2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, despite its improvements, struggled to captivate with its exterior design. It retained a somewhat rushed appearance, reminiscent of its predecessors, with a promising aggressive front that lost its allure past the A-pillar. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to counter its minivan-like tendencies, but it still fell short compared to rivals like the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90. However, the interior was a different story, showcasing a masterpiece of quality and design. The red and black interior was both bold and luxurious, with materials like wood, metal, and leather creating a tactile delight. The GLE's interior exuded a sense of opulence, though it required significant options to truly feel luxurious.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC40 embraced a more traditional SUV styling, with a tall, flat roof and upright rear hatch. It seamlessly fit into the Volvo lineup with its signature "Thor’s Hammer" LED headlights and simple oval grille. The XC40 Recharge distinguished itself with subtle design tweaks, such as a blanked-off grille and model-specific alloy wheels. The interior was minimalist yet premium, featuring high-quality materials like Nappa leather and Nubuck textile. The design was coherent, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending harmoniously. While it lacked the spaciousness of some competitors, clever storage solutions compensated for the limited space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled as a versatile SUV, boasting a complex suspension and engine setup. It offered five suspension configurations, with the base GLE 350 using a coil-sprung setup for reliability and comfort. The GLE 450 featured AIRMATIC with self-leveling air springs, while the AMG Ride Control+ added sport-tuned features. The E-Active Body Control allowed the GLE to lean into turns like a motorcyclist. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe introduced an electric supercharger for instant throttle response. Most GLE models were hybrids, with an electric motor-generator providing additional power and seamless auto stop-start functionality. Fuel efficiency varied, with the GLE 450 achieving 21/26/23 mpg. The GLE 350 had 255 hp, while the GLE 450 offered 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 reached 429 hp, and the GLE 580 boasted 483 hp. The GLE 63 S topped the range with 603 hp. All models could tow up to 7,700 pounds, and the driving experience was exceptional, with precise steering and impressive ride quality.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 had 187 hp, while the AWD T5 offered 248 hp. The Recharge shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring dual electric motors for 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque. The Recharge achieved 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds, while the T5 and T4 took 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. The Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. It offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a spacious two-row SUV, with an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second-row seats offered power controls for added comfort. The Coupe variant accommodated five passengers, though the middle seat was less comfortable. Cargo capacity was 34 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe had less cargo space due to its sloping roofline. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability, with a single touchpad and simplified interface. Seat controls and driving mode shortcuts were user-friendly, though the steering wheel thumbpads required some adjustment.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered no difference in passenger or cargo space between the Recharge and gasoline models. However, it had less legroom and headroom compared to competitors like the Tesla Model Y. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin and large door bins, compensated for the limited space. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for extra-large door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, while a single USB-C port was standard. Second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, allowing for gesture-based shortcuts. The system was intuitive, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. AMG models included a Track Pace app for virtual pit crew functions. The Seat Kinetics feature made small adjustments for comfort. The head-up display and instrument panel were customizable, with sharp graphics. Ambient lighting offered 64 colors and animations. The navigation system projected camera feeds with overlays for directions. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were complemented by a natural voice assistant. The GLE's semi-automated functionality included lane changes and curve adjustments.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge introduced the Android Automotive OS, featuring Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. The system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The standard setup featured a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. Graphics and menu layouts were top-notch, though some drivers might not prefer Google's interface. The Recharge offered OTA update capability for software-controlled functions. It lacked a start button, allowing drivers to shift out of park with the key fob. A Digital Key feature was planned for the Polestar 2 but not confirmed for the XC40.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for its crash test performance and standard forward emergency braking. The NHTSA had not rated the GLE. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a driver attention monitor. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and evasive steering assist. The Pre-Safe Sound system played "pink noise" to reduce hearing damage in a crash, while Pre-Safe Impulse Side inflated seat bolsters for side impact protection.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 received the Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. The electric XC40 Recharge had not been rated, but Volvo expected it to perform well due to its safety cage and redesigned crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. Optional features included traffic-sign recognition and Volvo's Pilot Assist system. The Recharge model featured Volvo's latest sensor suite, capable of future updates for advanced driver aids.