2020 Acura MDX vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Acura MDX was an attractive crossover SUV that, while not breaking any new ground, managed to fit into almost any environment without drawing undue attention. The styling was neither revolutionary nor breathtaking, but it maintained a balanced demeanor that neither screamed for attention nor shamed its driver. Acura's signature Jewel Eye LED headlights provided both function and a rich look, featuring five LED elements per side—flanking the trapezoidal grille anchored by a prominent Acura logo. Despite its three-row design, the MDX was sleek and low-slung with chiseled details and an impressive fast roofline. The combination of flawless paint and chrome trims bolstered its modern aesthetic. Inside, the MDX's interior continued this modern simplicity with a focus on practicality rather than ostentatious flourishes. Twin infotainment screens—a high-mounted 8.0-inch LED screen for navigation and an On Demand Multi-Use Display touchscreen—were centerpieces of the dashboard. High-quality materials and superior fit and finish complemented this design, ensuring the vehicle felt robust and well-built. Conversely, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class struggled to impress visually, especially when compared to its rivals. Despite its aggressive nose and sloping hood, the design seemed to taper off disappointingly beyond the A-pillar, reminiscent of older models. The GLE Coupe attempted to convey sportiness but failed to match the stylings of competitors like the BMW X5 M or Porsche Cayenne Turbo. Despite its underwhelming exterior, Mercedes excelled in interior design. The GLE's interior was a masterpiece featuring a red and black color scheme paired with high-quality materials, including wood, metal, leather, and suede. Twin arching grab handles on the center console outlined with LED lighting showcased the vehicle's luxurious intent.

The 2020 Acura MDX delivered versatile performance with two engine options. A 3.5-liter V6 engine produced 290 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission available in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Alternatively, the MDX Sport Hybrid combined a 3.0-liter V6 gasoline engine with three electric motors, yielding a combined 321 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, managed by a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system offered an engaging driving experience, enhancing the vehicle's nimbleness via torque vectoring. This subtleness in power distribution made cornering and sharp turns more seamless and secure. Meanwhile, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class set a high bar for performance with its technologically advanced air suspension and diverse engine lineup. The base GLE 350 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque, while the GLE 450 offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet. Moving up the range, the AMG GLE 53 achieved 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet with the help of an electric supercharger, while the GLE 580 boasted a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 producing 483 horsepower and 516 pound-feet. The apex GLE 63 S dominated with 603 horsepower and 627 pound-feet. Notably, all models except the base GLE 350 featured 4Matic all-wheel drive, ensuring impressive traction and control. The advanced hybrid setup, featuring a 48-volt electrical system, allowed for remarkable efficiency in energy management, although fuel economy remained similar to competitors.

The 2020 Acura MDX provided excellent functionality for families. With three-row seating, it could accommodate multiple passengers comfortably. The second-row seats could slide and recline, facilitating easier access to the third row. The MDX offered 15.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 43.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and a substantial 90.9 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. Additional storage solutions included a large glove box, overhead sunglass pocket, flexible center console, and ample door panel pockets, making it highly functional for daily use. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class, predominantly a two-row SUV with an optional third row, offered power-adjustable second-row seats for enhanced comfort. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easier access to the third row, albeit the GLE Coupe only accommodated five passengers. Cargo capacity behind the second row was 34 cubic feet, increasing to 75 cubic feet with all rows folded, whereas the Coupe variant was limited with 23 and 61 cubic feet respectively. Though the Coupe's design imposed constraints on rear passenger space and egress, the SUV configuration provided substantial room and flexibility. The usability was further enhanced by the new MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and improved functionality.

The 2020 Acura MDX came equipped with a generous array of technology features organized into comprehensive packages. The base model included essentials like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Siri Eyes Free, a CD/MP3 player, and an eight-speaker audio system. For additional tech features, the Technology Package offered amenities such as rain-sensing wipers, navigation, GPS-linked climate control, and a 10-speaker Acura/ELS Studio Premium Audio system. The Advance Package further added a surround-view camera, heated and ventilated seats, and an Active Damper System. The Entertainment Package, when combined with the Technology or Advance Packages, introduced a DVD rear entertainment system with either a 9.0-inch or 16.2-inch screen. In comparison, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class was a technological tour de force. Its main 12-inch touchscreen featured the Interior Assistant, capable of reading hand gestures and personalizing shortcuts. The system also offered a Track Pace app for AMG models, multiple seat adjustments, and a configurable head-up display. Additional luxuries included perfume canisters, heated armrests, ambient lighting with 64 colors, and semi-automated driving functionalities. The new MBUX interface simplified usability with a touchpad and larger, more intuitive icons.

The 2020 Acura MDX came standard with AcuraWatch, encompassing features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and automatic emergency braking. Additional safety enhancements included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert in the Technology Package, and Head-Up Warning in the Advance Package. Standard safety equipment also included multiple airbags, stability control, and a sophisticated body design to absorb and redirect impact forces. The MDX earned high safety ratings, with IIHS awarding it top marks in most categories and NHTSA giving it a five-star overall safety rating. The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class was equally impressive in terms of safety. It earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award for its superior crash test performance, effective headlights, and excellent forward emergency braking. Blind-spot monitoring and a driver attention monitor were standard, with a plethora of advanced features available as options. These included adaptive cruise control, evasive steering assist, and semi-automated control capable of stopping the car in emergencies. Mercedes' unique Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems further enhanced occupant protection by deploying noise-cancelling tones and side bolster inflations to prepare the body for impact.