2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Dodge Durango

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. Up close, the new Mercedes star logos on the front grille were a clever addition, and changes to the headlights and taillights were more apparent when compared side-by-side with the previous model. The GLE 450e we tested was finished in a striking Twilight Blue metallic and featured 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which, despite their $1,100 price tag, added a touch of elegance to the vehicle. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally impressive, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim, adding a luxurious feel to the cabin.

In contrast, the 2023 Dodge Durango, entering its 12th model year without a redesign, maintained its familiar yet attractive look. Dodge opted for clean, car-like styling, avoiding the trend of oversized grilles. The Durango's slim styling, forward-leaning headlights, and large lower air intake gave it a distinctive presence. The SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models featured unique styling elements like a Viper-like hood and dual exhaust outlets, adding to their muscular appeal. The interior, while not as distinctive as the exterior, offered a comfortable and spacious environment, with higher trims like the Citadel and SRT models boasting luxurious features such as Nappa leather upholstery and heated second-row captain's chairs.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains to suit various preferences, starting at approximately $63,805. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two additional AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. Engine options ranged from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. Our GLE 450e tester featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower (295 hp with dual exhaust) and 260 lb-ft of torque. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8, standard on the R/T and optional on the Citadel, delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 with 475 hp and 475 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The SRT Hellcat model took performance to another level with a 6.2-liter supercharged V8, producing 710 hp and 645 lb-ft of torque, reaching 0 to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds. The Durango Hellcat provided an exhilarating driving experience, with minimal wind and tire noise at highway speeds, and a responsive adaptive-damping suspension.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, which compared favorably with competitors like the BMW X5 but fell short of the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. Standard comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. Our test vehicle also featured options like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Dodge Durango was available in seven-seat or six-seat configurations, with the Citadel, SRT 392, and SRT Hellcat models featuring second-row captain's chairs. The Durango offered competitive interior space, with headroom and legroom comparable to rivals like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse. Cargo space was 17.2 cubic feet with all three rows in place, 43.3 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 85.1 cubic feet behind the first row. The Durango also provided generous small-item storage, including a large wireless charging pad and well-placed USB ports. However, the lack of a power-folding third row was a drawback for higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with two 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system could be controlled via touch commands, a control pad on the center console, or touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. 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 and convenience, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on SXT and GT models, while the Citadel and SRT models featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The larger screen used the Uconnect 5 system, which was responsive and easy to use. The SRT models included the Performance Pages app, providing performance information such as timers and a g-force meter. A 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available with the Premium Package on the SRT Hellcat model.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist, making it a highly recommended option.

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed results in safety tests. The IIHS gave it top "Good" marks in some tests but a "Marginal" score in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA awarded the Durango a four-star overall safety rating, with five stars in the side crash test and four stars in the frontal crash test. RWD models received four stars in the rollover test, while AWD models got three stars. Standard driver-assist features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, with forward collision warning, lane-departure warning, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking standard only on the Citadel.