2021 Lexus RX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design that epitomized Lexus' styling philosophy. With its large grille, angular headlamps, shapely body, and floating roof, the RX offered a blend of luxury and sportiness. Inside, the RX exuded comfort with plush seating and perforated leather upholstery. However, the center console design was criticized for its dated appearance, using traditional charcoal plastic instead of more modern materials.

Lexus offered the RX in five variants: RX, RX F Sport, RXL, RX Hybrid, and RXL Hybrid, catering to different needs—from base models to performance-focused and extended-body options. Standard exterior features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, various LED lights, and rear privacy glass. Optional upgrades consisted of larger wheels, advanced lighting systems, and specific F Sport enhancements such as performance dampers and unique styling elements.

The interior was equally lavish, even at base levels, with NuLuxe-trimmed seats, power-adjustable front seats, and a host of other amenities. Higher trims offered semi-aniline leather upholstery, sport seats, heated and ventilated elements, and power-folding capabilities. Despite its luxurious vibe, the center console design seemed outdated, sticking with traditional buttons and a less-than-modern aesthetic.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 also embraced a modern and somewhat sporty aesthetic but took a different approach. With its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and brightwork, the GLE 53 appeared more like an athletic sneaker in SUV form. While Mercedes decided against V8 engines for 2022, they retained a performance edge with the AMG GLE 53.

Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe was lavish with Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment lent it a high-tech aura, despite the perceived complexity for newcomers. Ambient lighting added a layer of comfort during nighttime drives, yet a simplistic facade masked its intricate technology stack.

The 2021 Lexus RX variants, including the RX, RXL, and RX F-Sport, were powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the engine provided a smooth but occasionally indecisive drive. The RX Hybrid models combined a V6 engine with three electric motors, delivering 308 horsepower through an electronic continuously variable transmission (e-CVT).

Fuel efficiency was a strong point for the RX, with the FWD version receiving 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway ratings. AWD models and hybrids also offered decent mileage, with the hybrids performing notably better in city conditions. With its tuning adjustments, the RX promised a more dynamic driving experience, especially in the F Sport variant, though it wouldn't be classified as a sports SUV.

The RX's acceleration was moderate, reaching 60 mph in just under eight seconds, with a top speed governed at 124 mph. These numbers were respectable for a luxury cruiser but less thrilling for performance-seekers.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 roared ahead with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine that produced a robust 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. An EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed while conserving fuel. The vehicle demonstrated 18.5 mpg in real-world combined driving.

Complementing the powerful engine was a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and the 4Matic+ AWD system, highlighting a fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select provided multiple driving modes, including Comfort to Sport+ options, significantly affecting the SUV's performance attributes.

In urban settings, the GLE 53's speed-sensitive steering simplified maneuvers, while the AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes enhanced driving dynamics, albeit creating a stiffer ride on imperfect roads. On winding backroads and highways, the GLE proved agile, with ample power reserves for spirited driving.

The Lexus RX offered varying seating configurations, with the two-row models accommodating five occupants and the three-row RXL variants seating up to seven. The front and second-row seats provided ample space, though the third row in RXL models was notably cramped.

Cargo capacity was a consideration, especially with the RX's sloped roof. The two-row RX offered 18.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 56.3 cubic feet with the seats down. The three-row RXL reduced this to 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 23 cubic feet behind the second, and 58.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Traditional SUV models like the Nissan Murano and Honda CR-V surpassed the RX's cargo space.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53, technically a five-seater, was best suited for four adults, given the limited rear-seat width for three adults. However, the luxurious and adjustable front seats compensated for long journeys, adding heating, ventilation, and massage capabilities.

Cargo space in the GLE Coupe stood competitively at 27.5 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. While not as spacious as a regular GLE, the Coupe’s cargo capacity was sufficient for most needs but not as capacious as other SUVs in its class.

The RX came packed with tech, featuring standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, and integration with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Additional features included a WiFi hotspot, six USB ports, and a nine-speaker sound system.

Optional upgrades spanned triple-zone climate control, a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, and premium audio configurations. The infotainment system, while visually appealing, was hindered by a less intuitive operating structure, and the Remote Touch controller, though improved, remained cumbersome compared to competitors’ systems.

The GLE 53 featured the advanced MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, encompassing instrument cluster and touchscreen capabilities. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless charging. The Burmester sound system further added to the premium feel.

MBUX's ease of use was substantiated by its natural voice recognition, rivaling household assistants like Siri and Alexa. However, the touchpad on the center console had issues with inadvertent activation. Optional tech included gesture recognition, augmented reality for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester audio system, enhancing the SUV’s high-tech allure.

The 2021 Lexus RX earned a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS and scored well in crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA awarded the RX 350 and variants four out of five stars overall, with a perfect five for side-impact protection.

Standard safety features encompassed a rearview camera, 10 airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0 suite, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping aids. Yet, the safety tech lacked the latest hands-free piloting capabilities found in newer models like Genesis, Cadillac, and Tesla.

Mercedes equipped the GLE 53 with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and the unique Pre Safe Sound. The Emergency Call Service was a standout feature offering lifetime access.

The optional Driver Assistance Package introduced 15 additional safety systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The adaptive systems demonstrated impressive refinement and responsiveness during testing. Braking assistance and lane-keeping aid provided robust support, enhancing long-term safety and convenience.

Crash-test data for the GLE Coupe were not available, but the standard GLE received high ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.