2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Ford Expedition

The 2022 Ford Expedition underwent significant updates, featuring exterior styling revisions and enhanced infotainment technology. The front of the vehicle showcased a new grille, headlights, and bumper, while the rear was updated with revised taillights, tailgate trim, and a new bumper. Redesigned wheels were introduced across the model lineup, adding to the refreshed appearance. The Expedition was available in various trims, including the XL STX, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, and Platinum, with prices ranging from just over $55,000 to nearly $84,000. A new Timberline trim catered to off-road enthusiasts, offering features like standard four-wheel drive, all-terrain tires, and off-roading technology. Inside, the Expedition boasted a redesigned dashboard with the new Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, the latter featuring a 15.5-inch touchscreen display. The Limited Stealth Edition, with its leather-lined interior and advanced tech, provided a luxurious experience despite some F-150 pickup-grade plastic trim.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes that were not immediately noticeable. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights were slightly altered. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, scored well for its appearance. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. The cabin offered a choice of 10 interior colors and five trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust look. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with excellent outward visibility, making it a strong contender in its segment.

The 2022 Ford Expedition was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 engine, producing 380 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. The engine drove the rear wheels through a 10-speed automatic transmission, with an option for four-wheel drive. Fuel economy ranged from 17 to 19 mpg in combined driving, and the Expedition could tow between 9,000 and 9,300 pounds. The Expedition's powertrain delivered an addictive performance, with a signature sound different from a traditional V8. However, the fuel economy was a concern, with an observed 16.2 mpg during testing. The Expedition's driving dynamics were generally impressive, though the Stealth Edition's sport-tuned suspension could have benefited from adaptive damping to reduce harshness. Despite its size, the Expedition was easy to park, thanks to excellent visibility and parking sensors. On the highway, it excelled, providing a comfortable and quiet ride.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines and a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission sent power to all four wheels, allowing the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric mode provided an estimated 40-mile range and could operate at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, though the regenerative brakes occasionally felt numb. The GLE 450e's suspension absorbed road imperfections well, and its steering made it maneuverable despite its size. The GLE's performance was nearly flawless, with a quiet cabin and sophisticated driving manners.

The 2022 Ford Expedition offered exceptional comfort, with power running boards for easy entry and exit. The interior provided ample space for passengers, with power-adjustable, leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs offered plenty of legroom, while the third-row seat provided outstanding leg support. Cargo space behind the third row measured 19.3 cubic feet, with the option to fold seats for more storage. The Expedition Max variant offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a spacious and comfortable cabin, with seating for five. The GLE 450e's light beige upholstery contributed to a light and airy feel, and outward visibility was excellent. Behind the second row, the GLE offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space. The GLE's interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added luxury features like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Ford Expedition featured the Sync 4 and Sync 4A infotainment systems, with the latter offering a 15.5-inch touchscreen. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, FordPass Connect, and a connected navigation system. Higher trims added features like SiriusXM satellite radio and Bang & Olufsen premium sound systems. The Sync 4A system had some quirks, such as accidental activation of the defroster function and issues with Apple CarPlay. The Expedition also offered Pro Trailer Backup Assist 2.0 for easier trailer reversing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. The system supported touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls could inadvertently adjust the music volume.

The 2022 Ford Expedition came with Ford Co-Pilot360 safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and a surround-view camera system. The lane-centering assist had some issues, such as steering the vehicle to the side of the lane in heavy traffic. Ford's BlueCruise hands-free driving technology was available, providing a semi-autonomous driving experience on approved highways.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. These features were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety.