2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet timeless design, characterized by its creased and symmetrical lines. This approach, while not overly exciting, appealed to those who appreciated simplicity and minimalism. The refreshed front styling aligned the Tiguan with Volkswagen's larger models, featuring a restyled grille with the new VW logo and an optional illuminated grille bar. Standard LED headlights, new nameplate lettering, and redesigned aluminum wheels added to its updated look. The Tiguan lineup was simplified into four trims, with prices ranging from $25,995 to $36,995, plus a destination charge. The SEL R-Line model, with its sporty appearance and Atlantic Blue Metallic paint, stood out with its 18-inch alloy wheels and upscale interior featuring leather upholstery and ambient lighting.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent subtle exterior changes that were easy to miss. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and slight modifications were made to the headlights and taillights. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, looked particularly striking. The interior exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior color choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission transferred power to the front wheels, with an optional 4Motion AWD system available. The Tiguan offered various driving modes, including Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual, with additional settings for AWD models. Despite its enjoyable driving experience, the Tiguan's engine exhibited some turbo lag, and its fuel economy was modest, with an EPA rating of 24 mpg combined. The Tiguan's ride and handling were satisfactory for everyday driving, but it lacked the excitement some Volkswagen enthusiasts might seek.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, from turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines to a powerful twin-turbo V8 in the AMG GLE 63 S, producing 603 horsepower. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes, and the GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. While official EPA estimates were unavailable, the GLE 450e's electric-only range was estimated at 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension offered a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan stood out among compact crossovers with its spacious interior, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered a standard third-row seat in FWD models, while 4Motion models lacked this feature. The SEL R-Line trim provided comfortable leather-wrapped front seats with power adjustments, heating, and ventilation. The second row was roomy, accommodating adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with 37.6 cubic feet behind the rear seats and a maximum of 73.4 cubic feet with the seats folded down. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard posed usability challenges.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e's interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof. Cargo space behind the second row measured 33 cubic feet, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. While the GLE offered an optional third-row seat, it was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 models and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with a range of comfort features, including ventilated front seats, a Burmester audio system, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital instrumentation, with the SEL R-Line offering a 10.25-inch Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available in most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. However, the natural voice recognition system required a subscription and was not active during testing. The Tiguan offered a range of Car-Net plans, including remote access and safety features, with additional costs for certain upgrades. The SEL R-Line trim included a Park Assist system for autonomous parking.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment display. The system was user-friendly, though it required some time to master its features. 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused issues, such as unexpected volume changes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard safety features, including Front Assist and Side Assist. The IQ Drive collection of advanced driving assistance systems included Travel Assist and Emergency Assist. Travel Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, while Emergency Assist could bring the vehicle to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements aimed to enhance safety further.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. These systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety when needed.