2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 BMW X7

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that was easy to overlook, even for seasoned observers. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor changes. 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. Mercedes offered a wide range of choices, with ten interior colors and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2023 BMW X7 underwent a mid-cycle makeover, adopting a bolder design inspired by the BMW 7 Series sedan. The front end featured LED accent lights and a recessed headlight design, which was polarizing due to the oversized kidney grille. While the front design was controversial, the sides and rear remained largely unchanged. The interior saw a refresh with a curved glass housing for the digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The center console featured a new toggle switch-like gear selector. Interior materials were of premium quality, with leather upholstery and a new Sensafin synthetic substitute. The X7's interior was well-built, with no creaking on bumpy roads, and offered a modern and elegant appearance.

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 like the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. The top-of-the-line AMG GLE 63 S featured a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered 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. The GLE's steering made it maneuverable despite its size, and the AMG models offered even quicker reflexes.

The 2023 BMW X7 lineup began with the base xDrive40i model, featuring a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a 48-volt mild hybrid system, producing 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque. The X7 M60i model upgraded to a 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its nearly 6,000-pound weight, the X7 handled well, with potent acceleration from the V8. The ride was slightly firmer compared to other luxury SUVs, but it offered a good blend of performance and comfort.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. It offered 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, suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with standard features like power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added features like a Burmester surround-sound system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2023 BMW X7 offered generous space, with the second row accommodating taller passengers. Accessing the third row required the power-operated middle row to slide and tilt, providing a large opening. The third row could hold average-sized adults, though thigh support was limited. Cargo space was 12.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.6 cubic feet with the third row stowed and 90.4 cubic feet with the middle seats folded. The X7 featured a split tailgate and a button to lower the suspension for easier loading. Front-seat passengers had ample storage space, including a large center console bin and door pockets.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The system was user-friendly but had a learning curve due to its feature-rich nature. 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, causing issues like sudden volume increases.

The 2023 BMW X7 came with the latest iDrive infotainment system, which had an intuitive layout for basic functions but required navigating complex menus for more advanced features. Many physical buttons were replaced by touchscreen controls, making tasks like adjusting seat settings cumbersome. Voice commands were available but interrupted audio playback. The system's reliance on voice controls was seen as a workaround for the lack of physical buttons and intuitive menus.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup 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 features were unobtrusive and performed well during everyday driving.

The 2023 BMW X7 lacked crash test results from NHTSA and IIHS, but it came with a long list of standard safety features, including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. The M60i trim added a surround-view camera system, and options included adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The highway driving assist feature was particularly appreciated for reducing driver fatigue on long trips.