this mode and you can throw it around a fair bit through fast corners.
The X5 rides well too, and this is particularly true in Comfort. Here, it feels nice and pliant for the most part, only sharper undulations filtering through. In Sport, the adaptive dampers stiffen up and offer better body control, while handling feels even sharper, letting you enjoy more of the good dynamics. But while grip and composure are clearly superior, the steering is too quick and sharp, and this makes this big SUV a bit too nervous.
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Uday Singh
Suraj Viswanathan
Rivan RS 
Lenny D'sa
Saptarshi Mondal
