BMW X5 vs Mercedes GLE vs Lexus RX review | Head2Head

TL;DR

Lexus RX wins as the most modern and luxurious SUV.

Transcript

luxury SUVs these are the cars many people aspire to perfect for families who want to rise above the hooy but which is best the new Lexus RX the recently revised Mercedes GLE formerly known as the ML Class or the good old BMW X5 you know it looks like some Posh parents have gone and triple parked outside their kids school to help you decide I'm goi... Read More

Key Insights

• The Lexus RX stands out with its modern design and luxurious interior, offering features like wireless charging and unique wooden inlays.
• The BMW X5 is the sportiest to drive, but its hybrid version feels cumbersome and doesn't deliver on fuel economy claims.
• The Mercedes GLE offers a solid and tank-like build, with good handling and a powerful diesel engine, but feels outdated in some aspects.
• In terms of boot space, hybrids like the BMW and Mercedes sacrifice capacity due to battery placement, making them less practical.
• The Lexus RX provides a comfortable ride with its quiet cabin and soft leather seats, although it struggles with space when seating three in the back.
• The GLE excels in off-road capabilities with features like air suspension and optional low ratio mode, although most buyers won't use it for off-roading.
• The BMW X5 offers the best handling and is recommended in its diesel variant for better performance and economy.
• The Lexus RX's hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy and reliability, making it a strong contender despite lacking a diesel option.

Questions & Answers

Q: What makes the Lexus RX stand out in this comparison?

The Lexus RX stands out due to its modern design, luxurious interior, and unique features such as wireless charging and wooden inlays from Yamaha's piano division. It also offers a reliable hybrid powertrain that delivers impressive fuel economy, making it a strong contender despite lacking a diesel option.

Q: How does the BMW X5 perform in terms of driving dynamics?

The BMW X5 is the sportiest to drive among the three SUVs, offering the best handling. However, its hybrid variant feels more cumbersome due to increased weight, and it doesn't deliver on the claimed fuel economy. The 3-liter diesel engine is recommended for better performance and economy.

Q: What are the key features of the Mercedes GLE?

The Mercedes GLE offers a solid, tank-like build with good handling and a powerful diesel engine. It excels in off-road capabilities with features like air suspension and an optional low ratio mode. However, its interior feels outdated compared to the more modern Lexus RX.

Q: How does boot space compare among the three SUVs?

Boot space is compromised in the hybrid versions of the BMW and Mercedes due to battery placement, making them less practical. The Lexus RX, while offering a similar boot capacity to the non-hybrid X5, has a sloping roofline that limits luggage space slightly. Overall, the Mercedes GLE offers the most boot space in its diesel variant.

Q: What are the comfort and seating arrangements like in these SUVs?

The Lexus RX provides a comfortable ride with its quiet cabin and soft leather seats, though it struggles with space when seating three in the back. The Mercedes GLE is better for carrying three passengers, while the BMW offers spacious rear seats but lacks the luxury feel of the Lexus.

Q: How do these SUVs handle off-road conditions?

The Mercedes GLE is the best equipped for off-road conditions with its air suspension and optional low ratio mode, although most buyers of these luxury SUVs are unlikely to take them off-road. The review highlights that off-road testing is more camera trickery than practical necessity for these vehicles.

Q: Why is the Lexus RX considered the winner in this comparison?

The Lexus RX is considered the winner due to its modern design, luxurious and comfortable interior, and reliable hybrid powertrain that offers good fuel economy. It feels more contemporary compared to the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE, which show signs of aging despite being solid contenders.

Q: What are the drawbacks of the BMW X5 hybrid version?

The BMW X5 hybrid version is heavier, making it feel more cumbersome and less sporty compared to the standard diesel variant. It also falls short in delivering the claimed fuel economy, achieving only 35 miles per gallon instead of the expected 85. Additionally, it suffers from tire noise and wind whistle at high speeds.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• The Lexus RX, BMW X5, and Mercedes GLE are compared in terms of design, driving experience, and practicality. The Lexus RX emerges as the most modern and luxurious option, offering unique features and reliable performance, while the BMW and Mercedes show signs of aging.

• The BMW X5 is noted for its sporty driving dynamics but falls short in its hybrid variant due to increased weight and less impressive fuel economy. The Mercedes GLE offers a sturdy build and good handling, though it feels outdated compared to the Lexus RX.

• In terms of practicality, hybrids like the BMW and Mercedes sacrifice boot space due to battery placement. The Lexus RX offers a comfortable and quiet ride, though it struggles with seating three in the back. Overall, the Lexus RX wins for its modern design and reliability.