The summer sun was casting its golden glow over the highway as I approached the meeting point for what promised to be an exhilarating day. The lineup for today’s comparison was impressive: the 2024 Mazda CX-90, the BMW X5, and the Mercedes GLE, each with its unique character and charm. But this wasn’t just any ordinary test; there was a surprise contender lurking in the background, ready to shake things up.
I’d been eagerly anticipating this day, and the sight of these three luxury SUVs lined up in a row made the anticipation even more tangible. The Mazda CX-90, sleek and modern with its refined lines and a powerful stance, looked every bit the contender I had hoped for. The BMW X5, with its muscular build and sporty allure, stood confidently beside it. And then there was the Mercedes GLE, embodying sophistication with its elegant curves and commanding presence.
I began by taking a closer look at each vehicle. The Mazda CX-90 was a recent addition to Mazda’s lineup, and its design was both futuristic and practical. With a turbocharged inline-six engine under the hood, it promised an engaging drive. The BMW X5, a staple in the luxury SUV market, was equipped with a robust V8 engine in this particular model, signaling that it was ready for some serious performance testing. The Mercedes GLE, known for its luxurious features and smooth ride, was powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine, making it a strong contender in this comparison.
Our test was divided into two parts: a drag race and a roll race. The drag race would test pure acceleration from a standstill, while the roll race would assess how these SUVs perform from a rolling start. But as I was getting ready, I noticed a sleek, aggressive-looking vehicle parked a little further down the lot. It turned out to be the surprise contender – the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, a high-performance SUV known for its Italian flair and roaring engine. This unexpected addition promised to add an exciting twist to our comparison.
We started with the drag race. The Mazda CX-90, despite its impressive specs, seemed to lag slightly at the start compared to the BMW X5 and Mercedes GLE. The BMW, with its V8 engine, roared off the line with an authoritative growl, quickly establishing its dominance. The GLE, though not as fast off the line as the X5, displayed a smooth, powerful acceleration that left little doubt about its performance capabilities. However, it was the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio that stole the show. From the moment the race began, its turbocharged V6 engine propelled it forward with a ferocity that left the other vehicles in the dust.
Next came the roll race. This test would be less about raw power and more about how well each SUV could handle sustained speed and agility. The Mazda CX-90 showed its true colors here, with its balanced handling and smooth acceleration proving that it was not just about brute force. The BMW X5, while still impressive, had a tendency to push the limits of traction, making it a bit less predictable at high speeds. The Mercedes GLE, with its refined suspension and steady acceleration, performed admirably, maintaining a strong and consistent pace.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, again, made its mark. It’s handling was remarkably agile for an SUV, and its acceleration was seamless. Its Italian engineering was evident in every curve and maneuver, making it a joy to drive in a way that set it apart from the more conventional luxury SUVs.
As we concluded our testing, it became clear that each vehicle had its strengths. The Mazda CX-90 offered a compelling mix of design, performance, and practicality. The BMW X5 was a powerhouse, delivering exhilarating acceleration and sporty handling. The Mercedes GLE excelled in luxury and smoothness, providing a comfortable yet powerful ride. And the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, while not part of the original lineup, emerged as a surprise champion in the performance stakes, proving that even within the world of luxury SUVs, there is always room for a wildcard.
Driving these vehicles had been a thrill, and each offered a unique driving experience. Whether it was the sheer power of the BMW X5, the sophisticated luxury of the Mercedes GLE, the balanced performance of the Mazda CX-90, or the spirited agility of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, it was evident that the choice would come down to personal preference and specific needs. Each SUV had its own personality, and each drove differently, highlighting the diverse options available in the luxury SUV market.
As I drove off into the sunset, the day’s excitement and the roar of the engines still fresh in my mind, I couldn’t help but reflect on how each vehicle had impressed in its own way. The competition had been fierce, and the surprise contender had added an unexpected layer of excitement. It was a day that showcased not just the performance capabilities of these SUVs, but also the passion and innovation driving the automotive industry forward.