2022 Land Rover Range Rover vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent a subtle evolution rather than a radical redesign. Its front and side profiles remained largely unchanged from the previous generation, characterized by a broad, rounded face and expansive, unadorned sheet metal. A notable update was the vertical accent strip under the mirrors, replacing the old L-shaped trim. The rear of the new Range Rover saw the most significant change, with thin LED strips integrated into a darker trim element replacing the old square taillights. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. The materials used were of excellent quality, with premium leather and rich wood trim elements, providing a luxurious feel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a sporty and stylish appearance. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sleek look, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe was as luxurious as expected, featuring high-end materials and a high-tech appearance with dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design. The cabin was adorned with Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim, creating a sophisticated atmosphere. Ambient lighting added to the driving pleasure, especially at night. The interior design cleverly masked the vehicle's complexity, though it required some acclimation to operate the technology with minimal distraction.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrain options. The base P400 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid component, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. The P530 upgrade boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive. The P400 powertrain provided effortless acceleration, with Land Rover estimating a 0 to 60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile for its size, with well-managed body roll and a calm, composed driving experience. Standard rear-wheel steering enhanced maneuverability, making it easy to navigate tight spaces. The Range Rover excelled in off-road capability, thanks to its Terrain Response system, while maintaining a smooth and quiet ride on the road.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel. The GLE Coupe's performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road. The GLE Coupe's handling was nimble and composed, with speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering and AMG Active Ride Control suspension. The SUV's performance was impressive, especially in Sport+ mode, where it demonstrated its capabilities on challenging roads. However, its size and weight were noticeable on tight roads, and the performance exhaust system was loud in Sport+ mode.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats were generously cushioned, with available massage functions for added comfort. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row offered plenty of space for taller passengers, with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible with a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space behind the third row was 17.1 cubic feet, expanding to 43.1 cubic feet with the third row folded, and up to 93 cubic feet with the second row down. The split tailgate facilitated loading, and the air suspension could be lowered for easier access.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe accommodated up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Forward visibility was fine, but rear visibility was challenging, necessitating the use of available cameras. The back seat provided ample room for adult passengers, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated armrests, and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new 13-inch touchscreen with the Pivi Pro infotainment system, offering sharper graphics and quicker responses. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a wireless charging pad. The Meridian audio system delivered impressive sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade available. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and remote control via a smartphone app.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot monitor, lane-keep assist, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. These features performed well, with the surround-view cameras proving especially helpful off-road. However, some rivals offered additional safety features not available on the Range Rover.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitoring system. It also featured Pre Safe Sound, which emitted a "pink noise" tone before a collision to protect hearing. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, with impressive lane-keeping assistance technology.