2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received an exterior makeover, but the changes were subtle enough that even experts might not notice them at first glance. Up close, the Mercedes star logos on the front grille were a clever new detail. Changes to the headlights and taillights were more noticeable when compared directly with the outgoing version. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e we tested was finished in Twilight Blue metallic and featured 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which cost an additional $1,100. Mercedes offered a choice of 19- and 20-inch alloys as standard, with seven wheel designs and ten exterior colors in total.

Inside, the GLE 450e exuded class and luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. These added $1,620 and $160, respectively, to the sticker price. Mercedes offered ten interior color choices and five trims, including brushed aluminum, black piano lacquer, gray oak, and brown linden wood. The cabin was one of the highest quality and most robust-looking in its segment.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 showcased a significant stylistic evolution from its boxy predecessors. The front end appeared stout and solid without being boastful, and the grille was assertive yet not flashy. The “Thor’s Hammer” headlights added a modern flair. The XC90’s dimensions and shape leaned toward rectilinear but were far from the toaster-like designs of the past.

Our XC90 test vehicle, in AWD Ultimate trim, featured 21-inch wheels with low-profile Pirelli Scorpion all-season tires. The Platinum Gray paint had brown undertones, adding richness and depth. Volvo’s paint palette was not overly exciting, with options like smoky blue, black, white, off-white, silver, and another shade of gray.

Inside, the XC90’s design was elegant, with a gorgeous two-tone leather steering wheel and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The metal Bowers and Wilkins speaker covers, Orrefors crystal shift knob, and wood deco inlays added to the luxurious feel. The minimalist design featured few buttons, giving it a clean look.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting at approximately $63,805. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, along with AMG models GLE 53 and GLE 63 S. Engines ranged from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, developed 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque, reaching 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e’s electric mode could operate at speeds up to 87 mph, with an estimated EV range of 40 miles. The transition from gas to electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed bumps effortlessly. The GLE’s sophisticated steering made it maneuverable despite its size.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 replaced its older engines with new B5 and B6 engines, featuring mild-hybrid technology. The B5, with a turbocharger and 48-volt mild-hybrid system, produced 247 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The B6, with a supercharger and turbo, produced 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet. The mild-hybrid system improved fuel efficiency and smoothness but did not provide electric propulsion. The XC90’s eight-speed automatic transmission was smooth, and the vehicle handled well despite its size. The brakes were solid, and road and wind noise were minimal. The XC90’s driving experience was enjoyable but reserved, with limited customizable driving dynamics.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin. The GLE 450e had 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than 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 features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a power sunroof, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added features like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s front seats were comfortable, but the minimalist design led to limited cubby space. The second row was spacious but challenging to adjust. The standard second-row bench seat could be replaced with captain’s chairs for an additional $500, but only with the B6 engine. The third row was difficult to access and offered limited space. The XC90 had 12.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the third row in place, 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 65.5 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The XC90 drove like a smaller car, making it more maneuverable than typical three-row SUVs.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system could be controlled via touch, a control pad, 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be accidentally activated.

The 2023 Volvo XC90’s 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display ran Google OS, with Google Maps, Spotify, NPR, and Google Assistant as standard features. The system allowed for natural-language recognition and commands via Google Home devices. However, many key functions were controlled through the touchscreen, which could be frustrating. The minimalist design meant fewer physical buttons, requiring more interaction with the screen for adjustments.

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.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and a Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and Pilot Assist technology, which helped maintain distance and lane position.