2025 Mazda CX-50 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 was a standout in the compact SUV segment, borrowing styling cues from the CX-5 but enhancing them with more pronounced fender flares and a wider grille. This gave the CX-50 a sportier and more athletic appearance while maintaining an elegant presence. Inside, the CX-50 featured a traditional layout with high-quality materials, including soft-touch surfaces and sturdy plastics. The interior was further accentuated by distinct stitching and exclusive red leather upholstery in the hybrid model, adding a touch of flair. However, the decorative stripe running down the middle of the seats was a point of contention, as some found its placement awkward.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of versions, with prices spanning from $63,600 to $134,500. Our focus was on the GLE 450, which featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. The GLE's exterior design was somewhat bland, but the interior was a different story, boasting elegant details and high-quality materials. The cabin featured matte-finish wood, metallic accents, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The steering wheel was both classy and functional, and the separation of climate controls from the touchscreen was a thoughtful touch. The GLE's interior was a testament to luxury, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid debuted with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with three electric motors, delivering 219 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque. It featured all-wheel drive, although it wasn't designed for serious off-road use. The hybrid powertrain was borrowed from the Toyota RAV4 Hybrid, offering a smart choice given Toyota's expertise in hybrid technology. The CX-50 Hybrid filled the gap between the 187hp base engine and the 256hp Turbo models. Acceleration was expected to be similar to the RAV4 Hybrid, reaching 60 mph in 7.5 to 8 seconds. The driving experience was enhanced by sportier suspension tuning, providing engaging handling and agility. However, the firmer ride quality meant that bumps were more noticeable, though not intrusive.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450, equipped with a mild-hybrid system, generated 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque from its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLE 450 was capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds, a notable figure for a luxury SUV. However, the standard suspension allowed for too much body motion, affecting the driving experience. The steering felt numb in Comfort mode, and while it firmed up in Dynamic mode, it remained uninspiring. The sport braking system performed well during spirited driving but felt grabby in typical situations. The GLE's fuel economy was decent, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 offered a comfortable driving experience but fell short in terms of practicality and space compared to competitors. While the front seats provided ample room, the rear seats were less accommodating for taller passengers. Personal storage was adequate, but rivals offered more options. The cargo space was limited, with 29.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, less than the class average. However, the space was usable, and features like a power liftgate and remote rear seatback releases added convenience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a comfortable and spacious interior. The front seats were firm yet comfortable, with features like heated and ventilated seats and "energizing seat kinetics." The back seat offered generous headroom and legroom, though the seating position was low. A third-row seat was available as an option, adding versatility. The GLE's cargo space was impressive, with 33.3 cubic feet behind the back seat and a maximum of 74.9 cubic feet with the seats folded down. Thoughtful storage solutions and a power rear liftgate added to the GLE's practicality.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 featured a 10.25-inch infotainment system controlled by a dial on the center console. While it lacked some modern touchscreen functionality, it offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium trim added a wireless charging pad and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The dial controller was reminiscent of older infotainment systems, providing a tactile and less distracting experience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered lush graphics and a range of configurations, with a biometric authentication system for user profiles. 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 GLE's technology was sophisticated and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2025 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid earned high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA in most evaluations. It came equipped with driver assistance features like frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The systems functioned smoothly, providing a safe and reliable driving experience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's standard safety tech was limited for a luxury SUV, but it included essential features like forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitors, and automatic emergency braking. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The GLE's safety systems were generally effective, though some features, like the route-based speed adjustment, were less refined. The GLE earned a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.