2022 GMC Yukon vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 GMC Yukon was a chrome lover's dream. Even the base SLE model had enough shiny accents to give it a premium look. As you moved up to the Denali trim, the chrome became even more prominent, especially with the massive, multi-dimensional grille that resembled an industrial-sized cheese grater. This design choice gave the Denali a unique and commanding presence. The AT4 trim, aimed at off-road enthusiasts, featured a dark grille, skid plate, and red recovery hooks, giving it a rugged look. Inside, the Yukon offered a spacious and tastefully crafted cabin with standard seating for eight, or seven with second-row captain's chairs. The Denali trim boasted four exclusive interior designs, including the luxurious Teak/Light Shale color combo.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was hard to notice at first glance. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights had minor updates. The GLE 450e test vehicle stood out with its Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded class and luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The cabin offered a light and airy feel, with excellent outward visibility. The GLE also provided a range of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engine options, including a 5.3-liter V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, a 6.2-liter V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine with 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Denali trim came standard with the 6.2-liter V8, providing an 8,200-pound tow rating. The Yukon's independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, especially for third-row passengers. However, the ride could still be bouncy over rough pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension enhanced ride comfort and off-road capability.

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 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e could operate in electric mode at speeds up to 87 mph, with an estimated EV range of 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth and composed ride, even on rough roads.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered ample space for passengers and cargo. The redesign increased third-row legroom by more than 10 inches, making it more comfortable for adults. Cargo space behind the third row also increased to 25.5 cubic feet. The second-row seats folded flat, and power-folding options made accessing the third row easier. The Denali trim featured a power-sliding center console with hidden storage, and power-retractable assist steps for easier entry and exit. The pushbutton transmission controls took some getting used to but eventually became second nature.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided plenty of space for first- and second-row passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 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 numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added even more luxury touches, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came standard with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center, a 10.2-inch touchscreen with Google Built-In, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Bose 14-speaker audio system. The Denali trim featured a 15-inch multi-color head-up display and a rear-seat media system with dual 12.6-inch touchscreens. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the Bose audio system's sound quality was somewhat disappointing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment display. 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 and convenience, though the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came with GMC's Pro Safety suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic high-beam headlights. The Pro Safety Plus package added blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear park assist. The Yukon received a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash protection and three stars for rollover resistance.

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