2023 Lexus RX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a design that was neither offensive nor groundbreaking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels giving it a sleek, athletic appearance reminiscent of a sporty sneaker. Despite the absence of the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe variant, the AMG GLE 53 Coupe maintained a luxurious interior with high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and brushed aluminum trim, creating a sophisticated ambiance. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a modern touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimation for new users.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX offered a refreshed design with a shorter height, broader width, and longer wheelbase, yet maintained the same overall length as its predecessor. The reduction in rear overhang and softer design lines contributed to a more compact appearance, while the signature spindle-style grille and upswept body sides added a modern flair. Inside, the RX featured a thoroughly modern interior with fewer buttons and knobs, digital instrumentation, and a choice of touchscreen displays. The quality of materials was high, with options for genuine leather and simulated suede, ensuring a luxurious feel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system, delivered robust acceleration and a dynamic driving experience. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed, while the AMG Dynamic Select system offered various driving modes to suit different conditions. Despite its size, the GLE Coupe felt nimble and composed, with the AMG Active Ride Control suspension providing a comfortable ride on most surfaces.

The 2023 Lexus RX, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. While it offered less horsepower than the previous V6, it provided better torque and fuel economy. The RX 350 Luxury trim displayed occasional torque steer and excess body motion, while the F Sport Handling trim felt more secure with its adaptive damping suspension. The RX 350 AWD accelerated to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds, and the fuel economy was slightly lower than expected, with results of 21.8 mpg.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats were highly adjustable, with heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing comfort on long drives. The back seat offered ample legroom, and the cargo space was generous, with 27.5 cubic feet available and 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Lexus RX provided a comfortable interior with sport seat bolsters in the F Sport Handling package, offering better support during spirited driving. The RX 350 Luxury trim featured semi-aniline premium leather upholstery and ten-way power-adjustable front seats, while the F Sport Handling trim had NuLuxe simulated leather seats. The back seat was roomy, with good leg support, though taller passengers might find headroom tight. The cargo space was improved, with 29.6 cubic feet available and 46.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition and augmented video for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided excellent sound quality, though the touchpad on the center console could be inadvertently activated.

The 2023 Lexus RX introduced the new Lexus Interface infotainment system, available with a 9.8-inch or 14-inch touchscreen display. It included wireless smartphone integration, satellite radio, and connected services. The Intelligent Assistant offered natural voice recognition, though it occasionally provided inaccurate results. User profiles allowed for personalized settings, and the Mark Levinson premium sound system delivered excellent audio quality. The system's primary drawback was the inability to view multiple data panels simultaneously.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe was based on the standard GLE, which received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Lexus RX featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driving assistance systems like motorcycle detection and evasive steering assistance. New semi-autonomous technologies included Proactive Driving Assist, Traffic Jam Assist, and Advanced Park Assist. While LSS+ 3.0 was impressive, it had some flaws, such as unmarked adaptive cruise controls and non-predictive curve-speed reduction technology.