Mercedes-Benz GLE VS BMW X4 - Which It The Real Deal In The Mid Sized Premium Crossover Segment?

Mercedes has played catch-up to BMW in the world of large, swoopy SUVs, as its GLE Coupe was released seven years after the first X6.

However, the brand has learned from its mistakes, and is wasting no time capitalising on the trend for compact curvy off-roaders with its GLC Coupe. Based on the C-Class, the newcomer is, as its name suggests, a mid-size 4x4 with more svelte, coupe-like styling.

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cidflekken - 1/18/2017 4:05:21 PM

+6 Boost

Even though the X4 is essentially a mini-me of the X6, for some reason the styling just doesn't have the same effect. The X4 has the same visual impact as the 3GT or 5GT, which isn't good. The GLC Coupe looks really nice in person, just like the GLE Coupe. And there just isn't a contest in terms of interior design. The GLC Coupe takes it, hands down.

dumpsty - 1/19/2017 9:16:35 AM

+2 Boost

Totally agree.

I almost lost my mind a couple months ago, when I saw a GLE43 AMG Coupe at night. The scale & overall exterior visual was just right. Very sporty, not overly imposing & the AMG badge promised it could definitely perform.

Alternatively, I'm a total fan of the 640/650 Gran Coupe & I wouldn't turn down an X6 M Sport or X6M. The GLC & GLE have very balanced proportions.

TheSteve - 1/18/2017 4:50:55 PM

+3 Boost

After having owned a number of BMWs for over 18 years, I got my first non-BMW. Today's BMWs just don't do it for me. Not that they've "gone downhill" or they're bad or anything. I just don't care for their styling.

For that reason alone I'd go the Mercedes. The GLE doesn't warm my heart. The new GLC does, for the most part, except for a few things like headlights and stuck-on-iPad. Otherwise, beautiful, inside and out.

nguyenvuminh - 1/18/2017 5:50:58 PM

+3 Boost

Interesting tidbit about BMW "... pricier to buy and run...". I suppose it's consistent with what's happening here in the the US but I was surprised that it's prevalent enough to be pointed out specifically.

MDarringer - 1/18/2017 6:58:40 PM

+2 Boost

The Mercedes for me.

pmrmd - 1/18/2017 7:12:02 PM

+2 Boost

I can't comprehend why anyone would by either of them.

skytop - 1/18/2017 11:34:51 PM

0 Boost

Two FUGLY pig vehicles, for sure.

GermanNut - 1/19/2017 3:31:10 PM

+2 Boost

The X4's sales in the U.S. declined 22% in 2016. Part of that decline is due to the Mercedes-Benz GLE stealing buyers and part of it is due to BMW's lack of distinct styling for the X4 (looks too similar to 3GT and 5GT) and poor interior.

BMW will need to rethink its strategy in the United States very quickly because it is losing marketshare to Mercedes-Benz and Audi at a rapid clip. Audi is bringing the new Q5 and A5/S5 Coupe and Sportback models to the U.S. in 2017.

cidflekken - 1/20/2017 11:12:19 AM

+1 Boost

the headline is incorrect. This is the GLC Coupe, not the GLE.