2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer was a small SUV that managed to impress with its appealing design. Chevrolet nailed the proportions, character lines, and details, making it attractive even in its base L trim. The option for a contrasting black or white-painted roof added to its charm. Despite its compact size, the Trailblazer offered a range of trims, from L to RS, with prices starting at $20,195 and going up to $26,695, plus a $1,195 destination charge. The RS trim, which we tested, came with all-wheel drive (AWD) and a starting price of $28,195, but options pushed it to $33,000. However, the interior was filled with hard plastics, which detracted from its overall value.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor changes. The GLE 450e we tested was finished in Twilight Blue metallic and rode on 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which added to its appeal. The interior exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior color choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured turbocharged three-cylinder engines, with the larger 1.3-liter engine delivering 155 horsepower and 174 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with AWD and a nine-speed automatic transmission, provided a sprightly driving experience. The Trailblazer's light curb weight and turbocharged torque made it nimble and fun to drive, especially in RS trim with 18-inch aluminum wheels. However, it was loud on freeways, and the suspension struggled with speed bumps. The Trailblazer averaged 26.1 mpg in combined driving, slightly below the EPA rating of 28 mpg.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 in the AMG GLE 63 S. Our GLE 450e tester combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and offered an estimated electric-only range of 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly. The GLE's steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size, and it excelled in overall performance.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer, though small, was highly functional. It could accommodate four people comfortably, with a 10-way power-adjustable driver seat in the RS trim. The rear seat offered ample legroom but had flat cushions for a flat load floor when folded. The Trailblazer provided 25.3 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 54.4 cubic feet with the rear seats down. The front passenger seat also folded flat, allowing for long items like surfboards.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered generous space for five adults, with a light and airy cabin feel. It provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Additional options included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen display. Standard features included Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Our test car had the larger touchscreen with Alexa Built-in, Spotify, and SiriusXM. It also had a 7-speaker Bose audio system and wireless smartphone charging. The system was user-friendly, with physical controls for easy navigation.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was feature-rich, with a learning curve, but offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The "Hey Mercedes" voice command system was improved, and the head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Chevrolet Trailblazer prioritized safety with 10 airbags, a rear-seat reminder, and Teen Driver technology. Chevy Safety Assist was standard, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional features included blind-spot warning and adaptive cruise control. The Trailblazer earned top crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Our GLE 450e had the optional Driver Assistance package, adding active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. These features were unobtrusive and effective during everyday driving.