2025 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Ford Explorer continued the design evolution initiated in its previous redesign, maintaining its rear-wheel-drive platform that contributed to its balanced proportions and sleek appearance. The refreshed model featured a restyled front end, giving it a wider and more ruggedly handsome look. New LED taillights and a strip of trim connecting them added to its modern aesthetic. Inside, the Explorer saw significant improvements in materials and design, making it competitive in its segment. Ford streamlined the trim levels to four, offering a range from the base Active to the performance-tuned ST, with prices starting at $39,755.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of ten versions, with prices from $63,600 to $134,500. Assembled in Alabama, the GLE 350 was the entry-level model with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe topped the range with a hand-built twin-turbo V8. Our focus was on the GLE 450, featuring a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The GLE 450 came with standard all-wheel drive and was equipped with the Exclusive and Manufaktur Edition Packages, enhancing its luxury appeal. Despite its bland exterior, the GLE's interior was elegantly detailed, with quality materials and sophisticated digital displays.

The 2025 Ford Explorer offered two EcoBoost engine options. Most trims, including the ST-Line, came with a turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. The Explorer ST and optionally the Platinum trim featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter V6, delivering 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque. All Explorers were equipped with a 10-speed automatic transmission and rear-wheel drive, with an optional four-wheel-drive system. The ST-Line test vehicle averaged 23.8 mpg with its turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The Explorer's driving modes and performance packages enhanced its handling and ride quality, making it a capable and comfortable midsize SUV.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, generated 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The GLE 450's towing capacity was an impressive 7,700 pounds. However, the standard suspension allowed too much body motion, affecting its performance in various driving conditions. The sport braking system performed well in spirited driving, but the transmission's delayed downshifts and the engine's uneven power delivery at low speeds were drawbacks. The GLE achieved 21 mpg in combined driving, matching EPA estimates.

The 2025 Ford Explorer accommodated six passengers in its standard configuration, with an optional second-row bench seat increasing capacity to seven. The ST-Line trim featured comfortable front seats with heating and power adjustments, while the Premium Package added amenities like ambient lighting and a power-folding third-row seat. The second-row captain's chairs were equally comfortable, but the third row was less accommodating for adults. Cargo space was competitive, with 16.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 85.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered firm yet comfortable front seats with heating and "energizing seat kinetics." The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats and Nappa leather. The back seat provided ample headroom and legroom, though the seating position felt low. An optional third-row seat added versatility. The GLE's cargo space measured 33.3 cubic feet behind the back seat, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. Thoughtful storage solutions and a power rear liftgate enhanced its practicality.

The 2025 Ford Explorer featured the Ford Digital Experience infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 13.2-inch touchscreen. It included Google Built-in, Amazon Alexa, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with Google Maps and app downloads available. The Explorer offered B&O sound systems, with the ST-Line featuring a 10-speaker setup and higher trims boasting 14 speakers and 980 watts of power.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE utilized the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered lush graphics and a biometric authentication system. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and Mercedes Digital Extras. The system was intuitive, though the voice assistant had minor limitations.

The 2025 Ford Explorer came with Ford CoPilot 360+, offering a comprehensive suite of advanced driving assistance systems. The ST-Line and higher trims included Ford CoPilot 360 2.0, adding a surround-view camera system and BlueCruise hands-free highway driving. The Explorer earned five-star side-impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings from the NHTSA, though full ratings were pending.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE's Active Emergency Stop Assist was noteworthy, but the route-based speed-adjustment feature was problematic. The GLE earned a "Top Safety Pick+" from the IIHS, though its front-crash prevention tech received low ratings.