Is the Lexus NX more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLE?

Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 68/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.

Which has more recalls, the Lexus NX or the Mercedes-Benz GLE?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE has more recalls (98) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.

Which has fewer owner complaints, the Lexus NX or the Mercedes-Benz GLE?

Adjusted for sales volume, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has a lower complaint rate at 0.6 per 10,000 sold versus 6.3 for the Lexus NX. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

Last updated: 2026-03-04

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Reliability Compared

More Reliable

Lexus NX

Good

Mercedes-Benz GLE

Good

Choosing between the Lexus NX and the Mercedes-Benz GLE? This page compares their reliability scores, NHTSA recall history, owner-reported complaints, and estimated annual repair costs so you can make a confident long-term ownership decision between these two compact suvs.

Our reliability scores are based on NHTSA recall and complaint data, independent repair cost estimates, and sales-normalized complaint rates. The Lexus NX currently leads with an average score of 78/100 compared to 68/100. Scroll down for the full year-by-year breakdown, common problem areas, and repair cost comparison.

How Do the Lexus NX and Mercedes-Benz GLE Generations Compare?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE is currently in its fourth generation, introduced in 2020, with a planned facelift in 2024. Being relatively early in its generation cycle, the GLE may experience typical first-year teething issues, although the upcoming facelift could address initial quirks. In contrast, the Lexus NX is in its second generation, launched in 2021. The NX is still early in its cycle, which might suggest potential early-generation reliability concerns. However, the previous generation's facelift in 2018 likely resolved many initial issues, hinting that Lexus may apply similar learnings to the new platform. Mature platforms, like the latter stages of the GLE's third generation, often benefit from refined reliability.

Verdict

The Lexus NX is more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLE, scoring 78/100 vs 68/100.

The Lexus NX demonstrates superior reliability compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE, with an average reliability score of 84/100 versus 59/100 for the GLE. The NX also has fewer recalls, totaling 47 over nine years, while the GLE has 98 over eight years. Additionally, the GLE has a higher owner complaint rate at 0.6 per 10,000 units sold, whereas the NX's complaints are not normalized but are fewer in total. Key issues for both models include electrical system problems, but the GLE also frequently faces engine and powertrain challenges, making the Lexus NX a more reliable choice overall.

Key Differences

1Lexus NX has 51 fewer total recalls
2Lexus NX scores 10 points higher in reliability
3Mercedes-Benz GLE has 5.7 fewer complaints per 10k sold

Category Scoreboard

2Lexus NX

—

1Mercedes-Benz GLE

Reliability ScoreTotal RecallsComplaint Rate

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Which Is More Reliable?

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE at-a-glance reliability comparison
Metric	Lexus NX	Mercedes-Benz GLE
Reliability Score	78/100	68/100
Years Tracked	9	8
Total Recalls	47	98
Complaints per 10k Sold	6.3	0.6
Year Wins	7	0

What Are the Common Problems With the Lexus NX and Mercedes-Benz GLE?

The Mercedes-Benz GLE exhibits a higher total number of complaints, with significant issues in the electrical system and engine categories, accounting for 76 and 50 complaints respectively. Notably, the GLE also reports a higher number of crash-linked complaints in power train and vehicle speed control areas. In contrast, the Lexus NX has fewer overall complaints, with the most significant issues found in the unknown or other category and the electrical system, but it shows a higher crash-linked complaint ratio in the service brakes category. Both models experience electrical system challenges, though the GLE's frequency and variety of issues suggest a broader reliability concern in this area.

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE common problem areas comparison
Component	Lexus NX	Mercedes-Benz GLE
UNKNOWN OR OTHER	0.5Very Low	—None
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM	0.4Very Low	0.1Very Low
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM	0.4Very Low	—None
FUEL SYSTEM	0.2Very Low	—None
SERVICE BRAKES	0.2Very Low	—None
STRUCTURE	0.2Very Low	—None
POWER TRAIN	0.1Very Low	0.1Very Low
VISIBILITY/WIPER	0.1Very Low	—None
VISIBILITY	0.1Very Low	—None
ENGINE	—None	0.1Very Low
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL	—None	—None
WHEELS	—None	—None
STEERING	—None	—None
AIR BAGS	—None	—None
TIRES	—None	—None
SUSPENSION	—None	—None
EXTERIOR LIGHTING	—None	—None
SEAT BELTS	—None	—None
FORWARD COLLISION AVOIDANCE	—None	—None
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING	—None	—None

Complaints per 10,000 units sold, aggregated across all tracked model years from NHTSA owner reports.

