Toyota 4Runner vs Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 25 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Toyota 4Runner, a 2 mpg advantage and costs about $500 less per year to fuel.
Across 4 measured categories, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class leads in 3. Figures are EPA test data, not manufacturer claims.
2015–2026
Toyota 4Runner
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 42 configurations
2016–2026
Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class
Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD · 92 configurations
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Toyota 4Runner | Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class |
|---|---|---|
| Best combined MPG | 23 mpg | 25 mpg ✓ |
| Best city MPG | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| Best highway MPG | 26 mpg | 29 mpg ✓ |
| Lowest annual fuel costEPA estimate at 15,000 miles per year | $2,650 ✓ | $3,150 |
| Lowest CO2 output | 380 g/mi | 99 g/mi ✓ |
| Engines offered | SIDI & PFI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, 4.0 | SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; FFV |
| Transmissions | Automatic (S8), Automatic (S5) | Automatic 9-spd, Automatic 7-spd |
| Drivetrains | 4-Wheel Drive, Part-time 4-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive | All-Wheel Drive, Rear-Wheel Drive, 4-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel types | Regular | Premium, Premium and Electricity, Premium or E85 |
| EPA class | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD | Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD |
| Years covered | 2015–2026 | 2016–2026 |
| Configurations on record | 42 | 92 |
Source: EPA fuel economy records via fueleconomy.gov. Best-case values across all recorded configurations for each model.
4Runner vs GLE-Class: common questions
Which is better on gas, the Toyota 4Runner or the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is the more efficient of the two: it reaches 25 mpg combined versus 23 mpg for the Toyota 4Runner, a 2 mpg advantage and costs about $500 less per year to fuel.
Which costs less to run per year?
By EPA estimates at 15,000 miles a year, the Toyota 4Runner runs about $2,650 a year in fuel at its most efficient configuration, versus about $3,150 for the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class — a difference of roughly $500 per year.
What engines do the 4Runner and GLE-Class offer?
Toyota 4Runner: SIDI & PFI; Hybrid, SIDI & PFI, SIDI & PFI; with Stop-Start, 4.0. Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class: SIDI; Mild Hybrid, SIDI; PHEV, SIDI, SIDI; FFV.
Are they in the same vehicle class?
Yes — the EPA classifies both the Toyota 4Runner and the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class as Standard Sport Utility Vehicle 4WD, so they compete directly.
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Comparison id: toyota-4runner-vs-mercedes-benz-gle-class