2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe featured a Selenite Gray paint job, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, giving it a sporty yet somewhat sneaker-like appearance from certain angles. Despite the absence of the V8-powered AMG GLE 63 S Coupe, the GLE 53 Coupe still offered a luxurious interior with Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech feel, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimation.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes to the headlights and taillights being the most noticeable updates. The GLE 450e test vehicle sported a Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which enhanced its overall look. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally luxurious, 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 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel, resulting in an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in combined driving. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, and AMG Dynamic Select driving modes. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes further enhanced its performance, making it nimble and composed in various driving conditions.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, as well as the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission sent power to all four wheels, allowing the GLE 450e to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric-only driving range was estimated at 40 miles, and it could operate as an EV at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe could accommodate up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, while the back seat provided ample legroom. The cargo space measured 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Available comfort upgrades included heated rear seats, a four-zone automatic climate control system, and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

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 second row, which compared favorably with rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. Standard comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The test vehicle also featured options like massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and heated rear seats.

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

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE also featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was easy to operate, though it required some time to learn its various menus and capabilities. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing minor annoyances.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz 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 additional safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe was based on the standard GLE, which received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of standard safety features, such as 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 during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety when needed.