2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing presence. Although it wasn't the only massive SUV on the road, few could rival its unapologetic embrace of size. The grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were all upsized to match the Escalade's dimensions, evoking the iconic sky-high tailfins of classic Cadillacs. The front end, with its tall hood, vertical running lights, and horizontal headlights, appeared as if borrowed from a diesel locomotive. Despite various styling elements, the Escalade consistently emphasized its bulk, making even the 22-inch wheels look diminutive against its vast sheet metal. The model also came in different trims, offering bright or darkened exterior trims depending on whether buyers opted for "luxury" or "sport" models.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class had a subtler, yet refined exterior makeover. The changes for the 2024 model year were so subtle that only an expertly trained eye might notice them. The grille was adorned with Mercedes star logos and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights were made. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were the focus of these updates. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with sleek 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, presented a sophisticated appearance. Mercedes offered various wheel designs and exterior colors, emphasizing both aesthetic appeal and functionality. The interior of the GLE showcased impeccable luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery combined with natural grain brown walnut trim, further enhanced by an array of interior color and trim options.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade provided two powertrain choices. The standard 6.2-liter gasoline V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six diesel engine, available for just $100, delivered 277 horsepower and matched the V8's torque. Both engines came paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and offered either rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or optional four-wheel-drive (4WD). A performance-focused 2023 Cadillac Escalade-V model was also available, boasting a 682-horsepower 6.2-liter supercharged V8. The diesel engine, tested in this review, impressed with smooth power delivery and a lower torque peak, making it handy for quick off-the-line performance. However, a hard brake pedal and unsettled ride detracted from the overall driving experience. The gasoline engine had a slight edge in towing, with a maximum capacity of 8,200 pounds, slightly less than the Lincoln Navigator's 8,700 pounds. The Escalade's ride quality, even with independent rear suspension, left much to be desired, feeling unsettled and jiggly, especially compared to rivals like the BMW X7, Mercedes-Benz GLS, and Range Rover.

Mercedes-Benz offered the 2023 GLE-Class with a variety of powertrains, catering to different SUV shoppers. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S models for high-performance enthusiasts. Engine choices ranged from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a potent twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, struck a balance between acceleration, fuel economy, and handling. The test vehicle could achieve a zero to 60 mph time of 5.4 seconds, and its transition from electric to gas power was nearly imperceptible. The suspension absorbed road imperfections seamlessly, even on 21-inch alloys, contributing to a serene and composed ride. With around 196 inches in length, the GLE also managed to be maneuverable and easy to control on the road.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade continued its tradition of being a high-end version of other GM full-size SUVs, sharing its body shell and chassis with the Chevrolet Tahoe and GMC Yukon. Measuring 211.9 inches long for the standard version and 227 inches for the ESV, the Escalade offered an exceptionally spacious cabin. It boasted the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs and had impressive cargo capacity, with 25.5 cubic feet behind the third row, 63.0 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 109.1 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. However, some functionality issues, such as a lack of ample storage space in the raised center console and front seats that felt ordinary, hindered the otherwise spacious and luxurious interior.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class excelled in providing comfortable and spacious seating for adults in both the first and second rows. The GLE 450e impressed with its roomy cabin, further enhanced by the light beige upholstery creating an airy feel. Outward visibility was notably good, a rarity among modern SUVs. With 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 40/20/40 split-folding second row, the GLE compared favorably to competitors like the BMW X5 but fell short of three-row SUVs like the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. Although technically available with an optional third row, the GLE's third-row seat was best suited for young children. The test vehicle came with an array of comfort features, from heated power-adjustable front seats to ventilated seats, augmented reality navigation, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured one of the most sophisticated infotainment systems in any production vehicle, boasting a 38-inch curved OLED display that combined three screens: a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 16.9-inch touchscreen, and a 7.2-inch screen for trip-computer functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Cadillac smartly integrated the display into the dashboard and provided physical toggles for climate control and essential functions. However, some usability issues, like the awkward carousel format for changing radio stations and a less-than-ideal rotary controller, detracted from the otherwise impressive setup. Despite these quirks, the Escalade excelled in tech features such as a high-resolution 360-degree camera system, a rearview camera mirror, night vision, and augmented-reality navigation.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class came equipped with the advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment display. Users could control the system via touch commands, a center console control pad, or touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons. The system was user-friendly but had a learning curve due to its extensive features. Standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system, enhanced the GLE's tech experience. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation received praise for their clarity and functionality, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused unintended volume changes. Overall, the GLE's tech offerings were impressive and robust, rivaling top competitors in the segment.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came loaded with standard driver-assist features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking (front and rear), front and rear park assist, lane-keep assist, and lane-departure warning. The vibration-based Cadillac Safety Alert Seat provided unique feedback from these systems. Higher trim levels offered additional features like blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and trailer blind-spot monitoring. Cadillac's Super Cruise, available on most trims for $2,500, stood out as one of the most advanced driver-assist systems, enabling hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. It impressed with its smooth and natural responses but occasionally disengaged unexpectedly. However, the lack of safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA left some uncertainty about the Escalade's crashworthiness.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class included an extensive suite of standard safety features, such as blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional $1,950 Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist. These features were seamlessly integrated, enhancing safety without being intrusive during daily driving. Notably, the systems operated without overreacting to everyday driving situations, making the GLE a safe and reliable choice.