2023 Toyota RAV4 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe exhibited a non-offensive design despite being a part of the often divisive SUV coupe category. Its Selenite Gray paint, complemented by 22-inch forged aluminum wheels and ample polished brightwork, provided an aesthetically pleasing look. However, it evoked the image of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. With a base price of $77,800, and a destination charge of $1,050, our test vehicle surpassed $100,000 with various add-ons. The interior embodied luxury, boasting high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and brushed aluminum trim, which offered a contrast to the otherwise dark cabin. The ambient lighting added a pleasant driving experience at night. However, the complexity of the high-tech features and the lack of traditional control markings created a steep learning curve for new users.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota RAV4 adhered to a rugged yet practical design. With six trim levels, buyers had the flexibility to choose from the budget-friendly RAV4 LE to the feature-rich Limited trim, including off-road-centric Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims. The Adventure trim, which we tested, featured a more aggressive grille, blacked-out wheels, and additional black cladding around the wheel arches. Inside, orange accents adorned the seats and center console, providing a sporty aesthetic. The RAV4 also offered front-row passengers a frameless rearview mirror and practical storage options, enhancing its utility over luxury.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 hp at 6,100 rpm and 384 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 rpm and 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system provided additional power and fuel efficiency, although our test vehicle achieved an 18.5 mpg combined fuel economy, slightly below the EPA’s estimated 19 mpg. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered various driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, each optimizing performance differently. In urban settings, the GLE Coupe’s speed-sensitive power steering and tight turning radius facilitated easy maneuverability. On curvy mountain roads, the AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes proved their worth, although the SUV’s size and weight were apparent.

For the 2023 Toyota RAV4, a single powertrain option was available for non-hybrid models. Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generated 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup provided adequate but not exhilarating acceleration. The Adventure and TRD Off-Road trims featured standard AWD, with the latter offering a more capable TRD-tuned suspension and Falken All-Terrain tires. Despite these enhancements, the Adventure trim’s performance was more suited to light off-roading. The RAV4’s MacPherson independent front suspension and multi-link rear suspension ensured a comfortable ride, although it lacked the refinement found in the GLE Coupe.

The Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, although four adults would be more comfortable. The front sport-bolstered seats featured heating, ventilation, and massage functions, with numerous power adjustments for optimal comfort. Rear visibility was limited, necessitating the use of available camera systems. The back seat offered ample legroom, and the cargo area provided 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Despite its higher price, the GLE Coupe sacrificed some cargo space compared to the standard GLE model.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4, designed to seat five, offered 37.7 inches of headroom in the front row and 39.5 inches in the rear seats with the moonroof. Legroom measured 41 inches in the front and 37.8 inches in the second row, making it competitive with the CR-V but less spacious than the Forester in the back. Cargo space was a strong point for the RAV4, providing 37.5 cubic feet behind the second row, expandable to 69.8 cubic feet with the rear seats down. These figures positioned it above the Mazda CX-5 but below the Honda CR-V in terms of storage capacity.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe came standard with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included a navigation system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. The Burmester surround-sound audio system delivered premium sound quality. MBUX’s intuitive interface and natural voice recognition technology enhanced user experience, though the touchpad on the center console posed some usability challenges. Optional upgrades included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and a 3D high-end surround-sound system.

For 2023, the Toyota RAV4 received a significant technology update. An 8.0-inch touchscreen was standard, with higher trims featuring a 10.5-inch screen. The latest infotainment system supported over-the-air updates and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, along with enhanced voice command capabilities. Our test vehicle, the RAV4 Adventure, included the upgraded multimedia system with a 10.5-inch screen and an 11-speaker JBL Premium audio system. A 7-inch driver-information display was standard, while higher trims could get a 12.3-inch display.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was well-equipped with safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound feature emitted a tone to protect hearing during an impact. The optional Driver Assistance Package added 15 advanced systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. Emergency Call Service provided an added layer of security. Though crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5, including lane-departure warning with steering assist, automatic emergency braking, automatic high-beam LED headlights, and a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection. Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available starting from the XLE trim. The adaptive cruise control system included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 received a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, indicating its strong performance in crash tests.