2021 Volvo XC60 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class was, visually, an underwhelming creation. Although it boasted aggressive cues such as a sloping, low hood and sharp nose, the design seemed to give up past the A-pillar, retaining a semblance to its predecessor. Though it offered flat taillights and a contoured rear, which helped it stray from a minivan-like appearance, it still failed to match the balanced proportions of its competitors like BMW, Audi, and even Lincoln. In AMG trims, the GLE appeared dressed in a tracksuit it couldn’t quite pull off, lacking the aesthetic impact to compete with models like the BMW X5 M or Porsche Cayenne Turbo. However, the GLE's interior told a different story. Redesigned to match the standard GLE, the GLE Coupe sported a streamlined design with a harmonious layout and high-quality materials. The twin arching grab handles outlined with LED lighting, luxurious wood, metal, and leather finishes, and lavish color choices such as the red and black combination exemplified an opulent ambiance. Yet, despite these notable improvements, areas like the flimsy gear selector and turn signal stalks hinted at areas where Mercedes could polish further.

Conversely, the 2021 Volvo XC60 showcased the fruition of Volvo's rebirth post its acquisition by Geely Holding Group. Featuring the SPA platform since 2018, the XC60 embodied elegance with its tailored two-box crossover design, short overhangs, and crisp details emphasizing agility. The upright grille with Volvo’s iron mark logo and uniquely Swedish Thor’s hammer LED daytime running lights added to its understated sophistication. Inside, the XC60 took "Scandinavian" design to heart with clean lines, authentic materials, and a serene cabin atmosphere. The 9-inch portrait-oriented infotainment display, initially revolutionary and now accepted, integrated seamlessly into the minimalist dashboard. Uncommon attention to details like the shape and operation of HVAC vents, with their elegant chromed knob, added a touch of class. Every texture and color was thoughtfully placed to ensure a cohesive, tranquil environment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class distinguished itself with its air suspension and versatile engine setups. Among five suspension configurations, the base GLE 350 used a reliable coil-sprung setup, while higher trims like the GLE 450 introduced the self-leveling AIRMATIC air springs. The AMG Ride Control+ and E-Active Body Control took things further, offering anti-roll bars with electrohydraulic motors, making the GLE adept at handling turns like a pro. This advanced system even boasted the ability to bounce free in sand, demonstrating Mercedes' commitment to versatility. Engine configurations ranged from the modest 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque in the GLE 350 to the monstrous 603 hp and 627 lb-ft in the AMG GLE 63 S. The introduction of the electric supercharger in the AMG GLE 53 provided instant throttle response without any lag. Despite varying fuel efficiency, the GLE stood out for its extraordinary driving experience and significant towing capacity of up to 7700 pounds.

On the flip side, the 2021 Volvo XC60 focused on a uniform yet effective performance foundation. All XC60 models utilized a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The T5 variant, available in FWD or AWD, produced 250 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque using a turbocharger. The T6 added a supercharger to enhance power to 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The plug-in hybrid T8 raised the stakes with 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, while the T8 Polestar Engineered took it to 415 hp. The Polestar Engineered variant allowed for limited all-electric driving up to 19 miles and used its hybrid nature to maximize efficiency and performance. With a decent towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, the XC60 promised a serene, stable, and secure driving experience, making it an excellent road-trip vehicle, especially for a small family. The fuel economy was competitive, reaching up to 57 MPGe in electric-only mode for the T8.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class offered generous space with its optional third-row seating for seven, granting second-row passengers power recline, fore-aft adjustments, and easy third-row access. The regular GLE provided 34 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 75 cubic feet with seats folded. The Coupe, however, due to its design, limited cargo space to 23 cubic feet behind the second row and 61 cubic feet with seats down. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the MBUX infotainment system, which, despite being an upgrade, required initial familiarization.

The Volvo XC60, tailored for comfort and practicality, offered 21.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and up to 63.6 cubic feet with seats folded. Its design intelligently balanced storage and aesthetics. The XC60’s heated seats and robust heating system were noteworthy, particularly for winter driving, showcasing Volvo's expertise in handling cold weather conditions. The intuitive, glove-friendly controls, substantial storage, and well-considered details like the elegant HVAC vent operation contributed to its high practicality rating.

The technology suite in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class was nothing short of comprehensive. The 12-inch main touchscreen included an Interior Assistant for gesture-based controls, customizable shortcuts, and a simplified interface. Features like Track Pace, Seat Kinetics, Energizing Comfort, and dozens of head-up display configurations marked its advanced technological offerings. The natural voice assistant and semi-automated functionalities added to driver convenience and safety, although the system’s complexity could overwhelm users.

Volvo’s Sensus infotainment system in the 2021 XC60 featured a portrait-oriented touchpad, requiring familiarization but rewarding users with straightforward, quadrant-based functionality. Integrated smartphone features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Wi-Fi hotspot, and the Volvo On Call app added convenience. The optional Bowers & Wilkins premium audio system offered exceptional sound quality, further enhancing the XC60's technology proposition.

Both the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class and Volvo XC60 shone brightly in terms of safety. The GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and included standard features such as forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and driver attention monitoring. Additional options included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, evasive steering assist, and the semi-automated driving system with cross-traffic braking. Innovative features like Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side emphasized Mercedes' attention to comprehensive occupant protection.

Volvo’s 2021 XC60, echoing its storied safety legacy, also garnered a Top Safety Pick+ rating and five-star NHTSA ratings for various trims. The XC60 came standard with a plethora of safety features, including collision avoidance, various mitigation systems, driver alert control, and the unique care key. Volvo's semi-autonomous Pilot Assist system and the voluntary top speed restriction of 112 mph underscored the company's dedication to safety.