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Ford Kuga vs Mercedes GLE – Which model is better for everyday use?

Both models have their strengths – but which one suits you more?
Compare performance, efficiency, price and space directly: Ford Kuga or Mercedes GLE?

Kuga @ kuga.fordpresskits.com

Ford Kuga Vs. Mercedes GLE: A Clash of SUVs Titans

The SUV segment is ever-growing, and two models that have piqued the interest of automotive enthusiasts in 2024 are the Ford Kuga and the Mercedes-Benz GLE. Each of these vehicles embodies different philosophies when it comes to engineering, luxury, and performance. Let's dive into the technicalities and innovations that each vehicle brings to the table.

GLE @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

Engine and Transmission Options

The Ford Kuga offers versatility with its engine options, including petrol, full hybrid, and plugin hybrid choices. The power output ranges from 150 HP to 243 HP, accommodating both efficiency and performance preferences. The Kuga comes with a manual gearbox or a CVT, and it provides both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options.

Conversely, the Mercedes GLE primarily focuses on engine performance with its diesel, petrol, and plugin hybrid MHEV options. Its power ranges from 289 HP to an impressive 634 HP, offering a wealth of variety for those craving more power under the hood. The GLE is exclusively equipped with an automatic gearbox, paired with an all-wheel drive system for superior traction and handling.

Kuga @ kuga.fordpresskits.com

Performance and Efficiency

Both SUVs promise remarkable performance, but they cater to different needs when it comes to efficiency and speed. The Ford Kuga offers an average consumption as low as 0.9 L/100 km in its plugin hybrid variant, along with a noteworthy electric range up to 69 km.

The Mercedes GLE also shines with its plugin hybrid models offering an even more extensive electric range up to 114 km with consumption figures reaching as low as 0.5 L/100 km. However, the GLE models geared towards performance deliver maximum speeds up to 280 km/h and accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 3.9 seconds.

GLE @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

Dimensions and Practicality

Practicality often influences the buying decision in the SUV segment. The Ford Kuga is compact with a length of up to 4645 mm, making it suitable for urban environments. It has a trunk capacity of 412 liters, catering to everyday needs for a family of five.

On the other hand, the Mercedes GLE is more tailored to accommodate space with length variations around 4961 mm and a significantly larger trunk capacity up to 655 liters. The extra space proves beneficial for long family trips or outdoor adventures.

Kuga @ kuga.fordpresskits.com

Innovations and Features

Technological advancements in both models provide enhanced driving experiences. The Ford Kuga integrates efficient drivetrain technologies, ideal for eco-conscious drivers, with CO2 emissions as low as 20 g/km in hybrid versions.

The Mercedes GLE ups the ante by incorporating cutting-edge features tailored for luxury and performance. GLE's impressive CO2 emission figures, as low as 16 g/km in its greenest model, ensure environmentally friendly drives without sacrificing luxury or technology.

GLE @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

Conclusion

Choosing between the Ford Kuga and Mercedes GLE depends on one's needs for performance, efficiency, and practicality. The Ford Kuga presents an appealing option with its range of efficient engines and urban-friendly dimensions. Conversely, the Mercedes GLE stands out with superior power outputs, luxury amenities, and vast interior space, making it the choice for those seeking top-tier luxury and performance.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

Ford Kuga has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 34200 £, while the Mercedes GLE costs 76300 £. That’s a price difference of around 42028 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Mercedes GLE manages with 2 L and is therefore clearly perceptible more efficient than the Ford Kuga with 2.80 L. The difference is about 0.80 L per 100 km.

As for range, the Mercedes GLE performs clearly better – achieving up to 114 km, about 46 km more than the Ford Kuga.

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLE has a clearly edge – offering 634 HP compared to 243 HP. That’s roughly 391 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Mercedes GLE is clearly quicker – completing the sprint in 3.90 s, while the Ford Kuga takes 7.30 s. That’s about 3.40 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the Mercedes GLE performs clearly perceptible better – reaching 280 km/h, while the Ford Kuga tops out at 200 km/h. The difference is around 80 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: Mercedes GLE pulls decisively stronger with 850 Nm compared to 240 Nm. That’s about 610 Nm difference.

Space and Everyday Use:

Whether family car or daily driver – which one offers more room, flexibility and comfort?

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, Ford Kuga is clearly lighter – 1526 kg compared to 2310 kg. The difference is around 784 kg.

