2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, while not particularly striking in its exterior design, made significant strides in its interior aesthetics. The GLE's exterior, despite its aggressive front nose and sloping hood, failed to maintain a distinct identity past the A-pillar, often blending into the background when compared to its more stylish competitors like the BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne. However, the interior of the GLE was a different story. It was a masterpiece of quality and design, featuring a bold red and black color scheme and luxurious materials such as wood, metal, and leather. The interior was not only visually appealing but also functional, with features like twin arching grab handles and a well-thought-out layout that enhanced the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a platform with the Nissan Armada, which was evident in its design. However, the QX80 managed to carve out its own identity with a distinctive front grille and tasteful use of chrome. The exterior was complemented by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels, adding to its upscale appearance. Inside, the QX80's cabin was adorned with upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline leather seats and tasteful wood trim. Despite these efforts, the interior design felt somewhat dated compared to its competitors. While the QX80's cabin was comfortable and attractive, it struggled to meet the high expectations set by the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance, offering a range of engine options and advanced suspension systems. The base GLE 350 featured a 255-horsepower engine, while the GLE 450 boasted a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 horsepower. The AMG GLE 53 took it further with 429 horsepower, and the GLE 580 offered a twin-turbo V8 with 483 horsepower. The top-tier AMG GLE 63 S delivered a staggering 603 horsepower. The GLE's hybrid system, integrated with a 48-volt battery, provided additional power and improved efficiency. The GLE's air suspension system, particularly the E-Active Body Control, allowed for exceptional handling and ride quality, making it feel agile despite its size. The GLE's towing capacity of 7,700 pounds was impressive, and its ride quality and steering were praised for their precision.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. The engine provided strong performance and a pleasing exhaust note, although it was thirsty for fuel. The QX80's seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth shifts and effective power distribution. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, thanks to its body-on-frame construction and available four-wheel drive with a computer-controlled transfer case. The QX80's towing capacity of 8,500 pounds was generous, making it suitable for hauling large trailers or boats. Despite its size, the QX80 managed to control body lean during cornering, aided by the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models configured as two-row SUVs. An optional third row allowed for seating up to seven passengers. The GLE Coupe, however, was limited to five passengers. Cargo capacity was ample, with 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and improved user experience. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with easy-to-use seat controls and rocker switches for suspension settings.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a tall ride height, requiring a climb to enter the cabin. The interior was spacious, with good head and legroom in the front seats. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with an optional second-row bench seat. However, the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The QX80's interior included premium touches like illuminated kick plates and radiant exterior welcome lighting.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen display featuring Interior Assistant, which responded to hand gestures. The system included features like seat massage settings, a Track Pace app for AMG models, and a natural voice assistant. The GLE's infotainment system was user-friendly, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. The head-up display and instrument panel were customizable, and the ambient lighting offered 64 colors. The GLE also included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with semi-automated driving functionality.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, offering Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system available on higher trims. The QX80 also included a wireless smartphone charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system. However, the absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, as the QX80's older architecture couldn't support advanced driver-assistance features.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and standard forward emergency braking. The GLE also included blind-spot monitoring, a driver attention monitor, and optional features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The GLE's Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems enhanced safety by reducing hearing damage and positioning occupants during a crash.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety items included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.