2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Lexus TX

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minor, 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. Mercedes offered a wide range of customization options, including 10 interior color choices and five trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin.

In contrast, the 2024 Lexus TX was based on the Toyota Grand Highlander but managed to establish itself as a luxury SUV. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, which might have appealed to those who found previous designs too bold. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium semi-aniline leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The third-row seat was notably more accommodating than previous Lexus models, providing enough space for adults. The TX also offered a generous amount of cargo space, with 20.2 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. Despite some minor drawbacks, such as the dark interior and limited second-row legroom, the TX provided a comfortable and practical interior.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains to cater to various SUV shoppers. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, along with two AMG models. The top-of-the-line AMG GLE 63 S boasted a twin-turbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower, delivering sports car-like speed. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and electric motor, generated 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 and could operate at highway speeds up to 87 mph.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in eight seconds with front-wheel drive and 7.8 seconds with all-wheel drive. The TX 350's performance was adequate for typical driving situations, although the engine note and torque steer with FWD were minor irritations. The TX 350 FWD had an EPA fuel economy rating of 23 mpg in combined driving, while the AWD version offered slightly quicker acceleration and improved traction. The TX 350's suspension provided a comfortable ride, and the steering was accurate and responsive. However, the brake pedal felt too soft in the test vehicle, although it was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

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. While the GLE had an optional third-row seat, it was only suitable for young children. The GLE 450e came with a range of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, 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 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 Luxury model featured premium upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row seat offered triple-zone climate control and USB charging ports, while the third-row seat was spacious enough for adults. The TX provided 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 97 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. However, moving the second-row seat forward to accommodate third-row passengers reduced legroom for the second row. The TX also had numerous storage compartments, although some lacked lining, which could contribute to noise and vibration.

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, although it required some time to learn its various features. 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be accidentally activated, causing the music volume to increase unexpectedly.

The 2024 Lexus TX came with the optional Technology Package, which included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel, a head-up display, a digital rearview mirror, a surround-view camera, and a semi-autonomous parking assist system. However, the unmarked dual-purpose steering wheel controls were distracting, and the head-up display was difficult to see with polarized sunglasses. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen display and a digital assistant with natural voice recognition. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, along with subscriptions to Drive Connect, Service Connect, and Safety Connect. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson PurePlay surround-sound system provided impressive audio quality.

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, and hands-free park assist. The optional Driver Assistance package added features like active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. These features were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety.

The 2024 Lexus TX was equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, and road sign assist. Proactive Drive Assist was also part of the system, providing braking and steering assistance. However, it was not always transparent in its operation, leading to its deactivation. The TX also featured blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. Optional features included front and rear parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist.