Big things are happening in the world of luxury SUVs. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is getting an extensive update for the 2027 model year. The new version features a revised design, a tweaked engine lineup, and plenty of new tech features.Another high-end SUV, the BMW X5, is about to get a far bigger makeover. The vehicle model is coming up to the end of its fourth generation, which was first introduced in 2018. The fifth-gen model, dubbed the G65, is set to debut later this year and go on sale for the 2027 model year. As the new BMW SUV is not yet out and limited information is available, we are taking a closer look at the specifications and features for the 2026 X5 versus the newly released 2027 GLE. Design: Next-Level Luxury Mercedes-Benz The new GLE has had a major design overhaul, with 3,000 new or revised components according to Mercedes. Among them, we find a new grille with a chrome frame, as well as headlights and taillights with a star motif. The Mercedes star has a prominent place at the center of the new grille, and in the GLE Coupe model, it is illuminated (unlike the X5, the GLE is available in both SUV and coupe form). The X5 sports BMW’s traditional design cues, such as the iconic kidney grille. Both the grille and front bumper are enhanced with chrome accents. In the M60i, several blacked-out elements give the vehicle a sportier, more stylish appearance. These include the grille, roof rails, mirror caps, and exhaust outlets. Powertrain: Sports Car Power And Hybrid Power Mercedes-BenzThe 2027 GLE offers three powertrains. The GLE 350 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four engine producing 255 hp. Further up the lineup, there's the GLE 450, which offers a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six with 375 hp. The most powerful version at launch is the GLE 580, with a 4.0-liter V8 and two turbochargers, making 530 hp. Unlike the other two, the 580 does not use a mild-hybrid powertrain (in both the GLE 350 and the GLE 450, the engine is assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system).One of the most notable characteristics of this V8 is its flat-plane crankshaft, a layout usually found in high-performance engines. Although, in this case, Mercedes is primarily using this layout as a way of reducing emissions. It's still interesting to see a family hauler with an engine type normally seen in sports cars.For drivers who would like to step up from a mild hybrid to a plug-in hybrid, there is also a PHEV version called the GLE 450e, which uses the inline-six engine with a single electric motor for a total output of 429 hp. All powertrain choices include a single transmission option: a nine-speed automatic. What Does The X5 Offer? BMW For the X5, meanwhile, there are three powertrain options on offer. The first is a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, making 375 hp. The second is a plug-in hybrid powertrain that combines the same engine with an electric motor, for a total output of 483 hp. The most powerful option is a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that produces 523 hp. All three are paired with a single choice of transmission, an eight-speed automatic.Another important difference between the two models lies in their drivetrain options. For the BMW X5, the base sDrive40i trim is rear-wheel-drive, while all others are all-wheel-drive.In the GLE lineup, on the other hand, all models are equipped with the latest version of Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The system has been upgraded with a new transfer case equipped with low-range gearing, which ensures optimum traction during off-road driving and improves overall ride comfort. Fuel Economy BMWData on the new GLE's fuel economy has not been released yet. However, the 2026 model (more specifically, the version equipped with the inline-four engine, which produces the same power output in 2026 and 2027) achieved 21 mpg in the city, 28 mpg on the highway, and 25 mpg combined.The 2026 X5 achieves slightly better city driving (23 mpg) but slightly worse highway driving (27 mpg), with combined fuel economy remaining the same at 25 mpg. Special Equipment Mercedes-Benz The new GLE comes with an optional intelligent suspension system called E-Activ Body Control, which uses control units that analyze the driving situation 1,000 times per second. Based on data gathered by these control units, the system adjusts the spring and damper forces for each wheel individually. This enables the vehicle to comfortably tackle rough terrain, bumps, and potholes without compromising ride quality.For drivers who opt for the Airmatic air suspension, a cloud-based system gathers data from other Mercedes vehicles. It anticipates bumps in the road and adjusts the suspension before the vehicle hits a speed bump or other obstacle.The X5, meanwhile, offers air suspension as an optional upgrade but is not quite as oriented towards tackling all terrains, instead being more focused on everyday driving. The available option packages are more performance- and comfort-focused, featuring better brakes, an upgraded moonroof, soft-close doors, and rear heated seats. Interior and Tech: Fit For The FutureBMW The first and most important difference between the GLE and the X5 is the number of seats. The GLE SUV offers an optional third row, increasing capacity from five to seven occupants, while the X5 has only two rows and seats up to five. If you have a large family or regularly transport additional passengers, the GLE SUV offers more space and flexibility. The GLE Coupe, on the other hand, does not offer a third-row seat option.Although both models offer a panoramic sunroof as standard, the BMW also has an optional “Panoramic Sky Lounge LED Roof” upgrade, which adds colorful LED lights to enhance the experience. The X5 has generous passenger and cargo space, plus several optional features that elevate the driver’s and passengers’ experience even further, such as massaging seats, heated front armrests, and a heated steering wheel. A Bowers & Wilkins premium surround-sound system is also available as an option.The infotainment system is controlled by a 14.9-inch touchscreen, with BMW’s iDrive software running the show. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both offered as standard. There is also an on-board Wi-Fi hotspot and a wireless charging pad to keep everyone connected and charged up while on the move.Mercedes-Benz The interior of the GLE has been refreshed for 2027, with a host of new design and comfort features, including an updated steering wheel and infotainment system.In the GLE, the infotainment system is controlled via the MBUX Superscreen, which includes three 12.3-inch displays beneath a glass surface. The system running the show is the MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System), which uses AI and powerful chips to control every aspect of the vehicle. The system connects to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud, which enables the vehicle to download over-the-air updates. A virtual assistant communicates with the user and creates a more personalized experience. Price and Winner: Out With The Old… Mercedes-Benz Of course, it is somewhat unfair to compare a newly refreshed model with one at the end of its generation. However, as things currently stand, the Mercedes has the upper hand. While the BMW, at least in our opinion, wins on the looks front, the Mercedes has more to offer overall. The advanced tech, the upgraded 4MATIC system, and the range of intelligent suspension options give it an edge, as does the additional seating capacity in the SUV-bodied version, which makes the GLE better suited to a wider range of transport needs.Mercedes-Benz While both vehicles are very strong contenders with plenty of features on offer, we think the Mercedes wins out, though we shall have to wait until the 2027 X5 is released a few months from now to see what kind of fight BMW puts up.Sources: Mercedes-Benz, BMW
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