2025 Toyota 4Runner vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner, in its sixth generation, maintained a familiar design language with a more robust and industrial exterior. The horseshoe-shaped grille returned, now bulkier, and the side body panels featured deep beveled creases that complemented the flared wheel arches, giving the SUV a broad-shouldered stance. Paying homage to its predecessors, the 4Runner retained the slanted rearmost window from the first generation and a sliding rear window for easier cargo access. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Toyota Tacoma's design, with beveled styling throughout. While hard plastics were prevalent for durability, the interior offered comfort with light cushioning in key areas. The materials were of higher quality than those in a Jeep Wrangler or Ford Bronco, though not as refined as a Land Rover Defender.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of ten versions, with prices from $63,600 to $134,500. The GLE 450, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology, was the focus of our review. The Manufaktur Edition Package added exclusive features like 21-inch wheels, a panoramic sunroof, and Nappa leather. Despite its luxury status, the GLE's exterior design was criticized for its egg-like shape, though the Coupe version was more appealing. Inside, the GLE 450 boasted a luxurious cabin with matte-finish wood, ambient lighting, and sophisticated digital displays. The steering wheel featured touch-sensing controls, though the touch slider for volume was less user-friendly than the thumbwheel on the center console.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner offered two engine choices. The base model featured a 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 317 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with four-wheel drive available. The i-Force Max Hybrid powertrain, based on the same four-cylinder engine, delivered 326 horsepower and 465 pound-feet of torque, offering improved power at lower speeds. The 4Runner's handling was more composed on pavement compared to its predecessor, with reduced nosedive and body roll. Off-road capabilities remained strong, with nine trims offering varying levels of off-road prowess. The TRD Pro and Trailhunter models were the most capable, though the Trailhunter's snorkel added wind noise.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450's turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, combined with a mild-hybrid system, generated 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLE 450 featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered multiple driving modes. Despite its luxury status, the GLE was equipped for off-roading and towing, with a capacity of 7,700 pounds. However, the standard suspension allowed excessive body motion, affecting city and mountain road driving. The steering was numb in Comfort mode, and the brakes were grabby in stop-and-go traffic. The GLE's fuel economy was decent, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner was five inches longer than its predecessor, with a 2.4-inch longer wheelbase. While front seat space was ample, the middle row offered only adequate legroom. Third-row seating was available on non-hybrid models but was cramped. The cockpit was well-organized, with oversized climate control knobs and grouped off-road controls. Storage included door pockets, a dashboard tray, and a center armrest bin. Cargo capacity was 44.8 cubic feet, reduced to 42.6 cubic feet in the Hybrid due to battery placement. A sturdy roof rack compensated for cargo deficits.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's front seats were firm yet comfortable, with features like heated seats and "energizing seat kinetics." The back seat was roomy but positioned low relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was an expensive option, adding two extra chairs with USB-C ports. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 74.9 cubic feet with the back seat folded. The cargo area included a netted compartment, hooks, lighting, and a cargo cover, with additional storage under the load floor.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 14-inch option available. Both screens were user-friendly, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Off-road models included external camera views and automatic activation for trail navigation. A 14-speaker JBL audio system and a portable Bluetooth speaker were available. Remote monitoring and a digital key function were also offered.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE's MBUX infotainment system included a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen. The system featured lush graphics, a biometric authentication system, and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with additional connected services available.

The 2025 Toyota 4Runner's crash test results were unavailable, but the Tacoma, on which it was based, was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. The 4Runner included Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, with features like frontal collision warning, lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. A blind-spot monitor was optional.

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