Those in the market for a compact luxury SUV can find a satisfying match in either of the models in this 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2018 BMW X3 comparison. The Mercedes-Benz crossover returns for the new model year with options ranging from the attractive and well-equipped 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 base trim, to the staggeringly-powered 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 43 AMG®. The 2018 BMW X3, which will launch in fall of 2017, has received a redesign for the year and will be available in the base X3 xDrive30i model or a high-powered M40i version.
The Mercedes-Benz and BMW crossovers in this comparison have very different power and pricing depending on their models. The base 2018 BMW X3 has a lower starting price than the Mercedes-Benz model, but it also comes in with significantly less engine output with its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine compared to the 302 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350. In upper trims, this pattern reverses. Explore the details of base engine output and pricing below.
While both of these compact crossovers can offer premium engine options, another good place to compare them is on the interior and in the cargo area. While we don't have solid numbers yet for the cargo space for the 2018 BMW X3, historically the Mercedes-Benz model has significantly more room. In 2016 the X3 had just 63.3 cubic feet of maximum cargo space, compared with the 80.3 cubic feet available on the Mercedes-Benz GLE. The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE will once again offer 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded down, and we assume that it will still have more space than the BMW.
Other elite standard features on the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE include ATTENTION ASSIST®, Active Brake Assist, Mercedes-Benz PRESAFE®*, rain-sensing windshield wipers, and adaptive braking technology. Many of these may be available on the 2018 BMW X3, but likely not all of them will be standard.
If you are interested in learning more about this comparison, or even test driving the 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE in Kansas City MO, contact a member of the Mercedes-Benz of Kansas City sales team today or explore our inventory.
*PRESAFE closes the side windows when the system's sensors detect side movements that suggest a possible rollover. A small gap is left near the fully closed position. Seat and head restraints adjust only when equipped with memory system.
