CarGurus Header

2022 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
$54,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
$54,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$54,750

MSRP

$35,855

Listings

327

Listings

247

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Expert reviews

8.2 out of 10

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Premium interior materials

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • Uninspired styling

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

  • Underwhelming base engine

Pros

  • Great ride quality

  • Easy-to-use technology

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE Reviews Summary

Redesigned for 2020, the GLE-Class is the second-most-popular Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. It's a midsize luxury SUV in every traditional sense, but because Mercedes has way too much time and money to develop cars, the newest GLE has comfort and technology that border on ridiculous. The GLE Coupe models are brand-new for 2021 and among the strangest vehicles on the planet. Among the eight variants of this big Benz, at least one might fit your lifestyle, if not your budget.

2022 Toyota Highlander Reviews Summary

If you have a family and need a spacious, three-row vehicle to haul around the kids and all their gear, the choices can seem overwhelming. This includes SUVs and minivans. There are also a lot of gimmicks, like built-in vacuums and intercom systems—as if yelling back to the third row isn’t the least bit satisfying. The 2022 Toyota Highlander might be guilty of offering some of these gimmicks, but where it really shines is by covering the basics. This three-row midsize SUV offers tons of versatility, a stout V6 engine, and it comes standard with safety features buyers are looking for.

There is a wide range of trims, features, and prices that make up the Highlander lineup. Depending on your needs and budget, there might be an ideal setup for your family. Read on to learn more about the Highlander and where it stacks up in an all-important family-hauling vehicle segment.

No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

2.0L 255 hp I4

Engine

3.5L 295 hp V6

Drive Train

RWD

Drive Train

FWD

Seating Capacity

7

Seating Capacity

8

Horsepower

255 hp @ 5800 rpm

Horsepower

295 hp @ 6600 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

26

MPG Highway

28
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
$54,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
$54,750MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2022 Toyota Highlander
$35,855MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$54,750
$35,855
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

4.5

4.4

Expert reviews

8.0 out of 10

Read full review

8.2 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Premium interior materials

  • Impressive technology

Cons

  • Uninspired styling

  • Advanced safety features are not standard

  • Underwhelming base engine

Pros

  • Great ride quality

  • Easy-to-use technology

  • Standard advanced safety features

Cons

  • Cramped third row

Summary
Redesigned for 2020, the GLE-Class is the second-most-popular Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. It's a midsize luxury SUV in every traditional sense, but because Mercedes has way too much time and money to develop cars, the newest GLE has comfort and technology that border on ridiculous. The GLE Coupe models are brand-new for 2021 and among the strangest vehicles on the planet. Among the eight variants of this big Benz, at least one might fit your lifestyle, if not your budget.

If you have a family and need a spacious, three-row vehicle to haul around the kids and all their gear, the choices can seem overwhelming. This includes SUVs and minivans. There are also a lot of gimmicks, like built-in vacuums and intercom systems—as if yelling back to the third row isn’t the least bit satisfying. The 2022 Toyota Highlander might be guilty of offering some of these gimmicks, but where it really shines is by covering the basics. This three-row midsize SUV offers tons of versatility, a stout V6 engine, and it comes standard with safety features buyers are looking for.

There is a wide range of trims, features, and prices that make up the Highlander lineup. Depending on your needs and budget, there might be an ideal setup for your family. Read on to learn more about the Highlander and where it stacks up in an all-important family-hauling vehicle segment.

Video
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
2.0L 255 hp I4
3.5L 295 hp V6
Drive Train
RWD
FWD
Seating Capacity
7
8
Horsepower
255 hp @ 5800 rpm
295 hp @ 6600 rpm
MPG City
19
20
MPG Highway
26
28
Look and feel

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

6/10

2022 Toyota Highlander

8/10

The GLE-Class is described as an OK-looking vehicle, with an exterior that has a promise of something great but falls short in comparison to its rivals. However, the interior has been significantly improved, offering a high-quality, well-designed, and spacious cabin.

The Highlander boasts a modern, somewhat aggressive front-end design and a spacious interior with clever storage solutions. It offers a range of trims with varying features, including unique exterior styling, ambient interior lighting, and a sport-tuned suspension.

Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Picture of 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE
Performance

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

10/10

2022 Toyota Highlander

7/10

The GLE excels as a multi-purpose vehicle, featuring a complex suspension and engine setup, with various suspension configurations and hybrid options. It offers exceptional driving dynamics, towing capacity, and ride quality.

The Highlander is equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine, providing ample power for everyday driving. It offers good handling, a sport-tuned suspension, and a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds.

