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HomeComparisonsMercedes-Benz GLE vs Lexus GX
Spec Battle Updated 20 April 2026 5 min read

Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Lexus GX

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.

SpecMercedes-BenzLexus
Price (RRP)$128,900$119,950
Power195kW262kW
0-100 km/h7.3s
Fuel Economy9.5 L/100km10 L/100km
Boot Space630L390L
Towing3,500kg3,500kg
Warranty5yr / 999.999k km5yr / 999.999k km
ANCAP Safety5 Stars5 Stars

Price Breakdown

The Mercedes-Benz GLE starts from $128,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus GX opens at $119,950. 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 $141,790 and $131,945 respectively.

Over 5 years, the running costs are nearly identical since both have similar efficiency.

Safety Rundown

Both the Mercedes-Benz GLE and Lexus GX 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 Mercedes-Benz GLE stands out with panoramic roof, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus GX. The Lexus GX counters with ventilated seats. Which feature set matters more depends on your daily routine and priorities.

Drivetrain

The Mercedes-Benz GLE uses a Diesel producing 195kW and 500Nm of torque, sent through a automatic to a AWD layout. It covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 7.3 seconds.

The Lexus GX responds with a Petrol making 262kW and 650Nm, paired to a 10-speed auto driving the rear wheels.

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 Mercedes-Benz GLE measures 4,924mm long on a 2,995mm wheelbase, 31mm shorter than the Lexus GX at 4,955mm (2,850mm wheelbase). The longer wheelbase on the Mercedes-Benz GLE generally means more rear legroom.

Boot space is 630L in the Mercedes-Benz GLE and 390L in the Lexus GX, giving the Mercedes-Benz GLE a 240L advantage.

For towing, the Lexus GX 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

Mercedes-Benz GLE GLE300d 4MATIC
12.1m
Mercedes-Benz GLE
12.1m · Large

Based on 12.1m turning circle:

  • U-turn on standard street (7m+ wide)
  • Standard parking bay
  • Tight carparks
  • Narrow laneways

Turning circle ratings

Under 10m, Excellent
10 to 11m, Good
11 to 12m, Average
Over 12m, Large

True Cost to Own

Based on 15,000km of annual driving, fuel costs roughly $2,708/year for the Mercedes-Benz GLE and $2,850/year for the Lexus GX. That is a $142 annual difference in favour of the Mercedes-Benz GLE.

Estimated annual total: $2,708 (Mercedes-Benz GLE) vs $2,850 (Lexus GX). 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 (Mercedes-Benz GLE) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus GX). Both match on warranty length.

Who Should Buy Which?

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.

Buy the Lexus GX if: You want the lower entry price, prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.

The Verdict

This is genuinely close. The Mercedes-Benz GLE and Lexus GX 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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