Currently, car enthusiasts often compare the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and the BMW X6, deciding on their purchase. The sales of the BMW X6 started in 2008. Many did not even perceive this car class. The skeptics viewed the coupe-crossover model as an exotic novelty not deserving of much attention.
Meanwhile, the Bavarians persistently promoted their concept. Over the years of X6 existence, the company has sold 300,000 cars. Not long ago, the concern released the second generation of the coupe-crossover.
Mercedes spent 8 years considering the competitor's successes, but eventually decided to enter the market with a similar offer. The innovation from this concern appealed to many drivers.
Exterior of Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and BMW X6
Responsible for the exterior design of all modern Mercedes-Benz cars is Gordon Wagner. It was he who added sensuality to the cars, endowed them with rounded lines and a certain sportiness. The increase in the size of the famous three-pointed star on the radiator grille is Gordon's merit. This set of measures increased the cars' recognizability on the road. However, a drawback also emerged.
The models lost their individuality. They can only be distinguished by size. For some brand enthusiasts and connoisseurs, this fact became unacceptable.
The front of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe resembles the classic ML. The increased dimensions of the windshield and radiator grille create a sense of monumentality and grandeur.
From the rear, the car resembles a classic hatchback. The dimensions of the coupe-crossover with its stern visually appear slightly smaller.
When comparing the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6, it is worth mentioning the size of the car's wheels from Stuttgart. The manufacturers installed 315/40 ZR21 as the base. Such tires emphasize the sporty character of the car. They are more suitable for a true supercar rather than an agile crossover. However, this decision enhances the sense of grandeur.
The updated version of the Bavarian looks slightly more modest. Essentially, the second generation of the model is a deep restyling of the first. There have been no revolutionary changes, but this was not required by BMW engineers.
The Bavarian lacks monumentality. The front of the car perfectly replicates other models of the brand. The «standard» radiator grille and headlights recognizable to all immediately assert the quality and style. There is no sense of excess luxury. The X6 is more restrained.
When comparing the design of the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6, it is impossible to name a clear leader. The Bavarian coupe-crossover is ideal for speed and dynamics enthusiasts. The car's appearance speaks of its reliability and decent horsepower under the hood.
Mercedes-Benz, on the other hand, is more suitable for luxury connoisseurs. The model immediately announces the owner's status.
Interior
Differences between Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6 can be seen in the interior design. But first, let's talk a bit about the commonalities of the models:
- thoughtful design;
- expensive finishing materials;
- accentuated luxury;
- balanced ergonomics.
The interior of each car emphasizes the owner's status. The seats are upholstered in exquisite soft leather. Chrome metal details are placed on the panel of each coupe-crossover. The manufacturers actively used expensive wood species.
Naturally, there was also plastic used. However, the manufacturers used only high-quality polymers. They perfectly matched the details to each other. This minimized friction and reduced the level of additional noises. Now onto the differences.
The Bavarian's interior is strict and even ascetic. The perfect balance and ergonomics allow the driver to feel like the king of the road. The seats are upholstered in premium red leather. The convenient steering wheel position allows the driver to make precise maneuvers. The dashboard stands out with an expanded set of instruments and flexibility of numerous settings.
The main highlight is the front seats. In the Bavarian, they are crafted with an excellent balance of firmness and comfort. The side support enhances the sporty effect of the entire car. It securely holds the driver and front passenger.
There is plenty of room on the rear bench for three adult men. Passengers over 190 cm tall may experience some discomfort in the knees.
Now, in comparing the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6, it's time to delve into the interior of the model from Stuttgart. Designers created it for maximum relaxation. Various details indicate this:
- softer seats compared to the X6;
- calm tones in the interior trim;
- lack of significant side support.
Manufacturers also worked on sound insulation. In this parameter, Mercedes-Benz outperforms X6. Even during acceleration, the engine noise is subdued. The model can perform well on the highway, but the driver won't feel the urge to engage in races.
The Mercedes-Benz interior is conducive to a calm ride.
