2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

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, with a broad, rounded face and expansive, unadorned sheet metal. A vertical accent strip under the mirrors distinguished the new model from its predecessor. The most notable change was at the rear, where the Range Rover replaced its square taillights with sleek LED strips integrated into a darker trim. The SUV maintained its imposing presence, emphasizing its size rather than attempting to disguise it. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin was simplified with fewer buttons and a larger, tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. Premium leather and rich wood trim adorned the interior, exuding luxury. The Range Rover's solid feel and quiet cabin added to its premium appeal, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes that were easy to miss. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor updates. LED headlights were standard, with optional multi-beam LED headlights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, stood out. The interior of the GLE 450e 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, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin. The GLE's cabin was one of the most refined in its segment, offering a blend of style and comfort.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: the base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and the P530 with 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 a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, impressive for a nearly 6,000-pound SUV. The Range Rover's handling was surprisingly agile, 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 off-road, thanks to its Terrain Response system, which optimized traction. Despite its size, the Range Rover offered a smooth and quiet ride, making it one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The top-of-the-line AMG GLE 63 S featured a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower, delivering sports car-like speed. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced a combined 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds, offering swift performance. The GLE 450e's electric mode provided an estimated 40-mile range and operated at highway speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections with ease. The GLE's sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable, and the AMG models offered even sharper handling. The GLE 450e's performance exceeded expectations, providing a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. Front seats were cushioned for long-distance comfort, with available massage functions. Storage options included two glove boxes, a wireless charging pad, and a large center console bin. The second row provided generous 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 folded. The split tailgate and air suspension height adjustment facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered comfortable seating for five, with a light and airy cabin. Outward visibility was excellent, aided by large windows. The GLE 450e provided 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third row was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450, suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added features like a Burmester audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display. Additional options included a panoramic sunroof, soft-close doors, and heated rear seats.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a 13-inch touchscreen with the new 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. Other tech features included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 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. The steering wheel's touch-sensitive controls required careful handling to avoid accidental volume changes.

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

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. 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.