2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, presented a balanced aesthetic that was neither offensive nor overly dramatic. Despite its resemblance to an athletic sneaker from certain angles, the GLE Coupe managed to maintain a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the vehicle was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech feel, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 offered a more subtle and less flashy look compared to its competitors. The base model avoided gaudy grilles and excessive chrome, presenting a refined exterior. Higher trims like the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450 maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated into the upright dashboard, providing a high-quality yet subdued interior.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added extra power and improved fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg combined. The GLE Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes like Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes enhanced its driving dynamics, making it nimble and composed in urban settings and on highways. However, the brake pedal was difficult to modulate in traffic, and the suspension was less forgiving on rough roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 came with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost system. The electric motor added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts, improving performance and efficiency. The GLS 450's air suspension provided a comfortable ride but exhibited poor body control, making it less refined in corners. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading. Overall, the six-cylinder engine offered smooth and adequate power, but the suspension could have been more refined.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe could technically seat five people, but it was more comfortable for four. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, making them comfortable for long drives. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo space was generous at 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. However, the GLE Coupe offered less space compared to the regular GLE, despite its higher price.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easier access to the third row, and the long wheelbase provided excellent legroom. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The air suspension made loading and unloading cargo easier, but the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. However, the touchpad on the center console was easy to activate inadvertently. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D audio system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 also came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was effective, but the touchpad controller was cumbersome. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature available in other Mercedes models, and the embedded navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre Safe Sound. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 more safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, but crash-test results were unavailable.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre Safe. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.