Mercedes-Benz GLE450 vs Nissan Leaf
Head-to-head specifications
| Metric | Mercedes-Benz GLE450 | Nissan Leaf | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Max power (hp) | 362 | 214 | +69.2% |
| Max torque (Nm) | 500 | 339 | +47.5% |
| NCAP safety | 5★ (NHTSA) | 5★ (NHTSA) | — |
| Fuel type | Petrol | Electric | — |
| Transmission | 9-Speed Shiftable Automatic | 1-Speed Automatic | — |
| Price (USD est.) | $61,700 | $36,900 | +67.2% |
- Mercedes-Benz GLE450 makes about 69% more power (362 vs 214 hp).
- Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Verdict: GLE450 or Leaf?
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 advantages
- Engine power (+41%)
- Pulling torque (+32%)
Nissan Leaf advantages
- Affordability (+40%)
Which should you choose?
- Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence.
- Choose the Nissan Leaf if you want the lower upfront cost.
- Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 if you tow, carry loads or drive hilly roads.
Value for money
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 vs Nissan Leaf: which should you choose?
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 (2020 4MATIC) — petrol suv with 362 hp and 500 Nm, rated at 8.9 km/L, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $61,700 in the US market.
Nissan Leaf (2026 SV Plus) — electric hatchback with 214 hp and 339 Nm, rated at 20.1 kWh/100km, 5-star NHTSA safety; priced near $36,900 in the US market.
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 vs Nissan Leaf: Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is more powerful. Mercedes-Benz GLE450 makes about 69% more power (362 vs 214 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Performance
The Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is the more powerful, at 362 hp against 214 hp, with 500 Nm of torque on tap. Its petrol drivetrain pairs with a 9-speed shiftable automatic transmission.
Running costs
These cars use different energy types (Petrol vs Electric), so compare cost per kilometre at your local fuel and electricity prices rather than a single economy number.
Safety
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 is rated 5 stars by NHTSA and Nissan Leaf 5 stars by NHTSA. Different NCAP programmes use different protocols, so same-programme comparisons are the most reliable.
Price and value
The Nissan Leaf lists lower at about $36,900 (USD-converted from the US market). Factor in insurance, fuel or charging, taxes and resale — not just the sticker price.
The verdict
Both are credible choices in the car comparison space; the specification table above lays out every metric so you can weigh the trade-offs that matter to you. Pick the one whose strengths line up with how you will actually use it.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 better than the Nissan Leaf?
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 takes the overall edge, though Nissan Leaf wins in specific areas worth weighing. Mercedes-Benz GLE450 makes about 69% more power (362 vs 214 hp).
What is the main difference between the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 and the Nissan Leaf?
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 makes about 69% more power (362 vs 214 hp). Their economy figures use different measures (Petrol vs Electric), so compare running costs in your local fuel and electricity prices rather than head-to-head.
Which is better value?
Mercedes-Benz GLE450 delivers more horsepower per dollar, making it the better value of the two at their listed prices.
Which should I choose?
Choose the Mercedes-Benz GLE450 if you want stronger performance and overtaking confidence. Choose the Nissan Leaf if you want the lower upfront cost.
Methodology
Cars are compared on manufacturer-rated maximum power and torque, certified fuel economy (km/L, converted from each market's test cycle: EPA, WLTP, CLTC, JC08/WLTC, ARAI) or EV energy use (kWh/100km), official NCAP crash-test ratings from the model's home-market programme, and list prices converted to USD at recent exchange rates. Each model shows its newest listed year and its highest-priority market trim. Test cycles differ between regions, so cross-market economy figures are directional rather than exact; prices exclude local taxes and incentives.