Volvo XC90 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Mid-size Luxury SUVs Go Head-to-Head

The luxury SUV segment in India recently saw some action with the updated Volvo XC90. It now not only sports a refreshed look but also an upgraded cabin with new tech. This update also rekindles its rivalry with the Mercedes-Benz GLE, which, unlike the XC90, offers multiple powertrain options but lacks a three-row seating layout. Unsure which one suits you better? In this report, we break down both SUVs to help you decide which one you should go for.

Dimensions

Despite having a greater length, the Volvo XC90 is a smaller SUV than the Mercedes GLE in every other aspect. It is 92 mm narrower and 24 mm shorter than the GLE, although the latter's measurement includes the roof rails. Notably, the GLE also has a larger wheelbase, but only by 11 mm.

Features

Equipment	Volvo XC90	Mercedes-Benz GLE
LED headlamps with DRLs	Yes	Yes
Wheel-size	20-inch alloy wheels	20-inch alloy wheels
Infotainment	11.2-inch touchscreen infotainment system	12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
Digital Driver’s Display	Yes, 12.3-inch	Yes, 12.3-inch
Android Auto And Apple CarPlay	Yes	Yes
Heads-up display	Yes	Yes
Powered seats	Yes, front seats only	Yes, both front and second-row seats
Seat Ventilation	Yes, along with heated function	Yes
Sunroof	Yes, panoramic	Yes, panoramic
Automatic climate control	Yes, four-zone	Yes, four-zone
Wireless phone charging	Yes	Yes
Sound system	19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins	13-speaker Burmester sound system
Ambient lighting	Yes	Yes
Connected car tech	Yes	Yes
Airbags	7	9
ADAS Features	Yes	No
Tyre Pressure Monitoring System	Yes	Yes
360-degree Camera	Yes	Yes
Electronic parking brake with auto hold function	Yes	Yes

Except for a better-equipped sound system, the Mercedes GLE offers slightly superior amenities in terms of tech and convenience. These include a larger infotainment screen, a larger digital driver’s display, and electrically adjustable seats for both front and second-row passengers. However, the XC90 has an edge in safety with ADAS tech, while both come with features like a 360-degree camera and multiple airbags.

Powertrain Specifications

In the powertrain department, the Mercedes GLE offers three engine options: two diesel units and a single turbo-petrol unit. The latter is the most powerful in GLE's powertrain lineup. Meanwhile, the 3-litre diesel engine is the most torquey option. On the other hand, the Volvo XC90's 2-litre turbo-petrol engine is the least potent, both in terms of power and torque output. Notably, both the XC90 and the GLE are equipped with an all-wheel drivetrain. 

Price and Rivals

Pricing-wise, the Mercedes GLE undercuts the XC90 by Rs 4 lakh, but the top-spec GLE costs Rs 13 lakh more than the XC90. Besides competing with each other, both also face off against the Audi Q7, BMW X5, and the Land Rover Discovery.

Verdict

To conclude, the Mercedes GLE proves to be a smarter choice as it not only offers more powertrain options but also undercuts the XC90. As mentioned above, the GLE also has a slight edge in terms of convenience features while also providing better second-row space with its larger wheelbase. However, the area where the XC90 outshines the GLE is its seven-seat layout configuration and enhanced safety with ADAS. If additional practicality and improved safety are your priorities, then the XC90 is the better choice of the two.

Share your thoughts in the comments about which of the luxury SUVs mentioned you would pick.