2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 offered two distinct models: the 2.5 S with a standard 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and the 2.5 Turbo, which boasted a turbocharged version capable of up to 250 horsepower. Both models featured a six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive. The CX-30's design was characterized by a long hood, dramatic flanks, and a stubby rear end, giving it a nose-heavy appearance. Despite its appealing design, the excessive gray body cladding detracted from its overall aesthetic. Inside, the CX-30's cabin was upscale and elegant, with quality materials and a tasteful combination of off-white leather, chocolate brown, and black accents, resembling an entry-level luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE's aesthetic changes were subtle but impactful, with sharper headlights and taillights, black fender flares, and chrome grille inserts. The optional AMG Line package added a sporty touch to the exterior. Inside, the GLE's cabin was luxurious, featuring leather and soft-touch surfaces, though not as futuristic as the newer EQ models. The open-pore walnut trim was visually appealing, but the Bahia Brown seating surfaces in the test model gave it a dated look. The GLE coupe, available only in the Mercedes-AMG guise, offered a sportier design with reduced interior space.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 2.5 S models gained five additional horsepower, totaling 191 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque from the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This improvement resulted in a better EPA-rated fuel economy of 29 mpg in combined driving. The 2.5 Turbo model, when fueled with premium gas, delivered 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque, while regular gas reduced these figures slightly. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. The CX-30's eight inches of ground clearance and Off-Road traction assist function made it suitable for light off-road adventures. However, the suspension struggled with speed bumps, and the small 12.7-gallon fuel tank limited its range.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered various powertrains, including the entry-level GLE 350 with 255 horsepower, the mid-line GLE 450 with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, and the top-tier GLE 580 with a 4.0-liter V8. The test vehicle, the 450e, featured a plug-in hybrid powertrain with a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine, producing 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque in hybrid mode. The 450e's 23.3-kWh battery allowed for an impressive 48 miles of all-electric range, with a seamless transition to the gas engine when needed. While the GLE's Sport mode didn't significantly enhance driving dynamics, it provided a comfortable and efficient commute. The 450e's 11-kW onboard charger enabled quick charging, and it could also accept a 60-kW DC fast charge for road trips.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30 featured standard dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a power sunroof. The Turbos added a heated steering wheel. While the driver's seat was comfortable, the front passenger seat offered only four-way manual adjustment. Rear passengers had limited legroom, but the seatbacks were padded for comfort. The CX-30 provided reasonable storage space, with a center armrest bin, glove compartment, and door panel bins. The power liftgate revealed 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in interior luxuries, offering heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, heated and cooled cup holders, customizable ambient lighting, and a panoramic sunroof. The cabin remained quiet on highways, and the Burmester stereo system enhanced the ride. However, the sun visors did not extend, which was a minor inconvenience. The GLE could tow 7,700 pounds and featured Trailer Maneuvering Assist technology. Cargo space was generous, with 31.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2023 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect infotainment system had three significant flaws: the lack of a touchscreen display, non-conversational voice-recognition technology, and the absence of a tuning knob. The system required quick glances to operate, causing driver distraction. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available, the system's limitations were evident. The 8.8-inch display was well-integrated into the dashboard, offering pleasing graphics and a logical menu structure. The CX-30 included Bluetooth, HD Radio, and connected services, with Turbos adding SiriusXM, navigation, and a Bose premium sound system.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster and the latest MBUX infotainment system. While the screen was smaller than those in other Mercedes models, it was user-friendly, with a touchpad on the center console for alternative control. The "Hey, Mercedes" voice command system allowed for hands-free operation. The augmented reality navigation system provided helpful overlays, and the off-road page offered detailed information. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though connectivity issues were noted. USB-C ports provided ample charging options.

Safety was a highlight for the 2023 Mazda CX-30, with improved side-impact crash protection and standard rear side airbags. The IIHS awarded it a "Top Safety Pick" rating. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. The 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus added a surround-view camera, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The driving assistance systems worked well, though a forward-collision warning event was overly sensitive.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered 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, and lane-change assist. 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 and crash avoidance, with an "Acceptable" headlight rating for models with the Digital Light package.