Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Lexus RZ
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 Mercedes-Benz GLE starts from $128,900 before on-road costs, while the Lexus RZ opens at $135,000. That makes the Mercedes-Benz GLE the more affordable entry point by $6,100.
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 $148,500 respectively.
The Lexus RZ qualifies for FBT exemption as an electric vehicle, which can dramatically reduce the effective cost for novated lease buyers. The Mercedes-Benz GLE, as a petrol model, does not qualify.
Safety Rundown
ANCAP safety ratings have not been published for both models yet. We will update this section when crash test results are available.
Feature Showdown
Both come with modern infotainment systems. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across both.
The Mercedes-Benz GLE stands out with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, wireless charging, panoramic roof, Burmester audio and ambient lighting that you will not find on the Lexus RZ. The Lexus RZ counters with Apple CarPlay, V2L and Mark Levinson audio. 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 RZ responds with a Electric Motor making 230kW and 435Nm, paired to a automatic. It gets to 100km/h in 5 seconds.
The Lexus RZ has the clear power advantage at 230kW vs 195kW. In the real-world sprint, the Lexus RZ is 2.3s quicker. 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, 119mm longer than the Lexus RZ at 4,805mm (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 522L in the Lexus RZ, giving the Mercedes-Benz GLE a 108L advantage. The Mercedes-Benz GLE seats 7 vs 5.
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
Running cost data is not yet available for both models. We will update when figures are confirmed.
Warranty: 5 years / 999,999km (Mercedes-Benz GLE) vs 5 years / 999,999km (Lexus RZ). Both match on warranty length.
Who Should Buy Which?
Buy the Mercedes-Benz GLE if: You want the lower entry price, need more boot space, or prefer Mercedes-Benz's approach to design and ownership experience.
Buy the Lexus RZ if: You prioritise performance, or prefer Lexus's approach to design and ownership experience.
The Verdict
The Lexus RZ takes 4 of 6 key spec categories. 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.
Common questions
Which is cheapest, Mercedes-Benz GLE and Lexus RZ?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE is the cheapest at $128,900 before on-road costs. That undercuts the Lexus RZ by $6,100.
Which is the most fuel-efficient?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE uses the least fuel at 7.4L/100km on the combined cycle.
Which is safest?
They are evenly matched — Mercedes-Benz GLE all hold a 5-star ANCAP rating. Compare the active-safety features above to separate them.
Which has the most boot space?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has the largest boot at 630L.
Which can tow the most?
The Mercedes-Benz GLE has the highest braked towing capacity at 3,500kg.
Which is the most powerful?
The Lexus RZ makes the most power at 230kW. The Lexus RZ is quickest to 100km/h in 5s.
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.
Auto-generated from CarSorted's specification data · 20 April 2026
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