2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs BMW X5: Which Luxury SUV Wins Around Richmond?

Which is better, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE or the BMW X5?

In the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs BMW X5 match, neither wins for everyone. The GLE suits buyers who want room and a lower starting MSRP. The X5 suits buyers who put power and included maintenance first. Prices here are starting MSRPs that exclude destination, taxes, title and registration, and they are not dealer selling prices. Mercedes-Benz lists the 2027 GLE SUV on mbusa.com, and BMW lists the 2027 BMW X5, a new generation of the X5, on bmwusa.com.

Here is how each one lines up, based on what the two automakers publish:

• The GLE fits families who need space. It lists more cargo space, as each automaker lists it, plus an optional third row on the GLE 450. 4MATIC all-wheel drive is standard on every 2027 GLE SUV.
• The X5 fits drivers who put power first. The X5 40 xDrive lists 394 hp and a quicker 0-60 mph estimate than the GLE 350.
• Ownership terms differ. BMW Ultimate Care is standard for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. Mercedes-Benz sells Premier Prepaid Maintenance as an option for the GLE.
• Towing is about the same. Mercedes-Benz lists up to 7,700 lbs with the optional trailer hitch. BMW lists 7,710 lbs for the X5 40 xDrive and X5 40 sDrive.

Use the sections below to weigh the points that matter to you. Then drive both before you decide. You can browse the lineup on our Mercedes-Benz vehicle research page.

How do the 2027 GLE and BMW X5 prices compare?

The 2027 GLE 350 4MATIC starts at $68,400 MSRP, and the X5 40 xDrive at $72,100 MSRP, before destination, taxes, title, registration and options. Neither figure is a dealer selling price. Both were listed on mbusa.com and bmwusa.com on 11/06/2026. BMW’s June 30, 2026 announcement lists a $1,450 destination and handling charge, which is not included in its MSRP. Mercedes-Benz’s destination charge is not shown on the pages we reviewed. BMW also notes, “Dealer sets actual price and may impose additional fees,” and “Starting MSRP may vary as a result of equipment capacity restrictions.”

The closest all-wheel-drive match is the GLE 350 4MATIC against the X5 40 xDrive. The rear-drive X5 40 sDrive starts lower, but every 2027 GLE SUV has 4MATIC. To plan a budget, see our Mercedes-Benz financing page or apply for financing online.

How do the GLE and X5 compare on power and performance?

The X5 40 xDrive leads the GLE 350 on output. The GLE 450 narrows that gap with its own inline-six. The GLE 350 uses a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with mild hybrid drive. Mercedes-Benz says its integrated starter generator adds 23 hp and 151 lb-ft. The GLE 450 steps up to a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. Every X5 40 uses a 3.0-liter inline-six with a 48V mild hybrid system.

If output is your priority, compare the GLE 450 with the X5 40 xDrive, not just the GLE 350. Mercedes-Benz also lists a GLE 500e plug-in hybrid with 429 hp combined and a V8 GLE 580 with 530 hp. Neither had a published MSRP on 11/06/2026.

Which SUV has more room: seats, third row and cargo?

The GLE lists more cargo space and an optional third row on the GLE 450. BMW says the X5 seats up to five and has no third row. Mercedes-Benz lists the GLE 350 as a five-seater. The GLE 450 seats five, with seven-passenger seating optional through a 50/50-split third row. BMW says the X5 “comfortably accommodates up to five adults” and points third-row shoppers to its X7.

Both automakers list a split-folding second row, 40/20/40 on each. The cargo figures are as each automaker lists them, and they may be measured differently. Bring your own gear, such as a stroller or golf bags, to a test drive and try it in both.

How do the GLE’s MBUX Superscreen and the X5’s displays compare?

Every 2027 GLE SUV has the standard MBUX Superscreen, with three 12.3-inch displays. The X5 pairs BMW Panoramic Vision with a 17.9-inch central touchscreen. Mercedes-Benz says the GLE runs MB.OS with fourth-generation MBUX, including an MBUX Voice Assistant based on artificial intelligence. An MBUX Augmented Reality Head-up Display is optional. BMW lists Panoramic Vision across the base of the windshield, a standard 3D Head-Up Display, and an optional 14.6-inch BMW Passenger Screen.

Driver assistance

On the GLE, MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST is standard, and MB.DRIVE ASSIST and MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO are available. On the X5, Driving Assistant Plus is standard. BMW’s optional Highway Assistant allows hands-free driving at speeds up to 85 mph where conditions and speed limits allow. BMW notes, “The Highway Assistant is not available in Alaska, Puerto Rico or Hawaii.” BMW also states, “Driver assistance features are not a substitute for the driver’s responsibility to operate the vehicle in a safe manner.”

