2023 Volvo XC40 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 53 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 touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC40 retained its distinctive, flat-roofed profile, which was very SUV-like and aligned with Volvo’s clean design language. The 2023 model received updates such as pixelated “Thor’s Hammer” headlights, a more angular front bumper, and new wheel designs. The XC40’s interior continued with a minimalist design, featuring thin air vents, scalloped door handles, and speaker grilles. The Ultimate trim added luxurious touches like a panoramic moonroof and an Orrefors crystal shift knob, although the all-black interior felt somewhat utilitarian.

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, enhanced by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system called EQ Boost. This setup provided robust acceleration and a combined fuel economy of 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the AMG Active Ride Control suspension ensured a smooth ride. However, the optional AMG Performance braking system made smooth stops challenging in traffic.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 introduced mild-hybrid powertrains, with a 48-volt electrical system and a 13-hp integrated starter generator. The base B4 powertrain combined this system with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 197 hp and 221 lb-ft of torque, while the B5 variant offered 247 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. Both powertrains used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B4 being FWD and the B5 AWD. The B5 model accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.1 seconds. The XC40 Recharge, with its two electric motors, produced 402 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds and an EPA-rated 223-mile range.

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 ideal for long drives. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo space was generous, with 27.5 cubic feet expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone automatic climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Volvo XC40, while compact, offered reasonable space for its class. It provided ample rear-seat headroom and shoulder room, making the second-row middle seat usable. Cargo space was 20 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 46.9 cubic feet with them folded. The XC40 also featured innovative interior storage solutions, such as scalloped door panels and a large center console storage bin. A power tailgate and keyless entry were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, a navigation system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D surround-sound system.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 adopted an Android-based infotainment system, using Google apps for navigation and voice recognition. It included a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 9-inch touchscreen. The Ultimate trim featured a 13-speaker Harman Kardon audio system and multiple USB-C ports. The system’s graphics were pleasing, but the lack of analog controls made some functions less intuitive.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 more systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe’s safety systems were highly refined and effective, although the route-based speed adaptation function could be irritating. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Volvo XC40 came with standard safety features like lane keep assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims added front and side parking sensors, a 360-degree camera system, adaptive cruise control, and Pilot Assist. The XC40 received top ratings from the IIHS in most crash tests, although it dropped to an “Acceptable” rating in the updated side-impact test. The NHTSA awarded the gasoline XC40 a five-star overall safety rating.