2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover had evolved significantly from its rugged origins, transforming into a symbol of luxury and sophistication. Once a utilitarian vehicle, it now boasted a starting price of $92,000, with the potential to exceed $250,000 when fully equipped with premium options like a $23,500 paint job and $5,850 tailgate event seating. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design, with hallmark features such as blacked-out windshield and roof pillars, and a clean, tapering silhouette. Inside, the cabin exuded luxury with its Ivory-color interior and mid-century modern ambiance, although the InControl Touch Pro Duo infotainment system was less intuitive than newer models.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe presented a modern and athletic design, with Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe, priced from $77,800, offered a high-tech interior with dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment, premium Nappa leather, and ambient lighting. While the exterior design might have reminded some of an athletic sneaker, the interior was a blend of luxury and technology, though the lack of traditional controls could be challenging for newcomers. The GLE Coupe's interior was both sumptuous and functional, with a focus on comfort and high-end materials.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover offered a variety of powertrains, including a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine in the HSE Westminster edition, delivering 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its off-road capabilities. The adaptive air suspension provided a smooth ride, although the steering was slow and the vehicle's weight and height led to some body roll. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 20 mpg, but the test vehicle averaged 18.5 mpg.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. It featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the AMG Active Ride Control suspension provided a nimble and composed ride. The GLE Coupe's fuel economy was similar to the Range Rover, with an EPA estimate of 19 mpg combined and a test result of 18.5 mpg. The vehicle excelled in performance, especially in Sport+ mode, where it demonstrated impressive grip and braking capabilities.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's air suspension included a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers still found entry challenging. The front seats were comfortable and luxurious, but the second row lacked support and adjustability. Storage space was limited, with a small refrigerated center console bin and a maximum cargo capacity of 59.8 cubic feet. The clamshell-style tailgate and suspension kneel function aided in loading cargo.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats were sport-bolstered and multi-contour, with numerous adjustments and comfort features. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe included various comfort upgrades, such as a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover featured a digital instrumentation and infotainment system with three displays, though the InControl Touch Pro Duo system was not entirely intuitive. The system required setup to avoid distractions while driving, and the head-up display was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Range Rover also offered a waterproof Activity Key wristband and an iGuide smartphone app for assistance.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens and a range of connectivity options. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, and an upgraded Burmester sound system. The touchpad on the center console was a minor inconvenience, but overall, the technology was advanced and easy to use.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover included standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system. The HSE Westminster Edition included several safety packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond in certain situations.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though the route-based speed adaptation function could be irritating. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings.