VS

Mercedes GLE vs VW Grand California comparison

Compare performance (585 HP vs 163 HP), boot space and price (78,900 £ vs 70,200 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – Mercedes GLE or VW Grand California?

Mercedes GLE vs VW Grand California: Key differences

Mercedes GLE

4.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
  • clearly more power
  • clearly lighter
  • significantly more trunk space
details

VW Grand California

  • moderately cheaper
details

All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

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

GLE

Costs and Efficiency:

When it comes to price and running costs, the biggest differences usually appear. This is often where you see which car fits your budget better in the long run.

VW Grand California is moderately cheaper – starting at 70,200 £ , while the Mercedes GLE costs 78,900 £ . That’s a price difference of around 8,676 £.

Grand California

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the Mercedes GLE offers clearly more power – delivering 585 HP compared to 163 HP. That’s roughly 422 HP more horsepower.

GLE

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Seats: Mercedes GLE offers more seats – 5 vs 4.

In terms of curb weight, Mercedes GLE is clearly lighter – 2,390 kg compared to 3,052 kg. The difference is around 662 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Mercedes GLE offers significantly more boot space – 655 L compared to 0 L. That’s a difference of about 655 L.

When it comes to payload, the Mercedes GLE carries significantly more – 770 kg compared to 448 kg. That’s a difference of about 322 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Mercedes GLE is far ahead overall in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £78,900
GLE

Mercedes GLE

  • Engine Type Petrol MHEV, Plug-in Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
  • Transmission Automatic
  • Drive Type All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP 309 - 585 HP
  • Consumption L/100km 3.2 - 10.6 L/100km
  • Electric Range 91 - 104 km
details

Frequently compared as well

Mercedes GLB
Mercedes GLE
VS
In the competitive luxury SUV segment, the Mercedes GLB stands out with its compact dimensions and versatile interior, making it an ideal choice for urban drivers seeking practicality without sacrificing style. In contrast, the Mercedes GLE offers a more spacious cabin and robust performance, …
Mercedes GLE
Volvo XC90
VS
In the competitive luxury SUV segment, the Mercedes GLE and Volvo XC90 stand out for their distinctive qualities. The GLE impresses with its dynamic performance and cutting-edge technology, offering an engaging driving experience, while the XC90 enchants with its Scandinavian design and commitment …
Mercedes GLE
VW Grand California

Costs and Consumption
View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance
View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body
View detailed analysis

Mercedes GLE

The Mercedes GLE blends luxurious comfort with a confident road presence, wrapping tech and refinement in an SUV shape that still knows how to behave on a twisty back road. Inside it's plush and quiet, with clever storage and driver aids that make long trips effortless — plus the badge gives it that easy-to-respect curb appeal.

details
18C0625_033
18C0625_078
18C0625_137
18C0625_003

Reviews Mercedes GLE

4.7 (3 Reviews)
rate
Andreas
7 Jun 2026, 08:43:32

Mercedes is completely superior to Volvo, which feels plasticky and noisy with poor fit and finish, a poor tactile feel in the controls and a lack of buttons.

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Family car
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money
Victor
10 Apr 2026, 07:46:13

I just love Benz cars

How do you mainly use this car? (optional): Leisure / Weekend driver
Efficiency / Consumption & Range
Comfort & Interior
Driving Fun / Performance
Technology & Infotainment
Safety
Practicality / Trunk & Everyday Use
Value for Money

VW Grand California

The Grand California is Volkswagen's remarkable take on the camper van, blending practicality with comfort for the ultimate road trip experience. With ample space for both living and storage, it's designed for adventure seekers who don't want to compromise on amenities. Whether you're exploring coastal roads or setting up camp in the mountains, the Grand California offers a perfect home away from home.

details
serpimg_tVgkjD

Reviews VW Grand California

No reviews yet. Share your experience and help others decide.

Frequently compared as well

Mercedes GLE
Land Rover Defender
VS
Unsure whether the Mercedes GLE or the Land Rover Defender is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Mazda CX-60
Mercedes GLE
VS
Mazda CX-60 and Mercedes GLE go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
Mercedes E-Class Estate
Mercedes GLE
VS
Mercedes E-Class Estate and Mercedes GLE go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
Mercedes GLA
Mercedes GLE
VS
Mercedes GLA and Mercedes GLE go head-to-head: compare performance, space, features and price in one quick overview to see which model suits your daily driving, budget and lifestyle better. A clear, side-by-side look helps you make the smarter choice.
Mercedes GLC
Mercedes GLE
VS
Choosing between the Mercedes GLC and the Mercedes GLE is about whether you prefer compact agility and city-friendly efficiency or larger cabin space and long-distance comfort. This quick comparison will outline the main differences in size, performance, practicality and price to help you pick the …
Mercedes G-Class
Mercedes GLE
VS
Unsure whether the Mercedes G-Class or the Mercedes GLE is the better match? Compare both models directly and discover differences in power, efficiency, comfort and value for money — all summarized in one easy view to support your decision.
Mercedes GLE
Mercedes GLS
VS
In the realm of luxury SUVs, the Mercedes GLE and the larger Mercedes GLS offer elegance with their distinct features and capabilities. The GLE is renowned for its agile handling and impressive technology suite, making it ideal for those who seek a balanced blend of performance and comfort. …
Mercedes GLE
Porsche Cayenne
VS
In the battle of luxury SUVs, the Mercedes GLE stands out with its plush interior and advanced technology, making it an exceptional choice for those who prioritize comfort and features. On the other hand, the Porsche Cayenne delivers a sportier driving experience with its responsive handling and …
Mercedes GLE
VW Grand California

Costs and Consumption
Price
78,900 - 115,800 £
Price
70,200 - 77,900 £
Consumption L/100km
3.2 - 10.6 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
91 - 104 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
72 - 241 g/km
co2
-
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
75 L

Dimensions and Body
Body Type
SUV
Body Type
Bus
Seats
5
Seats
4
Doors
-
Doors
4
Curb weight
2,390 - 2,815 kg
Curb weight
3,052 - 3,354 kg
Trunk capacity
485 - 655 L
Trunk capacity
0 L
Length
-
Length
5,986 - 6,836 mm
Width
2,010 - 2,018 mm
Width
2,040 mm
Height
-
Height
2,839 - 2,971 mm
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
495 - 770 kg
Payload
146 - 448 kg

Engine and Performance
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Plug-in Hybrid, Diesel MHEV
Engine Type
Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Drive Type
All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
309 - 585 HP
Power HP
163 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.5 - 6.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
-
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
560 - 750 Nm
Torque
-
Number of Cylinders
6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
227 - 430 kW
Power kW
120 kW
Engine capacity
2,989 - 2,999 cm3
Engine capacity
1,968 cm3

General
Model Year
2026
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
-
Brand
Mercedes-Benz
Brand
VW
What drive types are available for the Mercedes GLE?

The Mercedes GLE is offered with All-Wheel Drive.

DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.