2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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 exterior, reminiscent of its predecessors, lacked the refined proportions seen in competitors like BMW and Audi. Despite its aggressive front, the design seemed to lose momentum past the A-pillar, resulting in a look that was more utilitarian than luxurious. However, the interior was a different story, showcasing a masterful blend of quality materials and innovative design. The red and black interior was both bold and opulent, with features like LED-outlined grab handles and expansive digital displays enhancing the sense of luxury. The interior's tactile elements, from wood to suede, were a delight, although some controls felt less robust.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover maintained a familiar exterior design, evolving rather than revolutionizing its look. The most notable change was at the rear, where sleek LED strips replaced the previous square taillights, adding a modern touch. The Range Rover's design emphasized its substantial presence, especially in the long-wheelbase version. Inside, the Range Rover simplified its layout, reducing buttons and knobs for a cleaner look. The larger touchscreen and premium materials, including rich leather and wood, elevated the cabin's luxury feel. The interior exuded a sense of solidity and refinement, with a quiet cabin that rivaled even the most expensive luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced suspension and engine options. The GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 offered a turbocharged 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 air suspension systems, including the E-Active Body Control, provided exceptional ride quality and handling, allowing the vehicle to lean into turns like a motorcyclist. Despite its size, the GLE handled like a smaller sedan, with a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. The hybrid setup, while not significantly improving fuel efficiency, added a seamless auto stop-start system and additional power when needed.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 395 hp and the P530 with a twin-turbo 4.4-liter V8 delivering 523 hp. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 provided impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, while the P530 offered even more power. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm driving experience. The standard rear-wheel steering improved maneuverability, and the Terrain Response system ensured off-road capability. The Range Rover's ride quality was smooth and quiet, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

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, while the Coupe version was limited to five seats. Cargo capacity was generous, with 34 cubic feet behind the second row and 75 cubic feet with all rows folded. The Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 23 and 61 cubic feet, respectively. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a simplified interface and touchpad controls, although some features required setup before driving.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats offered long-distance comfort with available massage functions, while the second row provided power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space was 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with it folded, and 93 cubic feet at maximum capacity. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, allowing gesture control for various functions. The system included a Track Pace app for AMG models, seat kinetics, and a customizable head-up display. The ambient lighting offered 64 colors, and the navigation system projected directions onto the front camera feed. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a natural voice assistant, enhanced connectivity. The GLE's technology suite was extensive, offering more features than most users would fully utilize.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover introduced a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, complemented by a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Range Rover's technology was user-friendly, though the screen's placement could have been higher for reduced distraction.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with top scores in six crash tests and standard forward emergency braking. The NHTSA had not rated the GLE. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and a driver attention monitor, with optional adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and more. The Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems enhanced safety in potential collisions.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included frontal collision warning with automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The Range Rover's safety features performed well, though some rivals offered additional advanced features.