GLC vs. GLE: which Mercedes SUV is better?
Not sure whether to buy the Mercedes GLC or GLE? Read our comparison guide below to see which is better for you
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Mercedes GLC vs. GLE is a tough choice – these are two SUVs that are worth shouting about.
If you’ve got the luxury of picking between the two, looking at details like the engines, tech, interior and style will help you find your Goldilocks car.
Although they’re siblings in the family of Merc SUVs, there are still things that set them apart.
Keep reading to get the details on GLC vs. GLE in our comparison review.
GLC vs. GLE
Our guide will answer:
Which Mercedes SUV has the better styling?
Is the GLC or GLE better to drive?
Does the GLC or GLE have better tech?
Is the GLC or GLE more reliable?
What are the GLC vs. GLE dimensions?
GLC vs. GLE: styling
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Line ‘em up side-by-side and you’d be forgiven for initially thinking they’re exactly the same. Both the GLE and GLC are chunky and stylish.
Look closer and you’ll see they’re siblings, not twins, and the GLE is slightly longer and has a different front-end shape.
They both offer different grilles – a stacked–up version with more detail on the GLE, and something a bit subtler on the GLC.
The GLE can also be had as a seven-seater, adding two extra seats in the rear, but it still doesn’t look bulky or oversized.
GLC vs. GLE: what are they like to drive?
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Prestige is where Mercedes SUVs excel and the GLE and GLC both fit that bill on the road.
They both offer a similar feeling drive. You’ll notice light and responsive steering, a smooth feel, and a spritely drive that's reminiscent of smaller cars.
All GLE models get some sort of hybrid assistance, with the mild-hybrid pick being a 381hp GLE 450 4Matic that can hit 0-62mph in just 5.6 seconds.
The GLC is similar, with the mild-hybrid 300 4Matic on offer that’ll give you 0-62mph in 6.2 seconds.
GLC vs. GLE: interior and technology
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The latest GLC is the fresher face so does feel more modern inside, with a massive portrait touchscreen and additional screen behind the wheel. There are more screens than there are buttons, and it feels very luxe.
As for the latest GLE, there’s a stretched screen across the dash that offers infotainment and vehicle stats. It looks more classic, compared to the futuristic GLC, and you can control it with touch, voice and gestures.
Both models are incredibly plush and live up to the premium Mercedes brand, with plenty of trims and options to ramp up the splendor.
GLC vs. GLE: boot space and practicality
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The GLE has a very impressive boot – it's a 630-litre space that can extend to 2,055 litres with the seats folded. That’s larger than rivals like the Audi Q7.
Plug-in hybrid variations of the GLE get a smaller 490-litre boot that’s still plenty practical for most motorists.
The GLC isn’t far behind, with a 620-litre boot (1,680 litres with the seats flat) for petrol and diesel models. Plug-in hybrid models scale down to a 400 litres, and you can flatten all the seats to enjoy 1,640 litres of space.
The GLE also gets that option seven seat upgrade, which does eat into boot space, but is ideal for a very premium family car or if you carry more passengers often.
GLC vs. GLE: safety and reliability
Good news – both the GLE and GLC get a full five-star Euro NCAP rating. The GLC gets a 92% adult rating and a 90% child score, while the GLC gets 91% and 90% respectively.
Reliable engineering is what you get with Mercedes, and we’ll guess that’s exactly what you want from your car. Both models earn high praise on reliability surveys, and the forums say good things.
Standard safety kit in the GLE includes blind spot warning, a built-in dashcam, and lane keep assist.
The GLC gets blind spot assist as well, plus a 360-degree camera.
GLC vs. GLE: dimensions
Mercedes GLC
Length: 4,924mm
Height: 1,722mm
Width: 1,947mm
GLC boot: 490 to 630 litres
Mercedes GLE
Length: 4,655mm
Height: 1,644mm
Width: 1,890mm
GLE boot: 400 to 620 litres
Verdict: GLC vs. GLE: which should you buy?
When it comes to the Mercedes GLC vs. GLE – your choice will be based on your needs.
The GLE is ideal for larger families, as there’s the option for seven seats and a massive boot. The interior is plush as well, with plenty of tech to keep you occupied.
You might prefer the GLC if you like a massively modern feel and plenty of screens. It’s still spacious, like the GLE, but only comes as a five-seater.
Take a look at our full range of used GLC and used GLE cars for sale to find one that suits you.