2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Lexus NX was available in three versions: the NX 300, NX 300 F Sport, and the NX 300h hybrid. This comparison focused on the gasoline models, specifically the performance-oriented F Sport version. The NX retained the sharp design lines and familial styling attributes of Lexus, resembling both the smaller UX and larger RX models. Standard features included power-folding outside mirrors and 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added a sportier touch with a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels.

Inside, the F Sport models featured exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior color schemes. The material fit and finish were excellent, with a familiar gauge cluster design. However, the center stack showed its age with an outdated layout and limited small-item storage. Despite these quirks, the NX maintained a functional and attractive interior, though it lacked the modern digital displays found in some competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe, despite its SUV coupe design, managed to look stylish with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech appearance, complemented by ambient lighting for a more pleasurable driving experience.

The GLE Coupe's interior design masked its complexity with a facade of simplicity. While the lack of traditional controls could be confusing for newcomers, acclimation made the vehicle's technology easier to use. The GLE Coupe's interior was both sumptuous and high-tech, offering a blend of luxury and modernity.

The 2021 Lexus NX was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate but not as smooth as the newer eight-, nine-, or ten-speed transmissions. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in around seven seconds, which was average for its segment. The ride was relatively quiet, though the powertrain could get noisy under hard acceleration. The F Sport models featured Active Sound Control to enhance the engine note electronically.

Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available on all trims. The AWD system could transfer up to 50% of torque to the rear axle but lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 25 mpg combined, while the AWD model had similar numbers but a combined rating of 24 mpg. The NX had a 2,000-pound towing capacity and a top speed electronically limited to 124 mph. The adaptive-suspension system, based on the LC 500 sport coupe, provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though the steering was numb.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power and helped conserve fuel. The EPA estimated 19 mpg in combined driving, with our test vehicle achieving 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe had a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with fully variable torque distribution.

The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes maximized performance. The GLE Coupe's speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering made urban driving and parking easier. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension provided a comfortable ride, though the 22-inch wheels and low-profile tires were less forgiving on rough roads. The GLE Coupe felt nimble and composed, with impressive grip and braking performance in Sport+ mode.

The 2021 Lexus NX's interior was upscale and comfortable, with ample room for adults in both the front and second-row seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding configuration. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second-row seats and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded down. A power liftgate with kick sensor technology and power-folding rear seats were available options.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe could technically seat five people, but it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered, multi-contour front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Forward visibility was good, but rear visibility was challenging, necessitating the use of available cameras. The back seat provided ample legroom for adults, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded down. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated armrests, rapid-heating front seats, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch screen available as part of the Navigation package. The system included HomeLink, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Lexus Enform Destination Assist. The Lexus infotainment system was not user-friendly, with functions buried deep in menus and reliance on a touchpad. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, Bluetooth, a USB port, HD Radio, and a WiFi hotspot. Upgrades included a moonroof, heated steering wheel, and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. Wireless smartphone charging and a Burmester surround-sound audio system were also standard. MBUX was easy to use, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, a surround-view camera system, and an upgraded Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included a rearview camera, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, automatic high beams, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional features included park assist, a surround-view camera system, and adaptive headlights. The NX received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with no recalls reported. Lexus backed the NX with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system emitted a "pink noise" tone before a collision to protect hearing. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, with lane-keeping assistance and route-based speed adaptation functions. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.