Comparison - Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 350 4MATIC 2018 - vs - Ford Explorer Platinum 2018

General

Other Names:

Also called:

M-Class

Also called:

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Average Price: 
54,700
Updated: 
23 Mar 2018
53,940
Updated: 
17 Feb 2018
Car Type: 
SUV
SUV
Drive Type: 
All Wheel Drive
All Wheel Drive
Year: 
2018
2018
Total Seating: 
5
7
Transmission: 
9-speed Shiftable Automatic
6-speed Shiftable Automatic
Bluetooth: 
yes
yes
Heated seats: 
yes
yes
Navigation: 
yes
yes
Doors: 
5
5
Fuel Tank Capacity: 
24.60gals
18.60gals
Exterior Colors: 
Color: 
Black
#000000
Brilliant Blue Metallic
#0F0F96
Dakota Brown Metallic
#403524
Diamond Silver Metallic
#C5CDD2
Iridium Silver Metallic
#ADB1B2
Lunar Blue Metallic
#18294B
Obsidian Black Metallic
#211810
Polar White
#E1E0DE
Selenite Grey Metallic
#74849F
designo Cardinal Red Metallic
#A02C32
designo Diamond White Metallic
#EDE4D7
Color: 
Blue Jeans Metallic
#486478
Ingot Silver Metallic
#C4C4C8
Oxford White
#E4E4E4
Ruby Red Metallic Tinted Clearcoat
#8E1C26
Shadow Black
#242424

Expert Reviews

Expert reviews: 

The 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class ranked #12 in Luxury Midsize SUVs. Currently the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 46 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

Pros
Lots of powerful engine choices
Posh interior
Above-average cargo space (in non-coupe models)
Lengthy features list

Cons
Less athletic than many competitors
Coupe has limited cargo space and visibility
Finicky engine stop-start system

By: 
usnews.com

Performance, plug-in, or pedestrian: there’s a 2018 Mercedes-Benz GLE for almost every luxury-SUV buyer.

Pros
Wide palette of body styles, powertrains, trims
GLE Coupe, for the well-to-do contrarian
Powertrain choice abounds
Composed, quiet ride

Cons
AMG = $$$
Not so fuel-efficient
Addled infotainment interface
Odd feature availability
Coupe body costs money, space

By: 
thecarconnection.com

The AMG GLE 43 is slightly more powerful, increasing engine output from 362 horsepower to 385 hp. Otherwise, the Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is unchanged for 2018.

PROS
Multiple available powertrains make each model distinct
Interior is quiet, upscale and roomy
Abundant list of standard safety, tech and luxury features
AMG variants are seriously quick

CONS
Not many places to store small personal items
Punishing ride on AMG models, with little benefit to handling
Ride quality with the standard suspension isn't as comfy as we expect
Base V6's acceleration is merely adequate

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2018 Ford Explorer ranked #9 in Midsize SUVs. Currently the Ford Explorer has a score of 8.3 out of 10 which is based on our evaluation of 68 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.

Pros
Large cargo area behind third-row seat
Meaty twin-turbo V6 available
High predicted reliability rating

Cons
Seats aren't as comfy or roomy as some
Thirsty engines
Feels massive to drive

By: 
usnews.com

The Explorer receives only minor changes for 2018, with subtle styling tweaks at the front and rear, an integrated 4G LTE hotspot and revised feature availability.

PROS
Plenty of high-tech features that are easy to use
Optional turbocharged V6 engine delivers plentiful power
Cabin is quiet and comfortable on the highway
Cargo space is generous behind the third row

CONS
Legroom in the third row is subpar
Depending on trim level, feels big and ponderous from behind the wheel

By: 
edmunds.com

The 2018 Ford Explorer has pulled off a graceful transition from clumsy off-roader to genteel family wagon.

Pros
A utility player, in the classic sense
Very good handling
Better fuel economy ratings
Improved infotainment, now with 4G LTE
Lovely Sport tuning

Cons
The EPA’s optimistic with those turbo ratings
Platinum content, platinum prices
Second-row seat needs padding, less tilt
Third-row seat needs more of everything

By: 
thecarconnection.com

Fuel

Fuel Type: 
Premium Unleaded
Regular Unleaded
Fuel Economy City USA: 
18.00mpg
16.00mpg
Fuel Economy HWY: 
22.00mpg
22.00mpg
Engine type: 
Petrol/Gas
Petrol/Gas

Engine and Performance

Valves: 
24
24
Cylinders: 
6
V
6
V
Engine Size/Displacement: 
3.50L
3.50L
Torque: 
273ft-lbs
at 3 500rpm
350ft-lbs
at 3 500rpm
Horsepower: 
302hp
at 6 500rpm
365hp
at 5 500rpm
Cam Type: 
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Double overhead cam (DOHC)
Turning Circle: 
38.70Feet
39.80Feet

