Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs BMW iX
The BMW iX is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 97 mpg combined versus 25 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, a 72 mpg advantage and costs about $2,350 less per year to fuel.
Across 4 measured categories, the BMW iX leads in 4. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2016–2026
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 92 configurations
2022–2026
BMW iX
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 35 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class | BMW iX |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 25 mpg | 97 mpg ✓ |
| Best city MPG | 23 mpg | 99 mpg ✓ |
| Best highway MPG | 29 mpg | 94 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $3,150 | $800 ✓ |
| Lowest CO2 output | 99 g/mi | Not available |
| Engines offered | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; FFV | Not available |
| Transmissions | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd | Automatic (A1) |
| Drivetrains | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Premium, Premium and Electricity, Premium or E85 | Electricity |
| EPA class | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Years covered | 2016–2026 | 2022–2026 |
| Configurations on record | 92 | 35 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
GLE-Class vs iX: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class or the BMW iX?
The BMW iX is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 97 mpg combined versus 25 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, a 72 mpg advantage and costs about $2,350 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the BMW iX runs about $800 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $3,150 for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class — a difference of roughly $2,350 per year.
What engines do the GLE-Class and iX offer?
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; FFV. BMW iX: no engine data on record.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and the BMW iX as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD, so they compete directly.
More GLE-Class comparisons
Comparison id: mercedes-benz-gle-class-vs-bmw-ix