2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Lexus RX

The 2022 Lexus RX, available in base 350, F Sport, and L trim levels, maintained its modern and sporty design from the 2020 facelift. It offered a hybrid model, the RX 450h, and seating for five in the RX 350 and F Sport, while the L trim provided a three-row, 7-passenger option. The RX stood out in the midsize luxury crossover segment with its aggressive styling, characterized by razor-sharp character lines and angular features reminiscent of a boomerang. The F Sport trim, the most athletic in appearance, featured 20-inch wheels, black-housing outside mirrors, and a unique front fascia. The interior mirrored the exterior's luxury appeal, with F Sport models adding sporty elements like Scored Aluminum trim and NuLuxe synthetic leather. However, the center stack felt dated, and the NuLuxe seats lacked comfort, with limited lumbar support and challenging driving position adjustments.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, despite its subtle exterior makeover, impressed with its clever design details like the Mercedes star logos on the grille. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, showcased a handsome appearance. The interior exuded class and luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior color choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin. The GLE's sophisticated steering and maneuverability made it feel easy to handle, while the available AMG models provided quicker reflexes. Overall, the GLE's suave and sophisticated driving manners gave it an edge over many competitors.

The 2022 Lexus RX 350 came with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, while the hybrid RX 450h combined a V6 with two electric motors for a total of 308 hp. All RX models featured an eight-speed automatic transmission, with FWD standard on the RX 350 and AWD available. Despite its F Sport designation, the RX lacked true sporty performance, with an engine note more akin to a turbocharged four-cylinder and unimpressive acceleration. The F Sport Handling package added features like an adaptive variable suspension and Sport+ drive mode, but the driving experience remained largely unchanged between modes. The RX excelled in comfort and cabin quietness, offering a compliant ride and isolated road noise. Fuel efficiency for the RX 350 was 20 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 combined, while the RX 450h hybrid achieved 30 mpg combined.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, delivered 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for highway speeds up to 87 mph, with a seamless transition between gas and electric power. The suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, and the GLE's sophisticated steering made it maneuverable. The GLE 450e's performance exceeded expectations, offering a nearly flawless driving experience with a quiet cabin and supple suspension.

The 2022 Lexus RX offered 99.8 cubic feet of passenger volume in its two-row configuration, comfortably accommodating four adults. The three-row L models, with a 2/3/2 seating configuration, provided limited space for anything beyond groceries. Cargo space in the standard RX was 16.0 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 32.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The three-row models offered 7.45 cubic feet with all seats upright, increasing to 58.48 cubic feet with both back rows down. The RX featured thoughtful interior elements like a smartphone slot, adjustable-height cup holder, and a flat-bottomed cargo net.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the 40/20/40 split-folding second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat, available in the GLE 350 and GLE 450, was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with comfort features like power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Additional options included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Lexus RX featured an 8-inch touchscreen display, with a 12.3-inch version available. Despite being moved closer to the driver, the touchscreens were ergonomically unfriendly, with a lip obstructing access to icons. The touchpad was hypersensitive and unintuitive, leading to frustration. The RX offered tech features like six USB ports, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration, wireless charging, and a WiFi hotspot. The Lexus App allowed for remote engine start and vehicle settings personalization.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and infotainment system. The MBUX 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 occasionally caused issues, but overall, the GLE's technology was user-friendly and advanced.

The 2022 Lexus RX came with the Lexus Safety System 2.0+, including adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and a pre-collision system. Additional features were blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a head-up display. The RX was a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS with optional triple-beam LED headlights but missed the top-tier "plus" designation. The NHTSA rated it four stars overall, with five stars in side crash tests.

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 features like active blind-spot assist and adaptive cruise control. The safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, providing an extra layer of protection without overreacting to everyday driving situations.