2025 BMW X5 vs 2025 GLE in Lynchburg, VA
2025 X5 vs 2025 GLE
Shopping for a luxury SUV that’s as sharp in style as it is in performance? The 2025 BMW X5 and 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE are two standout options – but when you compare what matters most, the X5 stands above. At BMW of Lynchburg, we see drivers choose the X5 for its powerful performance, smart technology, and commanding design. It blends dynamic handling with driver-focused comfort, offering an experience that feels just as rewarding on twisty roads as it does cruising through Lynchburg. If you're looking for a luxury SUV that checks every box, the 2025 BMW X5 is ready.
Interior Comparison
The BMW X5 doesn’t just pamper – it prioritizes intuitive design and function. The cabin wraps you in premium materials like available Merino leather and finely crafted wood or aluminum trim. The curved digital display merges a 12.3-inch gauge cluster with a 14.9-inch touchscreen under one seamless panel, giving the dash a clean, futuristic feel. Seating is spacious and supportive for five, with available upgrades like ventilated, massaging front seats and a panoramic Sky Lounge LED roof.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE brings quality to the table as well, with an elegant cabin design and premium materials. Its dual-screen layout spans across the dashboard, and optional third-row seating increases versatility. That said, the GLE's tech interface isn't quite as intuitive as BMW's iDrive system, and the optional third row is tight even for kids.
2025 BMW X5 | 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE |
Rows: Two Max Seating: Five Max Cargo Capacity: 72.3 cubic feet Upholstery Options: Synthetic Leather Upholstery (Standard) / Genuine Leather Upholstery (Optional) | Rows: Two (Optional Third Row) Max Seating: Five (Seven with Third Row) Max Cargo Capacity: 74.9 cubic feet Upholstery Options: Synthetic Leather Upholstery (Standard) / Genuine Leather Upholstery (Optional) |
Power and Performance
Here’s where the BMW X5 truly distances itself. Even the base model brings a turbocharged 375-horsepower inline-six that feels smooth, responsive, and eager. With standard xDrive all-wheel drive, you get confident traction in all seasons. Want more? The X5 M60i punches out 523 horsepower and rockets from zero to 60 in about four seconds. It handles like a smaller vehicle thanks to precision steering and an adaptive suspension that smooths out rough pavement while sharpening cornering response.
The GLE’s base engine trails behind with 255 horsepower and a more sedate throttle feel. Higher trims do offer stronger engines – including a 375-horsepower inline-six – but those come at a steeper price, and the GLE never feels quite as composed or quick-witted as the X5.
2025 BMW X5 | 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE |
Base Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline-Six (40i) Horsepower: 375 Torque: 398 lb-ft of torque Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission | Base Engine: Turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-Cylinder Horsepower: 255 Torque: 295 lb-ft Transmission: Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission |
Available Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline-Six (50e) Horsepower: 483 Torque: 516 lb-ft Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission | Available Engine: Turbocharged 3.0-liter Inline-Six Horsepower: 375 Torque: 369 lb-ft Transmission: Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission |
Available Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 (M60i) Horsepower: 523 Torque: 553 lb-ft Transmission: Eight-Speed Automatic Transmission | Available Engine: Twin-Turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 Horsepower: 510 Torque: 538 lb-ft Transmission: Nine-Speed Automatic Transmission |
Tech and Entertainment
The BMW X5’s technology isn’t just advanced – it’s streamlined. The new iDrive 8.5 system is fast, easy to use, and beautifully integrated into the dashboard. Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ are wireless and standard, and BMW’s Intelligent Personal Assistant understands natural voice commands with ease. Gesture controls and augmented-reality navigation add futuristic flair.
The GLE features a wide-screen layout and MBUX infotainment, but its voice commands can feel clunky, and some features require more menu-digging. Standard safety features are strong in both models, including forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control.
2025 BMW X5 Top Technology Features | 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE Top Technology Features |
|
|
Safety Features
​The BMW X5 gives drivers peace of mind with a long list of standard safety features, including Forward Collision Warning, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Departure Warning, and a Rearview Camera with dynamic guidelines. Available features like Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go, Parking Assistant Plus, and a 3D Surround View add even more confidence in tight spaces or on the highway.
The GLE also includes strong standard safety tech, with options like adaptive cruise and active lane-keeping assist – but many features require added packages. In terms of what’s included right out of the gate, the X5 takes the lead.
2025 BMW X5 Standard Safety Features | Mercedes-Benz GLE Standard Safety Features |
|
|
BMW of Lynchburg’s Bottom Line
If you're shopping for a luxury SUV that’s powerful, intuitive, and engaging to drive, the 2025 BMW X5 leads the way. It delivers the muscle, tech, and comfort that discerning drivers want, without overcomplicating the experience. The GLE offers plenty of luxury, but it can’t quite match the performance feel or clean execution of the X5.
Ready to feel the difference yourself? Visit BMW of Lynchburg and experience the 2025 BMW X5 in person. Schedule your test drive today and let the X5 show you what luxury driving should feel like.
*Burmester is a registered trademark of Burmester Audiosysteme GmbH, Berlin, Germany.
*Disclaimer: This content was drafted with AI assistance for initial drafting, reviewed by a subject-matter expert for accuracy, and edited by our team of writers and editors.