INFINITI QX50 vs Mercedes-Benz GLE

In a crowded and competitive luxury compact crossover segment, the 2021 INFINITI QX50 stood out with its distinctive design and engineering. The large honeycomb grille, curved hood with athletic bulges, and a unique chrome strip at the rear gave it a sporty and characterful appearance. The panoramic moonroof added an airy feel to the cabin, although thick B-pillars and a short rear window slightly hampered visibility. Inside, the QX50 featured soft-touch materials, aluminum trim accents, and a leather-wrapped, heated steering wheel. The front seats offered heating and cooling, enhancing comfort in various weather conditions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, had a more athletic and modern look. Inside, it was as sumptuous as expected, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech appearance, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. The interior design masked the vehicle’s complexity, making it initially challenging to use, but with time, it became more intuitive.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 268 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The unique VC-Turbo engine adjusted the compression ratio for a balance of power and efficiency. The engine operated smoothly and quietly, although the CVT's artificial shift points were noticeable. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option. The drive mode selector offered Standard, Sport, Eco, and Personal modes, with Sport mode providing the most responsive driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine generating 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system called EQ Boost. The SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system with variable torque distribution ensured robust acceleration and performance. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes further enhanced the driving experience, making the GLE Coupe feel taut, nimble, and composed.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 offered a spacious interior with ample hip, shoulder, and headroom, even with the panoramic moonroof. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed 38.7 inches of legroom, and the sliding second-row seats allowed for flexible cargo space. The cargo area provided 31.1 cubic feet of space, expanding to 64.4 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The optional Cargo package added practical features like a reversible cargo area protector and cargo blocks.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, while technically seating five, was more comfortable for four adults. The sport-bolstered, multi-contour front seats with numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions provided exceptional comfort. The back seat offered surprising legroom, and the cargo hold measured 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort upgrades included a four-zone automatic climate control system, heated armrests, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 featured the InTouch infotainment system with dual display screens, voice recognition, and a suite of connected services. Standard tech included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 10-speaker audio system. The 16-speaker Bose Performance Series premium audio system delivered excellent sound quality. The ProPilot Assist system combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assistance, providing a glimpse of autonomous driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless smartphone charging. The Burmester surround-sound audio system was standard, with an upgraded 3D high-end version available. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2021 INFINITI QX50 boasted a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot warning, forward-collision warning, forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and rear automatic braking. The QX50 received a four-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA and Good ratings from IIHS for crash protection.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe included forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system emitted a tone to protect hearing during a collision. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 advanced safety systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, with impressive lane-keeping assistance and adaptive cruise control.