2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, despite its prestigious brand, did not quite capture the visual allure expected from a luxury SUV. Its design seemed somewhat rushed, with an aggressive front that lost its distinctiveness past the A-pillar, making it resemble its predecessors. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to counteract its minivan-like tendencies, but it still fell short compared to rivals like the BMW X5 or Porsche Cayenne. However, the interior was a different story, offering a luxurious experience with high-quality materials and a striking red and black color scheme. The redesigned GLE Coupe was more streamlined, and the interior was a masterpiece of design and comfort, though some controls felt flimsy.

In contrast, the 2022 Volkswagen Taos presented a straightforward yet appealing design that fit well within Volkswagen's lineup. The SEL 4Motion model, with its 19-inch machined-finish aluminum wheels and Cornflower Blue paint, added a vibrant touch to its personality. The Taos featured typical SUV elements like roof rails and skid plates, though the blacked-out front bumper was a questionable styling choice. Inside, the Taos offered a spacious cabin with comfortable seating and practical features, though the use of hard plastics detracted from its overall appeal. The SEL trim provided upscale touches like two-tone perforated leather and a stitched dashboard, enhancing the interior's aesthetic.

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 turbo 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 provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality, though it didn't significantly improve fuel efficiency. The GLE's ride quality and steering were exceptional, and it could tow up to 7,700 pounds, making it a versatile performer.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos, powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, produced 158 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided adequate power, the turbo lag and erratic shifting of the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission could be frustrating. The standard eight-speed automatic offered smoother performance but was limited to front-wheel drive. The Taos excelled in handling, with responsive steering and effective brakes, but its ground clearance was less than ideal for off-road adventures. The Taos SEL 4Motion achieved an average fuel economy of 27.1 mpg during testing, slightly below the EPA's estimate of 28 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior with optional third-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The second-row seats featured power controls for added comfort, and cargo capacity 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 sloping roofline. The GLE's usability improved with the MBUX infotainment system, though some controls required familiarization.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos impressed with its roomy cabin, especially for a compact SUV. The front seats provided ample adjustment options, and the rear seats offered generous legroom and comfort. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with front-wheel-drive models offering more room. The Taos featured a center pass-through for added versatility, making it suitable for ski trips. However, the storage bin under the front center armrest was small due to rear air conditioning vents.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was packed with advanced technology, including a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture control and a customizable head-up display. The MBUX system offered features like seat kinetics, ambient lighting, and a natural voice assistant. AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance enthusiasts. The GLE's infotainment system was overengineered but well-executed, providing a wealth of electronic features.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came equipped with Digital Cockpit instrumentation and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen, with higher trims featuring an 8-inch display. The MIB3 infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Car-Net connected services. However, the voice recognition technology was inconsistent, and the user experience could be cumbersome. The Taos SEL featured a navigation system and an eight-speaker BeatsAudio sound system, though the transition from Fender to BeatsAudio was not seen as an improvement.

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. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a semi-automated driving system. The GLE also featured Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for added protection.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered IQ Drive safety technologies, available on all trims. The IQ Drive package included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Travel Assist and Emergency Assist were also available, providing advanced driving assistance. The Taos SEL included additional features like rain-sensing wipers and road sign recognition. However, the reverse automatic braking system could be overly sensitive, though it could be disabled.