2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Toyota RAV4

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, a descendant of the original 1996 model, continued to evolve from its "cute-ute" origins into a mature crossover SUV. Over five generations, it expanded in size and sophistication, becoming a sales leader in the United States. The 2022 model, part of a 2019 redesign, featured a design that blended into the current crossover landscape, with angular wheel arches and crisp lines contrasting with organic body shapes. Its exterior was marked by expressive headlights and a distinctive grille, while the interior boasted a layered dash with contrasting textures and a user-friendly touchscreen interface. The RAV4's design elements, such as a circuit-board-inspired pattern, added a unique touch to the cabin.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The GLE's design included clever details like Mercedes star logos on the grille and changes to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded elegance. Inside, the GLE 450e's cabin was a testament to luxury, 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 Toyota RAV4 offered three powertrains, including a gasoline-only model with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive as an option. Fuel economy for FWD models was 27-28 mpg city/35 mpg highway/30 mpg combined, while AWD models achieved slightly lower figures. The RAV4 Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter engine with an electric motor, delivering 217 horsepower and achieving 41 mpg city/38 mpg highway/40 mpg combined. The RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid boasted 302 horsepower and an electric-only range of 42 miles, with an efficiency rating of 94 MPGe combined. The RAV4's handling was car-like, with a four-wheel independent suspension and dynamic torque vectoring for improved cornering.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, producing 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds and offered an estimated electric-only range of 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads. The GLE's steering was sophisticated, making it maneuverable despite its size, and the AMG models offered even quicker reflexes.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4, classified as a small SUV, offered 37.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 69.8 cubic feet with the seats folded. It had a payload capacity of 1,050-1,230 pounds and could tow up to 3,500 pounds in certain configurations. Inside, the RAV4 provided ample space for four adults, with a comfortable front row and various storage options. The middle seat in the second row was less desirable but still usable.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. It offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to certain models and best suited for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Additional options included massaging front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 featured a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Higher trims offered a 9-inch touchscreen and an 11-speaker JBL audio system. The RAV4 Prime included advanced technology like a Qi-compatible wireless charging pad and a bird’s-eye view camera system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The GLE's head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Toyota RAV4 came with Toyota's Star Safety System, including features like enhanced vehicle stability control, traction control, and anti-lock braking. It also offered Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic emergency braking. The RAV4 received high safety ratings, including an IIHS Top Safety Pick and a five-star NHTSA rating.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured standard safety equipment such as blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. These systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving, providing an extra layer of safety.