In terms of boot space, the Mercedes GLE offers noticeable more room – 655 L compared to 412 L. That’s a difference of about 243 L.

In maximum load capacity, the Mercedes GLE performs evident better – up to 2055 L, which is about 521 L more than the Ford Kuga.

When it comes to payload, Mercedes GLE evident takes the win – 705 kg compared to 550 kg. That’s a difference of about 155 kg.

Who comes out on top?

Overall, the Mercedes GLE shows itself to be is largely superior and secures the title of DriveDuel Champion.
It convinces with the more balanced overall package and proves to be the more versatile choice for everyday use.

from about £76,300
18C0625_033

Mercedes GLE

  • Engine Type : Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 289 - 634 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2 - 12.5 L
  • Electric Range : 89 - 114 km
details

Ford Kuga

3.5 (2)
rate

The Ford Kuga stands out in the realm of compact SUVs with its sleek design and dynamic performance capabilities. Its spacious interior is thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and practicality for both driver and passengers, making it an ideal choice for families and adventurers alike. Advanced technology and safety features further enhance the driving experience, ensuring a seamless blend of innovation and reliability on the road.

details
ford-kuga-black-edition_exteriores_vignale_14sept2022_0085-LOW @ kuga.fordpresskits.com
ford-kuga-black-edition_exteriores_vignale_14sept2022_0238-LOW @ kuga.fordpresskits.com
FORD_KUGA_ST-LINE_PHEV_024-LOW @ kuga.fordpresskits.com

Mercedes GLE

The Mercedes-Benz GLE sets a benchmark for luxury SUVs with its sophisticated blend of cutting-edge technology and elegant design. Its spacious interior is meticulously crafted, providing both comfort and style for all passengers. On the road, the GLE delivers a smooth and powerful driving experience, enhanced by its advanced safety features and intuitive handling.

details
18C0625_033 @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com
18C0625_078 @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com
18C0625_137 @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com
18C0625_003 @ group-media.mercedes-benz.com

Similar Comparisons

Ford Kuga
Volvo XC40
VS
The Ford Kuga is the zippier, more practical pick — roomy, better value and a bit more fun to drive — while the Volvo XC40 trades that scrappiness for a quieter, upmarket cabin, class-leading safety tech and unmistakable Scandinavian polish. If you want driving engagement and bang for your buck go Kuga; if you prefer a calmer, premium feel and a car that looks after you like a very fashionable safety blanket, choose the XC40.
Ford Focus
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In this head-to-head comparison, the Ford Focus impresses with its agile handling and fuel efficiency, making it an ideal choice for urban commuters. Meanwhile, the Ford Kuga offers a spacious interior and versatile cargo space, appealing to families and adventure seekers alike. Both models showcase Ford's commitment to performance and technology, but the decision ultimately hinges on individual lifestyle needs.
Ford Kuga
Mercedes GLE
Kuga
GLE

Costs and Consumption
Price
34200 - 46300 £
Price
76300 - 175800 £
Consumption L/100km
2.8 - 6.8 L
Consumption L/100km
2 - 12.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
68 km
Electric Range
89 - 114 km
Battery Capacity
1.1 - 14.4 kWh
Battery Capacity
24.8 - 25 kWh
co2
55 - 154 g/km
co2
53 - 284 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
42 - 54 L
Fuel tank capacity
65 - 85 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1526 - 1859 kg
Curb weight
2310 - 2800 kg
Trunk capacity
412 L
Trunk capacity
490 - 655 L
Length
4604 - 4645 mm
Length
4924 - 4961 mm
Width
1882 mm
Width
1947 mm
Height
1673 - 1681 mm
Height
1716 - 1797 mm
Max trunk capacity
1534 L
Max trunk capacity
1645 - 2055 L
Payload
541 - 550 kg
Payload
460 - 705 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol, Full Hybrid, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, CVT, Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 243 HP
Power HP
289 - 634 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
7.3 - 9.9 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.9 - 6.9 s
Max Speed
195 - 200 km/h
Max Speed
210 - 280 km/h
Torque
240 Nm
Torque
500 - 850 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Number of Cylinders
4 - 8
Power kW
111 - 178 kW
Power kW
213 - 466 kW
Engine capacity
1496 - 2488 cm3
Engine capacity
1993 - 3982 cm3

General
Model Year
2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
E, D, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B, F
Brand
Ford
Brand
Mercedes-Benz

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What drivetrain options does the Ford Kuga have?

The Ford Kuga is available as Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.