2021 Lexus NX Hybrid vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE had a design that was considered adequate but not particularly striking. Its exterior, while promising with an aggressive nose and sloping hood, lost its appeal past the A-pillar, resembling older models. Despite efforts to enhance its appearance with flat taillights and a contoured rear, it struggled to match the aesthetic appeal of competitors like BMW and Audi. However, the interior was a different story, offering a luxurious experience with high-quality materials and a bold red and black color scheme. The interior design was praised for its layout and textures, although some controls felt flimsy.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid featured sharp edges and a streamlined profile, maintaining a familiar yet distinct look. Despite its age, the NX's design remained consistent, sharing a platform with the previous-generation Toyota RAV4. The F Sport Black Line model added sporty elements like a larger grille and dark-finish wheels, complemented by a striking Grecian Water blue paint. Inside, the NX's design felt familiar, with a stepped center console and a lack of traditional luxury materials. The Black Line treatment added sporty touches, but the overall material quality was more akin to mainstream brands.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its complex 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 boasted 429 hp, and the GLE 580 had 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.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid, with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced a total of 194 hp. It wasn't a performance vehicle, taking 9.1 seconds to reach 60 mph. The hybrid system prioritized fuel efficiency over excitement, with a clunky transition between electric and gasoline power. The sport-tuned suspension improved handling, but the steering felt numb. Drive modes offered minimal impact on performance, and the NX struggled to match the driving dynamics of newer models based on the Toyota New Global Architecture platform.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered spacious interiors with optional third-row seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. Cargo capacity was generous, with 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe variant had less space due to its design. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a touchpad interface and intuitive controls, though it required setup before driving.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid had limited interior space, with the least front headroom in its segment and cramped rear seats. The front seats were comfortable, offering 10-way power adjustment and optional heated and ventilated features. The sloping roofline and thick pillars hindered rear visibility. Cargo space was limited, with 16.8 cubic feet behind the rear seats and 53.7 cubic feet with them folded. The NX offered a power-folding second row and power liftgate, but these were not standard.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture controls and a customizable head-up display. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a natural voice assistant. The AMG models had a Track Pace app for performance tracking. The GLE's technology was extensive, offering features like seat kinetics, ambient lighting, and semi-automated driving functions.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid's infotainment system was a weak point, with an 8-inch display and a difficult-to-use Remote Touch Interface touchpad. While it supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, the system felt dated with text-heavy menus. An eight-speaker audio system was standard, with a 14-speaker Mark Levinson system available on higher trims.

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 features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and a 360-degree camera system. The GLE also featured Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side for enhanced safety.

The 2021 Lexus NX Hybrid also received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It came standard with the Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver aids. However, it lacked a 360-degree camera system, which was common among competitors.