2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 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 sporty yet understated look. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe, priced from $77,800, offered a luxurious interior with high-end materials like Nappa leather and brushed aluminum trim, creating a sophisticated ambiance. Despite its complexity, the interior design was sleek, though it required some acclimation to master the technology.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a classic design with subtle updates, such as narrower taillights, that kept it in line with its predecessor. The interior saw a more significant transformation, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and high-quality materials. While the GLC's design was elegant and timeless, it lacked the distinct personality that could set it apart from previous models. The returning GLC Coupe models retained their familiar exterior and interior, offering a blend of style and practicality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, EQ Boost, to enhance performance and fuel efficiency, achieving 18.5 mpg in real-world testing. The GLE's performance was further enhanced by a nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD, and various driving modes. The SUV's handling was agile, with a tight turning radius and responsive steering, though the brake pedal could be challenging to modulate.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It also featured a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, providing smooth acceleration and a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds. The GLC's suspension prioritized comfort, offering a smooth ride and a quiet cabin. The returning GLC Coupe models retained their previous engines, with the AMG GLC 43 Coupe delivering a sportier experience with a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine, producing 385 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, comfortably seating four adults, with power-adjustable, heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats. The rear seats provided ample legroom, and the cargo area offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 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 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustment options and synthetic leather upholstery. The interior provided sufficient storage space, though the piano black trim was prone to fingerprints. The rear seats accommodated average adults comfortably, with slightly limited headroom for taller passengers. The GLC's cargo capacity was 21.9 cubic feet, smaller than some rivals, but the rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 17.6 cubic feet and slightly impacted rear headroom.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester audio system. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video navigation, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC boasted an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and quick responses, though its lower placement on the dash could be distracting. The MBUX system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

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

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's crash-test results were not yet available, but the previous model received high ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and emergency stop assist. The GLC Coupe shared similar safety features, with additional cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.