2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was characterized by its timeless aesthetic, a departure from the aggressive styling trends of its contemporaries. With soft curves and rounded edges, the GLC maintained a modern edge through its menacing LED headlights, yet it avoided the sharp, intimidating grilles seen on competitors like the Lexus NX. Its long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was a masterpiece of automotive design, with flowing lines and a minimalist approach that elevated the interior to an art form. The GLC's interior set a high standard for compact luxury SUV cabins, with features like synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and a fully digital instrument panel.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a more athletic and modern design. Its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels gave it a sporty appearance, akin to an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe offered a high-tech and luxurious experience with dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design. The cabin featured premium materials like Nappa leather and brushed aluminum trim, creating a sophisticated yet dark interior. Ambient lighting added to the driving pleasure, while the lack of traditional controls required some acclimation. Despite its complexity, the GLE Coupe's interior was both sumptuous and technologically advanced, offering a unique blend of luxury and performance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, available in rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC offered a balanced driving experience, with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Dynamic Select drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. While not overly sporty, the GLC's powertrain was responsive, with precise turn-in and confident handling. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC43 and AMG GLC63 variants offered twin-turbocharged V6 and V8 engines, delivering up to 503 horsepower.

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, enhanced by an EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system. This setup provided robust acceleration and improved fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg combined. The GLE Coupe's performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel drive. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, while the AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes maximized performance. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban environments with its speed-sensitive steering and tight turning radius, while its performance capabilities shone on winding roads and highways.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered practical interior space, with 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space in the conventional SUV format and 49.4 cubic feet in the Coupe variant. The GLC's interior was well-designed, with ample storage options, including a center console and deep door pockets. Rear-seat space was adequate, with decent legroom and headroom, although the Coupe's low roofline reduced headroom. The GLC's interior was versatile and functional, making it a solid choice for those seeking a compact luxury SUV.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe provided seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. The GLE Coupe's back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its coupe design, the GLE Coupe offered generous interior space and comfort features, including a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen and advanced voice-control capabilities. The system was intuitive, with both a touch controller and touchscreen for navigation. The steering wheel included touch-sensitive pads for customizing the digital instrument panel and navigating the infotainment screen. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required some navigation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe also came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens under a single glass panel. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. 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 3D surround-sound system, enhancing the GLE Coupe's technological offerings.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was equipped with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Additional features included front and rear parking sensors, hands-free parking assist, and a driver drowsiness monitor. Optional safety features included a 360-degree parking camera, dynamic cruise control, and lane departure warning.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system emitted a "pink noise" tone to protect hearing during a collision. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.