2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE had a design that was considered adequate, with a somewhat rushed appearance reminiscent of its predecessors. While the aggressive front end showed promise, the design seemed to lose its distinctiveness past the A-pillar, making it hard to differentiate from older models. Despite efforts to enhance its styling, the GLE struggled to match the aesthetic appeal of competitors like the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90. However, the interior of the GLE was a different story, offering a luxurious and cohesive design with high-quality materials and a striking color scheme. The redesigned interior was a masterpiece, featuring a mix of wood, metal, leather, and suede, although some controls felt flimsy.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX maintained a sharp and familiar design, aligning with the brand's styling seen in models like the UX and RX. The NX F Sport variant added sporty elements such as a honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the NX offered a well-crafted interior with excellent material fit and finish, typical of Lexus. The F Sport models featured exclusive quilted NuLuxe sport seats and optional color schemes, adding to the luxury feel. However, the center stack design appeared outdated, and the infotainment system was less user-friendly compared to competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced air suspension and turbocharged engines. The GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 took it further with 429 hp, and the GLE 580 boasted a twin-turbo V8 with 483 hp. The top-tier AMG GLE 63 S delivered a staggering 603 hp. The GLE's hybrid system, integrated with a 48-volt battery, provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality. Despite its size, the GLE offered exceptional ride quality and steering, with a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus NX, while not designed for sportiness, delivered capable performance with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 235 hp. The NX's six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though less smooth than newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride. The F Sport variant included Active Sound Control for enhanced engine notes. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway. The NX's adaptive suspension system provided a comfortable driving experience, though steering feedback was limited.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered spacious interiors, with most models accommodating five passengers, and an optional third row increasing capacity to seven. The second-row seats featured power controls for added comfort. Cargo space was generous, with 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe variant, however, had reduced cargo space due to its design. The GLE's usability improved with the MBUX infotainment system, offering a simplified interface and easy-to-use controls.

The 2021 Lexus NX provided a comfortable interior with ample room for front passengers and decent legroom for rear passengers. The NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with seats folded, making it one of the smallest in its class. The NX featured a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats. Despite engine noise, the cabin remained quiet from road and wind noise, maintaining the typical Lexus experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was packed with advanced technology, featuring a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture control and a simplified interface. The AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance tracking. The GLE offered a range of comfort features, including seat kinetics, ambient lighting with 64 colors, and a natural voice assistant. The navigation system provided augmented reality directions, and the semi-automated functionality included lane changes and curve adjustments.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus system was less intuitive. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The NX offered a Lexus Premium Audio system, with an optional Mark Levinson 14-speaker upgrade. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions, and the Enform Services Connect provided maintenance alerts.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and standard forward emergency braking. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. The GLE also featured Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for enhanced protection.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included park assist and a surround-view camera. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus offered a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.