Form and function

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

7/10

2022 Toyota Highlander

9/10

The GLE offers a roomy two-row SUV with an optional third row, providing ample cargo space and advanced usability features. The new MBUX infotainment system enhances the overall user experience.

The Highlander provides up to 84.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third-row seats folded, along with numerous storage compartments and thoughtful interior design.

Technology

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

10/10

2022 Toyota Highlander

8/10

CarGurus experts rate the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class 10 out of 10 for technology, and the 2022 Toyota Highlander 8 out of 10.

The GLE features a sophisticated 12-inch touchscreen display with advanced gesture controls, MBUX infotainment system, and a wide array of electronic features and driver aids.

The Highlander comes standard with an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa support, along with available features such as a wireless charging pad and a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen.

Safety

2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

10/10

2022 Toyota Highlander

8/10

The GLE offers top safety ratings, standard driver-assistance features, and a wide range of optional safety technologies, including semi-automated control and advanced crash protection systems.

The Highlander comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense suite, offering a comprehensive set of driver-assistance features, with additional safety options available on higher trims.

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Highlander scores 8.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Highlander emerges as the recommended choice, offering a well-rounded package with a strong emphasis on practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a versatile range of features.

Choose the 2022 Toyota Highlander if:

8.2of 10overall
  • You value practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a versatile interior with ample cargo space.
  • You are looking for a reliable and efficient SUV with a comprehensive set of standard and available safety features.
  • You prefer a range of trims and options to tailor the vehicle to your specific needs and budget.
247 results
See all

Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE if:

8of 10overall
  • You prioritize advanced technology, luxurious interior, and top-notch safety features.
  • You seek exceptional driving performance, towing capability, and a range of hybrid options.
  • You are willing to invest in a sophisticated and prestigious SUV with a spacious and well-designed cabin.
327 results
See all

CarGurus highlights

Winning Vehicle Image

According to CarGurus experts, the overall rating for 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class is 8.0 out of 10, while the 2022 Toyota Highlander scores 8.2 out of 10. Based on these ratings, the 2022 Toyota Highlander emerges as the recommended choice, offering a well-rounded package with a strong emphasis on practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a versatile range of features.

Choose the 2022 Toyota Highlander if:

Shop Now
8.2of 10overall
  • You value practicality, cost-effectiveness, and a versatile interior with ample cargo space.
  • You are looking for a reliable and efficient SUV with a comprehensive set of standard and available safety features.
  • You prefer a range of trims and options to tailor the vehicle to your specific needs and budget.
247 results

Choose the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE if:

Shop Now
8of 10overall
  • You prioritize advanced technology, luxurious interior, and top-notch safety features.
  • You seek exceptional driving performance, towing capability, and a range of hybrid options.
  • You are willing to invest in a sophisticated and prestigious SUV with a spacious and well-designed cabin.
327 results

CarGurus logo

By: CarGurus + AI

At CarGurus, our team of experienced automotive writers remain at the heart of our content operation, conducting hands-on car tests and writing insightful guides that are backed by years of industry experience. To complement this, we are harnessing AI to make our content offering more diverse and more helpful to shoppers than ever. To achieve this, our AI systems are based exclusively on CarGurus content, ratings and data, so that what we produce is both unique to CarGurus, and uniquely helpful to car shoppers.

Popular vehicle comparisons

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 MINI Countryman2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 INFINITI QX802023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 INFINITI QX802023 MINI Countryman vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Lexus NX2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Lexus RX Hybrid2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lexus NX2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Toyota Sequoia2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volkswagen ID.42022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 INFINITI QX802022 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Volkswagen ID.42022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Toyota Sequoia2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 INFINITI QX802022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lexus NX2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Lexus NX2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2022 Volkswagen ID.4 vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE2022 MINI Countryman vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Kia Carnival2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Toyota Sequoia2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia2021 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE2021 INFINITI QX80 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE2021 MINI Countryman vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Genesis GV702021 Toyota Highlander vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover2021 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Toyota Highlander2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 Lexus RX Hybrid2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover2020 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Toyota Highlander2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Toyota Sequoia2020 Land Rover Range Rover Velar vs 2021 Toyota Highlander2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2020 Land Rover Range Rover2020 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 BMW X72020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 Toyota Sequoia2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 Lexus NX2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 INFINITI QX802020 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 INFINITI QX802019 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 INFINITI QX802019 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2019 Lexus RX Hybrid2019 Lexus NX vs 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 Lexus NX2019 INFINITI QX80 vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 MINI Countryman2019 INFINITI QX80 vs 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2020 Lexus RX Hybrid
CarGurus Footer