2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, particularly in the mid-trim Limited with the S Appearance Package, presented a sleek and modern exterior. This package added body-colored door handles and exterior mirrors, a gloss black surround on the grille, and black accents, all complemented by 18-inch wheels with a "Foreshadow" finish. The split grille was flanked by standard LED headlamps, and the LED tail lamps spanned the rear width, enhancing its visual appeal. Despite the minivan's practical nature, it offered a sophisticated interior with Nappa leather seats and a few sweeping lines on the dash. However, the interior was predominantly dark unless upgraded to the top trim. The controls, including chunky HVAC and audio knobs, were user-friendly, though their proximity to the transmission selector dial could cause confusion.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured subtle yet impactful aesthetic changes, such as sharper headlights and taillights, black fender flares, and chrome inserts on the grille. The optional AMG Line package added a sporty touch with a distinct grille and 19-inch standard wheels, with an option for 21-inch wheels. Inside, the GLE maintained a classic Mercedes-Benz feel, with leather and soft-touch surfaces, though not as futuristic as the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but when paired with Bahia Brown seating, it evoked a retro vibe. Opting for lighter leather could remedy this design choice.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid combined a 3.6-liter V6 engine with a 16-kWh battery and two electric motors, making it the only minivan available as a plug-in hybrid. It boasted an EPA rating of 32 miles of all-electric range, 520 miles of total range, 82 MPGe, and 30 mpg combined fuel economy. In practice, it exceeded these numbers, achieving 33 miles of electric range and over 550 miles of total range. Charging the battery on a Level 2 home charger took just two hours, while a standard outlet predicted a 14-hour charge time. The Pacifica defaulted to all-electric mode, which was efficient in city driving but quickly depleted on highways. The hybrid model was front-wheel drive only, lacked a spare tire, and couldn't be equipped with a towing package, unlike its gasoline-only counterpart. With 260 horsepower and 230 lb-ft of torque, it offered adequate highway passing power, though not as much as the non-hybrid version.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e featured a new plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. Despite its power, it was slightly slower to 60 mph than the GLE 450 due to the weight of its 23.3-kWh battery. The battery provided an impressive 48 miles of all-electric range, with real-world tests showing 55 miles. The GLE 450e allowed drivers to choose between all-electric, hybrid, and battery hold modes, with a seamless transition to the gas engine when needed. While the Sport mode didn't significantly enhance driving dynamics, the GLE offered a comfortable commute. The 11-kW onboard charger enabled a full charge in under three hours on a Level 2 charger, and it could also accept a 60-kW DC fast charge for road trips.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered family-friendly features like the FamCam interior camera, allowing parents to monitor second and third-row passengers. The heated and cooled front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, provided comfort, though second-row seats were low for taller passengers. The third row was spacious enough for adults, but competitors like the Honda Odyssey and Toyota Sienna offered more legroom. The Pacifica's flat-fold Stow 'n Go seats were unavailable in the hybrid model due to battery placement, but cargo space remained at 32.3 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87.5 cubic feet with seats folded, and 140.5 cubic feet with all seats down. However, the Kia Carnival and Honda Odyssey offered more overall space.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450e compensated for its driving dynamics with luxurious interior features. Standard heated front seats were enhanced with ventilation and massage functions, while heated and cooled cup holders added convenience. The cabin was quiet, even on noisy highways, and the Burmester stereo system provided an excellent audio experience. However, the non-extending sun visors were a minor annoyance. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist for easier trailer handling. Cargo space was ample, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running Uconnect 5, known for its user-friendly interface and crisp graphics. It supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and dual Bluetooth connections. The optional rear seat entertainment system added two 10-inch screens for second-row passengers, offering games and streaming content, though its value was questionable given the prevalence of personal devices. Numerous USB-A and USB-C ports, along with 12-volt and 115-volt outlets, ensured devices stayed charged.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the MBUX infotainment system, though it lacked the larger touchscreen found in other Mercedes models. The menu was easy to navigate, with a touchpad on the center console and voice control via "Hey, Mercedes." The augmented reality navigation system provided helpful overlays, and the off-road page offered detailed information for enthusiasts. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, but connectivity issues with the iPhone were noted. USB-C ports provided ample charging options.

The 2023 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, pedestrian automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, rear parking assist, and adaptive cruise control. The forward collision warning system was particularly effective, and the adaptive cruise control provided smooth operation. However, features like parallel parking assistance required additional packages or the top trim. While the 2023 model hadn't been rated by the NHTSA, the 2022 version received a five-star overall safety rating, and the IIHS gave it Good marks, with some exceptions.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted advanced driver aids, with blind-spot monitoring as standard. The optional Driver Assistance Package Plus added active blind-spot monitoring, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control with steering assist, and lane-change assist, though it increased the price by nearly $2,000. The GLE received a five-star side crash rating and a four-star rollover rating from the NHTSA. The IIHS awarded it top scores in crashworthiness, crash avoidance, and seat belts, with an Acceptable headlight rating for models with the Digital Light package.