Convenience

Cruise Control: 
yes
no
Door Pockets: 
yes
yes
Cupholders: 
yes
yes
Overhead console: 
yes
yes
Seatback Storage: 
yes
yes
Power Steering: 
yes
yes
Parking sensors: 
no
yes
Steering Wheel Tilt: 
yes
yes
Telescopic steering wheel: 
yes
yes
Rear View Camera: 
yes
yes
Front view Camera: 
no
yes
Side view Camera: 
no
no
On steering wheel: 
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
Transmission, cruise and audio controls on steering wheel
More in Convenience: 
Universal Remote Transmitter (For Garage Door, Security System, Etc.)
Leather Steering Wheel
Turn Signal In Mirrors
Keyless Ignition
Electrochromatic Inside Rearview Mirror
driver assisted parking assist
Universal remote transmitter (for garage door, security system, etc.)
adaptive cruise control
Adjustable pedals
Keyless Ignition
electrochromatic inside rearview mirror

Exterior Dimensions

Length: 
189.10in
198.30in
Width: 
78.90in
78.90in
Height: 
70.70in
71.00in
Ground Clearance: 
9.10in
7.80in
Front Track: 
65.90in
67.00in
Rear Track: 
66.70in
67.00in
Wheel Base: 
114.80in
112.80in

Interior Dimensions

Front Head Room: 
38.90
41.40
Rear Head Room: 
38.50
40.60
Front Leg Room: 
40.30in
42.90in
Rear leg room: 
38.40in
39.50in
Front Hip Room: 
57.30in
Front Shoulder Room: 
58.50in
61.50in
Rear Hip Room: 
56.80in
Rear Shoulder room: 
58.40in
61.00in

Weights and capacites

Cargo Capacity: 
80.30cu.ft
81.70cu.ft
Maximum Towing Capacity un-break: 
7200lbs
5000lbs
Cargo Capacity with Seats in Place: 
38.20cu.ft
21.00cu.ft
Angle of Approach: 
15.60degrees
Angle of Departure: 
20.90degrees
Curb Weight: 
4751.00lbs
4458.00lbs

Instruments

External Temperature Display: 
yes
yes
Clock: 
yes
yes
Trip computer: 
yes
yes
Techometer: 
yes
yes
Compass: 
no
yes

Power Features

Power windows: 
yes
yes
Remote Keyless doors: 
yes
yes
More Power Features: 
Heated mirrors
4 One-Touch Power Windows
Remote Keyless Power Door Locks
2 one-touch power windows
Heated mirrors
hands-free entry

Seats

Rear Seat Collapsible: 
yes
yes
Front Seats Features: 
10 -way power driver seat
6-Way Manual Passenger Seat Adjustment
Height adjustable driver seat
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Bucket Front Seats
Leatherette
8 -way power driver seat
Bucket front seats
Height adjustable passenger seat
Multi-level heating driver seat
Driver seat with power adjustable lumbar support
8 -way power passenger seat
Height adjustable driver seat
Multi-level heating passenger seat
Passenger seat with power adjustable lumbar support
Massaging
passenger cooled seat
driver cooled seat
Rear Seats Features: 
Folding Center Armrest
Rear ventilation ducts
Split-folding rear seatback
Folding center armrest
Rear ventilation ducts with fan control
Power folding split-bench third row seats
Split-folding rear seatback
reclining rear seats
multi-level heating

Suspension

Front Suspension: 
Front stabilizer bar
Front stabilizer bar
Rear Suspension: 
Rear stabilizer bar
Rear stabilizer bar
Suspension Info: 
Four-wheel independent suspension
Four-wheel independent suspension

Comfort

Interior air Filtration: 
yes
yes
Climate Control: 
yes
yes
More Comfort Features: 
Leather Steering Wheel
Turn signal in mirrors
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Dual illuminating vanity mirrors
Leather steering wheel
Turn signal in mirrors
Heated steering wheel
Front and rear air conditioning

Entertainment

DVD player: 
no
no
AM/FM Radio: 
yes
yes
Satellite radio: 
yes
yes
Video monitor: 
no
yes
More Entertainment: 
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
USB connection
Auxiliary audio input and USB with external media control
Memory card slot
Surround audio surround audio (discrete)
Sony premium brand speakers
500 Watts Stereo Output
1 subwoofer(s)
12 total speakers
6 Months of provided satellite radio service
Sony premium brand stero system