Issues may arise due to the uncomfortable position of the gear lever. In this aspect, the Bavarian surpasses the competitor. The onboard computer display is as informative as that of the BMW X6, but the fonts are smaller.
Taller individuals may find it less comfortable to sit on the rear bench. Those over 185 cm tall may encounter seating difficulties.
Trunk Space
When comparing Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6 in terms of trunk volume, the unequivocal lead goes to the model from Stuttgart. The storage compartment dimensions of the Mercedes-Benz amount to 650 liters. With the rear seat folded down, the capacity increases to 1720 liters.
The Bavarian lags behind. Moreover, the difference is quite significant. The initial size of the X6 luggage compartment is 580 liters. When the rear seat back is folded, it increases to 1525 liters.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and BMW X6 Test Drive
The test drive revealed other differences between the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and the BMW X6. The models are designed for different driving styles. Therefore, it is impossible to determine a clear leader here.
Mercedes-Benz offers comfort. The pneumatic suspension is adapted to Russian conditions. There is no shaking in the cabin even when driving on rough surfaces. The engine noise is soft and somewhat soothing. When taking corners at high speeds, slight tilting is possible.
The model's character is revealed only when the Sport mode is activated. The accelerator responds more sharply to any changes in steering commands. The model becomes more responsive in speed pickup, showing a more efficient acceleration. This dynamic behavior leads to a significant loss of comfort. The shaking on bumps becomes more pronounced.
The X6 initially demonstrates better sporty characteristics. The car reacts sensitively to any changes in the accelerator pedal and steering wheel. Negotiating turns is smooth yet quick. Surges during speed pickup are eliminated. In terms of comfort at low speeds, the X6 slightly lags behind its competitor, but at higher dynamics, it outperforms the rival.
In the comparison between Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6 in terms of speed pickup, the slight advantage goes to the model from Stuttgart. The Mercedes-Benz is faster than the competitor by just 0.3 seconds.
Dimensions
When comparing Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6 in terms of dimensions, it is also impossible to determine a clear leader. The Bavarian's length is 4909 mm with a width of 1989 mm and a height of 1702 mm. The Stuttgart competitor is slightly shorter but wider and taller (4891 mm, 2003 mm, and 1719 mm, respectively).
The models are similar in ground clearance measurements as well. The Bavarian's clearance is 211 mm, slightly less than the competitor's by 5 mm.
Engines of Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe and BMW X6
Now, in the comparison between Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6, it is time to analyze the types of power units. Currently, the GLE Coupe comes with 3 types of engines:
- 3-liter diesel with 258 horsepower.
- 3-liter turbocharged gasoline with 333 horsepower.
- 3-liter AMG gasoline engine with 367 horsepower.
In the future, engineers plan to release a 5.5-liter engine. The power unit will deliver 525 horsepower. However, there is no exact date for the launch of this version on the market yet.
The Bavarian offers slightly more engine options:
- 3-liter gasoline with 225 horsepower.
- 3-liter hybrid with 300 horsepower.
- 4.4-liter gasoline with 300 horsepower.
- 4.4-liter gasoline with 408 horsepower.
- 4.4-liter gasoline with 357 horsepower.
- 3-liter diesel with 173 horsepower.
- 3-liter diesel with 210 horsepower.
In terms of engine variety, the Bavarian clearly has the upper hand.
Read more: Which SUV to Choose, BMW X5 or Mercedes ML
Prices
German cars are expensive. When comparing between Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6, the situation is paradoxical. The base configuration of the Bavarian is cheaper than the competitor by 500,000 rubles (4.2 million rubles compared to 4.7 million).
In the top configuration, the situation changes. New options increase the price of the X6 to 6,116,500 rubles. The GLE, on the other hand, will cost 5,682,500 rubles at maximum. The difference is huge.
Instead of a Conclusion
It is impossible to determine a clear leader in the comparison between Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe or BMW X6. Fans of luxury, style, and comfort are better off looking at the GLE. Moreover, the top configuration will be cheaper than the competitor. The X6 is perfect for drive enthusiasts.
Which to Choose?
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