2021 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a more traditional SUV styling compared to other small luxury crossovers, featuring a tall, flat roof and an upright rear hatch. It seamlessly integrated with the rest of the Volvo lineup, showcasing familial styling elements like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a white contrasting roof for a retro touch. The XC40 Recharge differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, subtle “Recharge” badging, and unique alloy wheels. It also featured a gloss black roof and mirror caps, a distinct rear bumper, and a model-exclusive Sage Green Metallic color. The interior was minimalist yet premium, with real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery, creating a coherent and pleasing design.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, was styled with a sporty flair, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork contributed to its striking appearance. Inside, the GLE Coupe was luxurious, with high-end materials and a high-tech look, thanks to its dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design. The cabin featured Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. Ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. The interior design masked complexity with a facade of simplicity, requiring some acclimation to operate the vehicle’s technology smoothly.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge model at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge model shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring dual electric motors for AWD, generating a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It housed a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 75 kWh usable capacity, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The XC40 emphasized luxury, comfort, and quietness, with excellent ride quality even on rough roads. It also offered one-pedal driving and a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque. It featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, enhancing power and fuel efficiency. The EPA estimated 19 mpg in combined driving, with a real-world result of 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system. It offered multiple driving modes, an AMG sport exhaust system, and an AMG Active Ride Control suspension. The SUV was nimble and composed, with a tight turning radius and impressive grip. In Sport+ mode, it excelled on challenging roads, though its size and weight were noticeable. The performance exhaust system was loud, but could be toned down for a quieter ride.

The 2021 Volvo XC40, both in gasoline and Recharge variants, offered no difference in passenger or cargo space. However, it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, with limited legroom and a smaller cargo area. The frunk was also small due to powertrain hardware. Clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin and large door bins, compensated for the lack of space. The Harman Kardon audio system’s speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for extra-large door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, with a single USB-C port standard, though rear passengers lacked charging options.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe technically seated five, but was more comfortable for four, especially if the rear passengers were adults. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing comfort and support. Visibility was challenging at the rear, necessitating the use of available cameras. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone climate control system, heated armrests, and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious feel.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The system offered OTA update capability, allowing for software updates without visiting a dealership. Recharge models lacked a start button, using a key fob for ignition. The Polestar 2’s Digital Key feature was expected in future updates, but not confirmed for the XC40.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. It included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology activated by saying “Hey Mercedes.” The touchpad on the center console was less intuitive, often activated inadvertently. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D surround-sound system.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 gasoline model received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, though these ratings didn’t apply to the electric Recharge model. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. Optional features included traffic-sign recognition and Volvo’s Pilot Assist system. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aids.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system protected hearing during a collision. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe’s safety systems were refined and accurate, with lane-keeping assistance operating transparently. Crash-test results were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings.