Lexus GX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE
A detailed look at how two of Australia's most popular SUVs compare on price, running costs, safety, and everyday livability.
Specifications and pricing correct at time of publishing. Prices are RRP before on-road costs unless stated otherwise. Always confirm with the manufacturer or dealer before purchasing.
Price Breakdown
The Lexus GX starts from $119,950 before on-road costs, while the Mercedes-Benz GLE opens at $128,900. That makes the Lexus GX the more affordable entry point by $8,950.
Once you factor in stamp duty, registration, CTP insurance, and dealer delivery, expect to add roughly 8-12% on top of the RRP depending on your state. That puts estimated driveaway prices in the ballpark of $131,945 and $141,790 respectively.
Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.
Safety Rundown
Both the Lexus GX and Mercedes-Benz GLE hold a 5-star ANCAP safety rating.
Where the two diverge is in active safety technology. The Mercedes-Benz GLE packs more ADAS features with 7 out of 10 key systems fitted, compared to 4 in the Lexus GX.
Both include the essentials: lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, a reversing camera.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Lexus GX stands out with ventilated seats that you will not find on the Mercedes-Benz GLE. The Mercedes-Benz GLE counters with panoramic roof, Burmester audio and ambient lighting. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.
Drivetrain
The Lexus GX uses a Petrol producing 262kW and 650Nm of torque, sent through a 10-speed auto to a 4WD layout.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE responds with a Diesel making 195kW and 500Nm, paired to a automatic driving all four wheels. It gets to 100km/h in 7.3 seconds.
The Lexus GX has the clear power advantage at 262kW vs 195kW. For most buyers, the way each car feels day-to-day matters more than outright acceleration.
Space & Comfort
The Lexus GX measures 4,955mm long on a 2,850mm wheelbase, 31mm longer than the Mercedes-Benz GLE at 4,924mm (2,995mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz GLE generally means more rear legroom.
Boot space is 390L in the Lexus GX and 630L in the Mercedes-Benz GLE, giving the Mercedes-Benz GLE a 240L advantage.
For towing, the Mercedes-Benz GLE leads with a 3,500kg braked capacity vs 3,500kg. That 0kg difference matters if you regularly hitch up.
Turning Circle
Kerb-to-kerb diameter. Smaller turns easier in tight carparks and U-turns.
12.1m diameter
Large
Based on 12.1m turning circle:
- U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
- Standard parking bay
- Tight carparks
- Narrow laneways
Turning circle ratings
True Cost to Own
Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,850/year for the Lexus GX and $2,708/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLE. That is a $142 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz GLE.
Estimated annual total: $2,850 (Lexus GX) vs $2,708 (Mercedes-Benz GLE). The Mercedes-Benz GLE saves you roughly $142 per year in total ownership costs. Use our Fuel Cost Calculator to estimate based on your driving.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus GX) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLE). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Lexus GX if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLE if: You need more boot space, want lower running costs, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
This is genuinely close. The Lexus GX and Mercedes-Benz GLE trade blows across the spec sheet, and neither runs away with an outright win. The Mercedes-Benz GLE will save you roughly $142 a year in fuel. If boot space matters, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has a clear edge. The best pick depends on what you value most. Explore the full specs for each model below.
Disclaimer: All information in this comparison was believed to be correct at the time of publishing (20 April 2026). Prices are manufacturer recommended retail prices (RRP) and may vary by state, dealer, and options. Driveaway costs include estimated on-road costs for Victoria. Fuel economy figures are WLTP/ADR combined cycle. Specifications can change without notice. Always verify with the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. CarSorted does not accept payment for recommendations.
Published by CarSorted Editorial Team · 20 April 2026
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