2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover that was easy to overlook, even for seasoned observers. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and changes to the headlights and taillights were more noticeable when compared directly to the previous model. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, scored a seven out of ten for its exterior, though the color and wheels tempted a higher rating. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim, offering a high-quality cabin experience with numerous customization options.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas received a styling refresh that included new lighting elements, such as light-up VW logos and a front light bar connecting the daytime running lights. These changes gave the Atlas a more Americanized appearance, with a full-width light bar at the rear. All trim levels featured new wheel designs, with the SEL Premium R-Line boasting 21-inch wheels. The Atlas Peak Edition introduced an outdoorsy flavor with black 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, and unique exterior colors. Inside, the Atlas saw a revised center cabin with a freestanding infotainment touchscreen and a minimalist interior design. The interior aimed for an upscale feel with improved fake wood trim and available leather upholstery, though some materials felt more suited to a base model.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to various SUV shoppers with a starting price of approximately $63,805. 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 top-tier AMG GLE 63 S boasted a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower, delivering sports car-like speed. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, generated 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e excelled in acceleration, handling, and fuel economy, with an estimated electric range of 40 miles. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas reduced its powertrain options to a single 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine, producing 269 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offered front-wheel drive as standard and optional all-wheel drive. The Atlas achieved 0-60 mph in eight seconds for FWD models and 8.3 seconds for AWD models. While not a performance powerhouse, the Atlas prioritized comfort and practicality, with a smooth but noisy engine. The ride quality remained consistent with previous models, and the Atlas maintained a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, except for the base SE model, which was limited to 2,000 pounds.

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, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5 but slightly less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. While the GLE-Class had an optional third-row seat, it was only suitable for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof. Additional options included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas featured more standard features, such as a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats on the base SE trim. Seating for seven was standard, with a second-row bench that could hold three child seats and slide forward with them in place. Second-row captain's chairs were available on higher trims, reducing seating capacity to six. The Atlas offered competitive headroom and legroom across all three rows, with the third-row legroom being the best in its class. Cargo space varied from 20.6 cubic feet with all seats in place to 96.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, surpassing most rivals.

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 offered touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons. 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 steering wheel controls occasionally caused issues, such as unexpected volume changes.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas introduced more standard tech features, including a 12-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster. Wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with six USB-C ports available. A head-up display was standard on higher trims, and the Atlas switched to a Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system. The upgraded infotainment system was user-friendly, with sharp graphics and a map view in the digital instrument cluster. However, haptic touchpads for functions like audio volume and headlights were less intuitive than traditional buttons.

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, providing an extra layer of safety without overreacting to common driving situations.

The 2024 Volkswagen Atlas received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars in side crash testing. The IIHS had not yet rated the 2024 model, but the 2023 model received high scores in most crash tests. The Atlas included more standard driver-assist features, such as forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The SEL Premium R-Line added park assist and a surround-view camera system. Emergency features included automatic post-collision braking and a crash response system.