Mercedes-Benz GLE vs Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ continued to captivate with its strikingly handsome design, featuring bold yet tasteful details that set it apart from other electric SUVs. Despite being on the market for five years, its aesthetic appeal remained undiminished. Inside, the LYRIQ offered a sensational blend of technology and old-school luxury, with top-notch materials and user-friendly toggle switches for climate controls. However, it had a mixed reputation for build quality, with some past models exhibiting issues like rattling and misaligned trim. The test vehicle in question showed signs of improvement, suggesting Cadillac might have addressed these concerns.

In contrast, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent significant styling changes, including a star motif for the lights and grille, which added a designer touch but didn't necessarily enhance its overall appearance. The GLE retained its familiar silhouette, reminiscent of the old M-Class, but the combination of rounded and boxy elements created a discordant look. Inside, the GLE featured a rearranged dashboard to accommodate the Superscreen display, while fit and finish met Mercedes' high standards. Material quality varied with trim levels, offering options like wood trim and real leather upholstery for those willing to invest in higher trims.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ offered a range of powertrain options, starting with a single motor rear-wheel drive (RWD) version producing 365 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, with an EPA-rated range of 326 miles. The dual-motor all-wheel drive (AWD) LYRIQ-V delivered 615 hp and 650 lb-ft, with a range of up to 285 miles. The test vehicle featured an AWD setup with 515 hp and 450 lb-ft, capable of traveling 319 miles with the standard 11.5-kW AC onboard charger. Despite its power, the LYRIQ's throttle was tuned for a refined, linear power delivery, reminiscent of a classic V8. The ride comfort was commendable, even with 22-inch wheels, and the braking system offered three settings, including one-pedal driving options.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a diverse array of powertrains, including four-, six-, and eight-cylinder engines, as well as two plug-in hybrid options. The base GLE 350 4Matic featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450 4Matic had a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six producing 375 hp and 413 lb-ft, while the GLE 580 4Matic offered a twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 with 530 hp and 553 lb-ft. The AMG GLE models provided even more power, with the AMG GLE 63 S topping the lineup at 603 hp and 627 lb-ft. The GLE's ride was luxurious, aided by an optional air suspension system, though it wasn't as sporty as some competitors.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ offered decent interior storage, with large cupholders, spacious door bins, and a deep center armrest bin. The center console featured a large storage tray, while a pull-out tray under the dash provided additional space. Cargo capacity was 28 cubic feet behind the rear seats, accommodating six suitcases with room to spare. The LYRIQ's rear seat offered ample legroom, making it comfortable for taller passengers and accommodating rear-facing child seats without adjusting the front seats.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided both two-row and three-row options, with the latter offering a tight squeeze for passengers. Interior dimensions remained unchanged, offering class-competitive first-row headroom but limited legroom. The second row was spacious, with a standard panoramic glass roof for SUV models. The GLE SUV offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the seats folded. The GLE Coupe had slightly less cargo space but still outperformed competitors like the BMW X6. The GLE's towing capacity remained at 7,700 pounds for non-AMG models.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ featured a beautifully crisp OLED touchscreen with an arched design that enhanced the cabin's aesthetics. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Google built-in functions, offering a user-friendly experience. The standard AKS audio system with Dolby Atmos provided exceptional sound quality, a rarity in luxury SUVs without an additional cost.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE introduced the Superscreen display, comprising three 12.3-inch screens forming the dashboard fascia. The MBUX infotainment system was upgraded with the MB.OS operating system and AI-enhanced voice assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were retained. The GLE also offered an augmented-reality head-up display, an inward-facing camera for videoconferencing, and a 15-speaker Burmester audio system on most models.

The 2027 Cadillac LYRIQ came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including GM's Super Cruise hands-free highway driving assist system. The 2026 model received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the 2027 model expected to maintain these ratings.

The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLE included standard driver-assistance features like lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitors, and adaptive cruise control. A parking-assist system and surround-view camera were available. The 2026 model received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with the 2027 model expected to perform similarly.