Mercedes-Benz and Acura are two auto manufacturers that do not normally get compared to one another, but when it comes to entry-level luxury, Acura is more than a worthy opponent against a lot of the Mercedes-Benz lineup. If you are on the fence between a Mercedes-Benz GLE and a 2017 Acura MDX, you are on the right track. Both cars come highly acclaimed and both have their own advantages that could affect a purchasing decision.

On the outside, the two SUVs look very similar despite their origins. The Acura is about two inches longer in total and a few inches shorter. This means the GLE is better suited for off-road driving than the MDX, but it also means the MDX is a little more stable on pavement. On the inside, the largest difference is seating capacity. The Acura MDX can actually hold 7 passengers where the GLE only has room for 5. Still, there is a lot more headroom and legroom in the GLE, helping it regain the comfort advantage.

2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 SUV	VS	2017 Acura MDX Advance Package
3.5L V6	Engine	3.5L V6
302	Horsepower	290
273 lb-ft	Torque	267 lb-ft
6,600 lbs	Towing Capacity	3,500 lbs

Mercedes-Benz AMG® Performance

Sure, the MDX and the GLE both come with a 3.5L V6 engine. They may even have similar power output measurements. This makes them look like the same car in a quick overview, but thanks to the extra torque and heightened stance of the GLE, it can pull almost twice as much as the Acura MDX. Of course, if you aren't going to be pulling anything with your SUV, this may not be a deal breaker, but when a time finally comes when you need to pull a trailer, we guarantee you will be disappointed by the performance of the MDX.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz GLE has an MSRP that is roughly $10,000 more than the Acura. This looks good on paper, but if you want the same features in the Acura that come in the GLE, you will need to get the Advanced Package, which costs about $10,000. The GLE is more powerful, can pull more weight, and costs about the same for the value. If you have any questions about the GLE SUV, come to Mercedes-Benz of Scottsdale today for a test drive!