Exterior Features

Sunroof: 
yes
no
Rear defogger: 
yes
yes
More in Glass and Roof: 
Intermittent rear wiper
Manual sunshades for rear side windows
One-touch power sunroof
Privacy glass
Remote sunroof operation
Variable intermittent rain sensing wipers
Roof rack
Privacy glass
Rear window wiper
Variable intermittent wipers
Roof rack
Alloy Wheels: 
yes
yes
Wheel size: 
19 X 8.5-In
20 in
Wheels more: 
All-Season Tires
Underbody mounted spare tire
All season tires
Temporary spare tire
Wheel Dimensions: 
Width: 
255.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Diameter: 
R19
Width: 
255.00millimeters
Aspect Ratio: 
50
Diameter: 
R20

Safety Features

ABS: 
yes
yes
Front head airbags: 
yes
yes
Rear head airbags: 
yes
yes
Dual front side-mounted airbags: 
yes
yes
Emergency braking assist: 
yes
yes
Traction control: 
yes
yes
Child seat anchors: 
yes
yes
Front brakes: 
Ventilated front disc brakes
Front ventilated disc brakes
Stability control: 
yes
yes
Rear brakes: 
Rear ventilated disc brakes
rear ventilated disc brakes
Rear door child safety locks: 
yes
yes
Daytime running lights: 
yes
yes
Engine immobilizer: 
yes
yes
Front fog lights: 
yes
yes
Dusk sensing headlamps: 
yes
yes
Auto delay off headlamps: 
yes
yes
Front headrests: 
yes
yes
Rear headrests: 
yes
yes
Tire pressure monitoring: 
yes
yes
More Safety Features: 
Emergency braking preparation
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Pre-collision safety system
2 Front Headrests
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Rear center 3-point belt
Rear height adjustable headrests
Turn signal mirrors
4-Wheel ABS
Airbag Deployment Notification
Stolen Vehicle Tracking/Assistance
Emergency Service
Brake Drying
3 Rear Headrests
Post-collision safety system
Airbag Deployment Notification*
BLIS Plus Inflatable Rear Seatbelt Package
Adaptive Cruise Control and Collision Warning w/Brake Support
Rear height adjustable headrests
Rear center 3-point belt
Passenger airbag occupant sensing deactivation
Remote anti-theft alarm system
Dual front with head protection chambers side-mounted airbags
Pre-Collision Safety System
Blind Spot And Lane Departure Warnings Accident Avoidance System
Turn signal mirrors

Options

Packages: 
Night Package
Premium 2 Package
Premium 3 Package
Accessory Chrome Package
Designo Espresso Brown Exclusive Nappa Leather Package
AMG Line Exterior
Designo Porcelain/Black Exclusive Nappa Leather Package
Parking Assist Package
Premium 1 Package
ACTIVE CURVE SYSTEM Package
AMG Line Interior
Equipment Group 600A
Exterior Options: 
MAGIC VISION CONTROL
Wheel Locks
Soft Close Doors
Illuminated Side Running Boards
Trailer Hitch
Illuminated Grille Star
Brushed Aluminum Running Boards w/Rubber Studs
20" AMG 5-Spoke W/Black Accents
Panorama Sunroof
20" AMG 5-Spoke Titanium Grey
Illuminated Side Running Boards
Laminated Windshield And Front Side Windows (SPC)
20" 5-Spoke Alloy Wheels
Roof Rack Crossbars
Running Boards
20" Premium Painted Machined Aluminum Wheels
Splash Guards
License Plate Bracket
Rear Bumper Protector
Wheel Lock Kit
Interior Options: 
Multi-Contour Front Seats w/Massage
Designo Porcelain DINAMICA Headliner
Designo Black DINAMICA Headliner
Heated Multifunction Steering Wheel
Rear Seat Entertainment Pre-Wiring
Bang & Olufsen Sound System
3-Zone Climate Control
Cargo Management System (SPC)
Rear Seat Entertainment
Heated Rear Seats
Cabin-air Purification System
Wood/Leather Steering Wheel
Ventilated Front Seats
Crystal Grey Headliner
Front Sport Seats
Porcelain Headliner
10-Way Power Passenger Seat (SPC)
Cargo Management System (SPC)
Rear Lockable Storage Compartment (SPC)
MB-TEX Wrapped Dashboard (SPC)
Harman/Kardon Sound System
Black Headliner
10-Way Power Passenger Seat (SPC)
2nd Row Bucket Seats w/Power-Assist Fold
Cargo Shade
Smokers Kit w/Element
Deep Tray-Style All-Weather Floor Mats
Rear Cargo Well Protector
DVD Headrests
2nd Row Console

Colors

Interior Colors: 
Color: 
Black Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#000000
Black w/Grey Stitching Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#070707
Espresso Brown/Black Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#5B5250
Porcelain/Black Exclusive Nappa, premium leather
#DAD3CF
Color: 
Medium Light Camel, cloth
#9A9789