How Does Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE Reliability Compare by Year?

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE year-by-year reliability scores
Year	Lexus NX	Mercedes-Benz GLE	Edge
2024	77/10014R / 129C	70/1008R / 59C	Lexus NX
2023	77/10010R / 27C	70/1005R / 29C	Lexus NX
2022	75/10013R / 19C	68/10011R / 58C	Lexus NX
2021	82/1000R / 30C	65/10022R / 76C	Lexus NX
2020	82/1000R / 26C	61/10036R / 112C	Lexus NX
2019	77/1002R / 41C	70/1006R / 22C	Lexus NX
2018	79/1001R / 36C	69/1009R / 51C	Lexus NX
2026(predicted)	77/100(predicted)	69/100(predicted)	Lexus NX

Best years to cross-shop: The 2021 Lexus NX scored 82/100 and the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE scored 70/100 — these represent the strongest model years in our tracking range.

Who Should Buy the Lexus NX vs the Mercedes-Benz GLE?

If you prioritize reliability and peace of mind, the Lexus NX is the better choice with a higher reliability score of 84/100. It has experienced fewer recalls at 47, compared to the Mercedes-Benz GLE's 98, and offers lower owner complaints per 10,000 sold, indicating a more dependable ownership experience. The NX's top issues, including the electrical and fuel systems, are generally less severe than those affecting the GLE. On the other hand, if you are drawn to the luxury and performance of the Mercedes-Benz brand and are willing to accept higher maintenance risks, the GLE might appeal to you. However, be prepared for potential issues with the electrical system, engine, and power train. While independent repair cost estimates are unavailable, the GLE's overall reliability score of 59/100 suggests it may involve more frequent visits to the mechanic. For dependability and fewer headaches, the Lexus NX stands out as the superior option.

Lexus NX vs Mercedes-Benz GLE: Common Questions

Is the Lexus NX more reliable than the Mercedes-Benz GLE?: Based on our data, the Lexus NX is more reliable with an average score of 78/100 compared to 68/100. The difference is modest, so both are reasonable choices.
Which has more recalls, the Lexus NX or the Mercedes-Benz GLE?: The Mercedes-Benz GLE has more recalls (98) compared to the Lexus NX (47). More recalls don't always mean worse reliability — some are minor — but it's worth reviewing what each recall covers.
Which has fewer owner complaints, the Lexus NX or the Mercedes-Benz GLE?: Adjusted for sales volume, the Mercedes-Benz GLE has a lower complaint rate at 0.6 per 10,000 sold versus 6.3 for the Lexus NX. This per-sales normalization gives a fairer comparison than raw totals.

More Lexus NX comparisons

Lexus NX reliability by year Lexus NX years to avoid

More Mercedes-Benz GLE comparisons

Mercedes-Benz GLE vs BMW X5 reliability Mercedes-Benz GLE reliability by year Mercedes-Benz GLE years to avoid

How We Calculate Reliability Scores

Auto Reliability Index scores are calculated on a 0–100 scale using a weighted formula that combines multiple public data sources. Each factor is weighted based on its predictive value for real-world ownership experience.

Key Ranking Factors

Complaint Severity

NHTSA owner complaints weighted by component category (e.g., powertrain, safety systems, electronics, cosmetic) — safety-critical issues carry more weight than cosmetic ones. Adjusted for sales volume so high-volume models aren't unfairly penalized.

Repair Costs

Independent reliability ratings based on repair frequency, average repair costs, and severity of typical repairs for each model.

Recall Impact

Number of NHTSA recalls weighted by severity. “Stop driving” and fire-risk recalls are penalized more heavily than minor software or labeling recalls.

Issue Diversity

Measures how many major vehicle systems (engine, transmission, electrical, braking, etc.) have recorded complaints. A vehicle with issues spread across many systems may indicate systemic quality issues.

Scores are grouped into four tiers:

80–100: Excellent — Top-tier reliability, minimal issues
60–79: Good — Reliable with some minor concerns
40–59: Mixed — Notable issues, research before buying
0–39: Risky — Significant problems, proceed with caution

Data is sourced from NHTSA recall records, owner complaint filings, and independent repair databases. Scores are recalculated as new data becomes available. While the weighting model is proprietary, all underlying data sources are public and traceable.

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