2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350
On paper, the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i wins on 2 MPG better, 120 more hp, 103 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 375 vs 255 hp, 25 vs 23 MPG.
The X5 xDrive40i leads on 2 MPG better, 120 more hp. The GLE GLE 350 leads on $8,350 less. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i | 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $70,600 | $62,250 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo | 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo |
| Horsepower | 375 hp | 255 hp |
| Torque | 398 lb-ft | 295 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | RWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 23 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 25 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 21.9 gal | 22.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,998 lbs | 4,806 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 117.1" | 117.9" |
| Length | 194.2" | 194.3" |
| Width | 78.9" | 76.7" |
| Height | 69.1" | 70.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Powertrain | 4yr/50k | 4yr/50k |
| Corrosion | 12yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
| Roadside Assistance | 4yr/unlimited | 4yr/50k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 starts at $62,250, $8,350 less than the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i at $70,600. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $147/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i?
The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel; the extra 120 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 is the stronger pick when you want to keep $8,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i or 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i produces 375 hp, 120 more than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 at 255 hp. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i also leads in torque at 398 lb-ft vs 295 lb-ft. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i, RWD on the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350.
Is the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i bigger than the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350?
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 is 0.1″ longer at 194.3″ vs 194.2″. The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 has a 0.8″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i comes with AWD, while the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses RWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 4yr/50k bumper-to-bumper and 4yr/50k powertrain.
Explore more: BMW trims, BMW X5 trims, Mercedes-Benz trims, Mercedes-Benz GLE trims
How the X5 and GLE Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i ($70,600) and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 ($62,250) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-8,350 gap adds up to $147/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: X5 vs GLE
The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i runs a 3.0L I6 mild-hybrid Turbo; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses a 2.0L I4 mild-hybrid Turbo. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i has 120 more hp (375 vs 255). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i adds 103 more lb-ft of torque (398 vs 295), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i comes with AWD; the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 uses RWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 BMW X5 xDrive40i when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 when you want to keep $8,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE 350 covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with BMW or Mercedes-Benz or any dealership.