2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee had a familiar design, echoing Jeep's traditional aesthetics while also resembling the previous year's Grand Cherokee L. This new model was a two-row version, offering a sportier and more compact alternative. Available in various trims such as Laredo, Altitude, Limited, Trailhawk, Overland, Summit, and Summit Reserve, the Grand Cherokee catered to a wide range of preferences and budgets, with prices starting at $37,390 and going up to $63,365, excluding the $1,795 destination charge. The SUV's design paid homage to the classic 1963 Wagoneer, featuring a forward-leaning grille, lowered beltline, and tapered rear roof pillars. Inside, the Grand Cherokee offered a range of options from basic cloth seats in the Laredo trim to luxurious quilted leather in the Summit Reserve.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was hard to notice at first glance. The front grille featured Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights were slightly updated. The GLE 450e model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, stood out for its stylish appearance. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally impressive, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a variety of interior color choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and luxurious cabin experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a choice between rear-wheel drive (RWD) and four-wheel drive (4WD), with either a V6 or V8 engine. The standard 3.6-liter V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, with a towing capacity of 6,200 pounds. The available 5.7-liter V8 engine delivered 357 horsepower and 390 pound-feet of torque, increasing the towing capacity to 7,200 pounds. Three different 4WD systems were available: Quadra-Trac I, Quadra-Trac II, and Quadra-Drive II, each offering varying levels of off-road capability. The Trailhawk trim, in particular, was equipped with advanced off-roading features such as an electronic locking rear differential, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain driving modes.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as a twin-turbo V8 in the AMG GLE 63 S, which produced 603 horsepower. The GLE 450e model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, generating a total of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e also offered an estimated electric-only driving range of 40 miles and could operate as an EV at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes. The GLE's suspension was highly capable, absorbing bumps and maintaining a quiet cabin even on rough roads.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee provided a comfortable experience for both the driver and front passenger, with higher trims offering heated and ventilated seats, a heated steering wheel, and front seat massagers. Visibility was improved, especially for off-roading, and the available panoramic sunroof added an airy feel to the cabin. However, rear-seat room was tight for adults, and the cargo space behind the back seat was 37.7 cubic feet, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE also offered an optional third-row seat, though it was only suitable for young children. Standard comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The GLE 450e also came with additional options such as massaging front seats, a head-up display, and heated rear seats.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee was packed with technology, including a head-up display, Night Vision system, camera-based rearview mirror, and multiple touchscreens for information and entertainment. The Uconnect 5 infotainment system offered improved responsiveness and over-the-air updates. Most trims came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen, while higher trims featured a 10.1-inch display. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a 19-speaker McIntosh audio system were also available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system could be controlled via touch commands, a control pad, or 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 GLE also offered a head-up display and augmented reality navigation, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Cherokee came with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) and a safety cage composed of high-strength steel and aluminum. Features included Intersection Collision Assist, Active Driving Assist, and a hands-free version of Active Driving Assist expected in 2022. The new Grand Cherokee aimed to improve crash protection compared to its predecessor.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE also offered a robust 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 and effective during everyday driving.