BMW X6 vs Mercedes GLE Coupe: Luxury SUV Coupes Compared

Are you in the market for a luxury SUV that combines the practicality of an SUV with the sleek, stylish design of a coupe? If so, the BMW X6 and Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe are two compelling options to consider. These vehicles offer a unique blend of features that may appeal to drivers seeking a blend of performance, utility, and head-turning style. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the key differences between the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe, covering everything from design and performance to interior amenities and pricing.

Exterior Design and Styling

One of the defining characteristics of the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe is their distinct coupe-like silhouette. Both vehicles feature a sloping roofline that tapers towards the rear, giving them a sportier, more aerodynamic look compared to traditional SUVs.

The BMW X6 has a bold, aggressive stance with its large kidney grille, sculpted hood, and sharp character lines along the body. The rear end features slim, wraparound taillights and a subtle integrated spoiler. Wheel options range from 19-inch alloy wheels on lower trims to larger 21-inch wheels on higher trim levels.

The Mercedes GLE Coupe takes a slightly more elegant approach with its rounded edges and flowing lines. The front fascia features Mercedes’ distinctive diamond-patterned grille and sleek LED headlights. At the rear, the GLE Coupe has a steeply raked liftgate and dual exhaust outlets integrated into the bumper. It rides on standard 20-inch alloy wheels, with larger 22-inch options available.

Performance Specs

Under the hood, both the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe offer potent powertrains that deliver thrilling performance.

The BMW X6 comes standard with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that produces 335 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque. For even more power, there’s an available 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 that cranks out 523 horsepower and 553 lb-ft of torque. All X6 models come equipped with an eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system.

The Mercedes GLE Coupe lineup starts with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that generates 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. For true performance enthusiasts, the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe packs a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 that unleashes 603 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. A nine-speed automatic transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel drive are standard across the GLE Coupe range.

How They Drive

Despite their size and heft, both the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe deliver surprising agility and engaging driving dynamics.

The X6’s suspension is tuned for a balanced ride that leans towards the sportier side of the spectrum. The steering is precise and communicative, and the powerful brakes provide reassuring stopping power. Even with its raised ride height, the X6 handles corners with minimal body roll.

The GLE Coupe’s suspension aims for a more comfortable, luxurious ride quality while still offering decent athleticism. The steering is light and easy to manage, making the GLE Coupe feel smaller than it is. While not quite as sharp as the X6 in hard cornering, the GLE Coupe remains composed and stable.

Interior Luxury and Technology

Inside, both the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe offer well-appointed cabins with premium materials and the latest tech features.

The X6’s interior is quintessentially BMW, with a driver-focused cockpit layout and high-quality leather and wood trim accents. The standard seating capacity is five, but the optional third row increases capacity to seven, albeit with tight quarters in the very back. Cargo space is generous, with up to 59.6 cubic feet of room with the rear seats folded.

Tech highlights for the X6 include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch central infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a host of advanced driver aids like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.

The Mercedes GLE Coupe also seats five passengers in its standard configuration, but it lacks a third-row option. With the rear seats folded, it offers a maximum cargo capacity of 60.7 cubic feet. The cabin exudes luxury with diamond-quilted leather upholstery, real wood trim, and aluminum accents.

On the tech front, the GLE Coupe boasts Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, voice control, and optional augmented reality navigation. Other available features include a head-up display, a Burmester premium audio system, and cutting-edge driver aids like Active Lane Change Assist and Traffic Sign Assist.

Pricing and Trims

The BMW X6 has a lower starting price than the Mercedes GLE Coupe, but both vehicles can quickly become expensive as you move up the trim levels and add optional packages.

The 2023 BMW X6 sDrive40i (rear-wheel drive) kicks things off at $73,900, while the xDrive40i (all-wheel drive) starts at $76,400. The range-topping X6 M Competition model with the twin-turbo V8 starts at $120,295.

On the Mercedes side, the 2023 GLE 450 4MATIC Coupe has a base price of $76,950. The fire-breathing AMG GLE 63 S Coupe kicks off at $121,300. Fully loaded, both the X6 and GLE Coupe can easily surpass $130,000 with all the bells and whistles.

The Bottom Lines

In the world of luxury SUVs, the BMW X6 and Mercedes GLE Coupe stand out with their unique coupe-like profiles that blend SUV practicality with head-turning style. While they may share a similar overall concept, these two vehicles have distinct personalities that cater to different types of drivers.

The BMW X6 is the sportier, more dynamic choice, with precise handling, potent engine options, and a slightly lower price point across most trim levels. It’s an excellent pick for driving enthusiasts who want a family hauler that doesn’t sacrifice driving thrills.

On the other hand, the Mercedes GLE Coupe leans more towards luxury and comfort, prioritizing a smooth, refined ride and an exquisitely appointed cabin. It’s the ideal choice for those who prefer to be pampered while still enjoying the practicality and presence of an SUV.

Whichever route you choose, you can’t go wrong with either the BMW X6 or the Mercedes GLE Coupe. Both offer a compelling blend of style, performance, and utility that’s sure to turn heads and put a smile on your face every time you get behind the wheel.