Mercedes-Benz notes that some features are offered as Digital Extras. Activating one requires “a personal Mercedes me ID, agreement to the Terms of Use” and “pairing of the vehicle and user account.” Ask our sales team which GLE features are standard and which are Digital Extras.

Screens are personal. Spend ten minutes with each system on a test drive, including voice commands and phone pairing.

How do the GLE and X5 handle towing and Central Virginia weather?

Towing is about the same: up to 7,700 lbs for the GLE with its optional trailer hitch, and 7,710 lbs for the X5 40. Mercedes-Benz lists ESP trailer stabilization as standard on the GLE. BMW refers buyers to the owner’s manual “for complete vehicle and towing specifications.” Check the exact rating for the vehicle you buy before you hitch a boat or camper.

Around Richmond and Midlothian, summers run hot and humid, and winters bring freezes with occasional snow and ice. All-wheel drive is standard on every 2027 GLE SUV and on the X5 40 xDrive. The X5 40 sDrive is rear-wheel drive, so pick the drivetrain that fits your winter driving.

Tires matter too. You can ask about tires for your GLE at our Mercedes-Benz tire center. Shopping from the city? Our Mercedes-Benz dealer near Richmond page has directions and department numbers. Midlothian drivers can start at our Midlothian Mercedes-Benz dealer page.

Has either 2027 SUV been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS?

As of 11/06/2026, NHTSA had not rated either 2027 SUV. IIHS lists crash-test ratings for the 2027 GLE, but none yet for the 2027 X5. IIHS rates the 2027 GLE Good in the driver-side and passenger-side small overlap front, updated moderate overlap front and updated side tests. IIHS says those ratings come from tests of 2024 models and apply to 2024-27 models. Its 2027 GLE page showed no TOP SAFETY PICK award when we checked.

IIHS had not posted ratings for the 2027 X5 as of 11/06/2026. Because BMW calls the 2027 X5 a new generation, we do not carry ratings for the 2026 X5 over to it. Check NHTSA and IIHS again before you buy, since new results can post at any time.

What do warranty, maintenance and roadside assistance look like for each SUV?

Both warranties run 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first, per the latest booklets we found. BMW also includes scheduled maintenance. Mercedes-Benz’s 2027 booklet says its New Vehicle Limited Warranty runs “for 48 months or 50,000 miles, whichever occurs first.” BMW’s 2026 model-year booklet lists the same period. We did not find a 2027 BMW booklet, so confirm those terms with BMW.

BMW says Ultimate Care covers its listed items “when performed as outlined in the vehicle’s Maintenance booklet” at an authorized BMW center. Mercedes-Benz says Premier Prepaid Maintenance is for new vehicles “less than 1 year old with fewer than 10,000 miles.” Its brochure states, “Agreement cannot be cancelled and is non-refundable, subject to any limitations under state law.” Coverage may vary by state.

For typical service visits, see our Mercedes-Benz maintenance costs guide and Service Offers. Mercedes-Benz notes that warranty claims go to an Authorized Mercedes-Benz Dealership, “While maintenance service can be performed by any qualified service outlet.” You can schedule either with our Mercedes-Benz service department.

How should Richmond-area drivers compare the GLE and X5 before buying?

Match trims first, then test both SUVs on your own routes with your own gear. A fair comparison starts with like-for-like models, then the details that only you can judge.

1. Match the drivetrain and engine. Compare the GLE 350 4MATIC with the X5 40 xDrive, or the GLE 450 4MATIC with the X5 40 xDrive if output matters most.
2. Decide on seating. Mercedes-Benz lists optional seven-passenger seating on the GLE 450, and BMW says the X5 does not have a third row.
3. Measure your garage. Mercedes-Benz lists the GLE 350 at 79.7 inches wide without mirrors, 85.2 inches with mirrors and 70.7 inches tall. Allow room to open doors.
4. Price the whole ownership period. Add destination, taxes and your plan for maintenance. BMW Ultimate Care is standard for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first; for the GLE, compare Premier Prepaid Maintenance.
5. Value your current vehicle. Our Value Your Trade page is a starting point; the final figure comes from an in-person appraisal.
6. Drive both on familiar roads. Book a GLE test drive and try the screens, seats and cargo area with your own items.

You can also read about Mercedes-Benz of Midlothian or find directions on our contact page. Call our sales team at (804) 587-6113 with questions about a specific GLE.