2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minimal, with the most noticeable 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. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally impressive, featuring a luxurious combination of Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim, offering a high-quality and robust cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid shared its sleek and clean styling with the non-hybrid Pacifica, with the only distinguishing features being the charge port and some badging. Despite being around for nearly a decade, the Pacifica maintained a contemporary look with its rounded front fascia and integrated elliptical headlights. The Pacifica Hybrid was available in Select and Pinnacle trim levels, with the Pinnacle offering premium features like Nappa leather upholstery and small pillows for the second-row seats. However, some premium elements clashed with lower-level model components, such as the grained plastic on the door panels.

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, along with AMG models like the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. This setup allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero 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 GLE 450e's electric mode offered an estimated 40-mile range, making it a versatile option for both city and highway driving.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, a plug-in hybrid, featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine paired with a two-motor hybrid system and a 16-kilowatt-hour battery pack. This combination produced a total system output of 260 horsepower, slightly less than the non-hybrid model's 287 horsepower. The Pacifica Hybrid was only available with front-wheel drive and was not recommended for towing. However, the electric motor provided ample torque for quick acceleration and highway overtaking. The transition from electric to hybrid mode was somewhat clunky, but the Pacifica Hybrid offered a quiet and comfortable ride, with the electric powertrain enhancing the already quiet cabin.

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 was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. 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 numerous 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 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid, as a minivan, offered superior interior space and accessibility compared to crossover SUVs. It featured a low step-in height and sliding doors for easy access to the rear seats. The Pacifica Hybrid provided competitive interior dimensions, with ample headroom and legroom in the first and second rows. However, it lacked the Stow 'n Go second-row seats due to the battery pack, which occupied the space for a flat load floor. The Pacifica Hybrid offered 32.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 87.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 140.5 cubic feet behind the first row. The Pinnacle trim included the Ultra Console with additional storage space.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment display. The system was user-friendly but required some time to master its features. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing issues like sudden volume changes.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid came with a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa connectivity, and SiriusXM with 360L satellite radio. The system was user-friendly and had been updated over the years to remain current. The Pacifica Hybrid lacked a fully digital instrument cluster, but the analog gauges with a 7-inch digital display were functional. The Uconnect Theater rear-seat entertainment system added 10.1-inch touchscreens, wireless headphones, and Amazon Fire TV connectivity, providing entertainment options for rear passengers.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, and hands-free park assist. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. These safety systems were unobtrusive and effective during everyday driving.

The 2024 Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). It came standard with safety features such as blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Pinnacle models included a 360-degree camera system and ParkSense park assist. A new Emergency Vehicle Alert System provided warnings about nearby emergency vehicles or road hazards.