2020 Toyota RAV4 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Toyota RAV4, following its 2019 redesign, presented a bolder and more angular appearance, enhancing its reputation for durability with a tougher look. The Adventure trim from the previous year improved off-roading capabilities with a torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system and multiple driving modes. The 2020 model introduced the TRD Off-Road trim, which further elevated its off-road prowess with smaller, lighter wheels, all-terrain tires, and a TRD suspension setup. The TRD Off-Road was distinguishable by its unique wheels, tires, and badges, while maintaining the overall look of the Adventure trim. Inside, the TRD Off-Road featured TRD logos, rubber floor mats, and a mix of quality materials, contrasting with some inexpensive-looking plastics.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, despite some styling criticisms, offered a refined interior and a redesigned GLE Coupe. The interior was a masterpiece of quality, layout, and textures, with a striking red and black color scheme. The GLE's interior featured twin arching grab handles, LED lighting, and a mix of materials like wood, metal, and leather. The vehicle's controls, including the gear selector and turn signal stalks, were generally well-received, though some were considered flimsy. The GLE exuded a sense of luxury and pampering, comparable to high-end competitors, though its exterior design did not garner universal praise.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 was equipped with a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The RAV4 Hybrid variant offered 219 horsepower and impressive fuel efficiency, though it was not available with the TRD Off-Road trim. The non-turbo, non-hybrid powertrain provided adequate performance, especially in Sport mode, though a turbocharged engine would have been preferable for high-altitude driving. The 8-speed automatic transmission generally performed well, though it occasionally struggled with gear selection. The TRD Off-Road model featured a torque-vectoring AWD system, multi-terrain select settings, and 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable off-road. The RAV4 averaged 23.4 mpg, slightly below the EPA estimate of 27 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled with its complex suspension and engine setup. The GLE 350 used a coil-sprung setup, while the GLE 450 featured AIRMATIC air springs with adaptive dampers. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control offered advanced handling capabilities. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe had an electric supercharger for instant throttle response, though it wasn't as thrilling as expected. The GLE's hybrid system provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality. Fuel efficiency varied across models, with the GLE 450 achieving 21/26/23 mpg. The GLE 350 had 255 hp, the GLE 450 had 362 hp, and the AMG GLE 53 reached 429 hp. The GLE 580 and GLE 63 S offered even more power. The GLE's driving experience was exceptional, with impressive towing capacity and ride quality.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 offered easy entry and exit, with a low and sporty driving position in the 8-way adjustable driver's seat. The SofTex upholstery was known for trapping sweat, but the Weather Package added heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat provided ample legroom for adults and children, with air conditioning vents and USB ports. Interior storage was generous, with a dashboard shelf and cargo space of 37.6 cubic feet, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet. The test vehicle included a robust roof rack and an optional hands-free power liftgate.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a roomy two-row SUV, with an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second-row seats had power controls for recline and fore-aft adjustments. Cargo capacity was 34 cubic feet behind the second row, expandable to 75 cubic feet. The Coupe variant offered less space, with 23 and 61 cubic feet, respectively. The sloping roofline and large rear tires limited rear passenger space and door openings. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability, with a single touchpad and simplified interface. Seat controls and rocker switches were user-friendly, though the thumbpads on the steering wheel were less intuitive.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 featured a user-friendly infotainment system with a 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot was available with a free trial. The system had menu shortcut buttons and separate climate controls. Upgrades included navigation and a JBL premium sound system. The TRD Off-Road's voice-recognition technology was impressive, and the optional Technology Package added wireless charging, a 360-degree camera, and a digital rear-view mirror.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE's 12-inch touchscreen display featured Interior Assistant for gesture control. The system was easier to use with a touchpad and thumbpad, with search bars and larger type for navigation. The AMG models included a Track Pace app for racing enthusiasts. The GLE offered features like Seat Kinetics, perfume canisters, and Energizing Comfort. The head-up display and instrument panel were customizable, with sharp displays and ambient lighting. The navigation system projected camera feeds with overlays for directions. The GLE included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a natural voice assistant. Semi-automated functionality and numerous electronic features were available.

The 2020 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, including features like Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, radar adaptive cruise control, lane departure alert, and blind spot assist. The systems operated smoothly and encouraged drivers to keep them active. Toyota offered a free 1-year subscription to Safety Connect services. The RAV4 received a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, with top marks for crash protection and ADAS performance, though headlight performance varied.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and standard forward emergency braking. The GLE included blind-spot monitoring and a driver attention monitor. Optional features included adaptive cruise, lane-keeping, evasive steering assist, and semi-automated control. Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side were available for enhanced safety. The GLE's brakes and stability control offered additional safety measures.