2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Acura MDX

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minor, with the most notable being the clever Mercedes star logos on the front grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e model, in particular, stood out with its Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which added a touch of elegance. Inside, the GLE exuded luxury with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a wide range of choices, including 10 interior color options and five trim choices, making it one of the most robust-looking cabins in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Acura MDX Type S presented a more performance-oriented design. The Type S featured chicane-design LED running lights and taillights, along with 21-inch wheels that gave it a commanding stance. The interior boasted perforated Milano leather, aluminum trim, and a Sport Appearance package. However, the MDX's design had some drawbacks, such as the gloss black plastic on the dashboard, which made controls challenging to use, and the electronic transmission switchgear, which could be confusing. Despite these issues, the MDX Type S remained an attractive luxury SUV with a focus on performance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various SUV shoppers. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S, at the top. The AMG GLE 63 S boasted a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower, delivering sports car-like speed. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, generated a combined 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It offered a smooth transition between gas and electric power, with an estimated electric-only range of 40 miles. The GLE 450e excelled in performance, providing a quiet and comfortable ride, even on challenging road surfaces.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine producing 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. It utilized a 10-speed automatic transmission and Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system. The MDX Type S offered various driving modes, including Sport and Sport+, and an exclusive Lift mode for increased ground clearance. However, the performance upgrades didn't seamlessly integrate, resulting in an inconsistent driving experience. The MDX Type S struggled with transmission indecisiveness, lack of ride compliance, and poor brake pedal modulation. Its fuel economy was also disappointing, averaging 16.9 mpg during testing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with comfortable seating in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt light and airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery, and offered excellent outward visibility. The GLE 450e featured 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. However, the optional third-row seat 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 power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Additional options included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Acura MDX offered three rows of seating, with the option to remove the center section of the second-row seat for easier access to the third row. The MDX's interior featured a triple-zone automatic climate control system and 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage functions. However, the seats didn't provide the expected support for spirited driving. The MDX's third row was best suited for children, and the cabin's design prioritized style over storage space. The cargo area offered 18.1 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 71.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded flat. The Type S Advance trim included a hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch screens serving as 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 GLE also offered a head-up display and augmented reality navigation, enhancing convenience and clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing unexpected volume changes.

The 2023 Acura MDX's Digital Precision Cockpit included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment display. However, the infotainment screen wasn't touch-sensitive, requiring the use of a True Touchpad Interface (TTI) on the center console. The TTI design posed challenges, as it required learning a new system and reduced available storage space. Fortunately, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa Built-In, allowing drivers to use familiar voice recognition functions. The MDX also featured a high-end audio system with 25 speakers, delivering impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. These systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured Acura Watch, a collection of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems. It included forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The MDX also offered blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. However, the lane departure warnings were accompanied by a steering wheel wobble, which some drivers found less preferable. The MDX received good crash-test ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.