Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class vs Rivian R1S
The Rivian R1S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 85 mpg combined versus 25 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, a 60 mpg advantage and costs about $2,250 less per year to fuel.
Across 4 measured categories, the Rivian R1S leads in 4. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2016–2026
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 92 configurations
2022–2027
Rivian R1S
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 94 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class | Rivian R1S |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 25 mpg | 85 mpg ✓ |
| Best city MPG | 23 mpg | 94 mpg ✓ |
| Best highway MPG | 29 mpg | 77 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $3,150 | $900 ✓ |
| 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 | 4-Wheel Drive, Part-time 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 | 2022–2027 |
| Configurations on record | 92 | 94 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
GLE-Class vs R1S: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class or the Rivian R1S?
The Rivian R1S is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 85 mpg combined versus 25 mpg for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, a 60 mpg advantage and costs about $2,250 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Rivian R1S runs about $900 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $3,150 for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class — a difference of roughly $2,250 per year.
What engines do the GLE-Class and R1S offer?
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; FFV. Rivian R1S: no engine data on record.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and the Rivian R1S as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD, so they compete directly.
More GLE-Class comparisons
Comparison id: mercedes-benz-gle-class-vs-rivian-r1s