2021 Volvo XC90 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, despite its lineage, did not quite capture the visual allure expected from the brand. Its exterior design seemed to promise something bold with its aggressive nose and sloping hood, but it fell short past the A-pillar, resembling its predecessors too closely. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to mitigate its minivan-like tendencies, yet it lacked the pitch-perfect proportions seen in competitors like BMW or Audi. However, the interior was a different story. The 2021 redesign brought a more cohesive and streamlined look, with a luxurious interior that boasted high-quality materials and a striking red and black colour scheme. The centre console's twin arching grab handles, outlined with LED lighting, were a testament to the GLE's opulent design, although some elements like the gear selector felt flimsy.

In contrast, the 2021 Volvo XC90 successfully reshaped Volvo's image with its design, maintaining traditional styling features while adding character. The XC90's boxy profile and blunt front end were complemented by softer lines, more chrome, and distinctive LED headlights with "Thor's Hammer" daytime running lights. The Inscription trim level, with its extra chrome trim and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the flashiest, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. Inside, the XC90 embraced Swedish minimalism with thoughtfully arranged, high-quality materials. The matte-finish wood trim and optional wool upholstery added a natural touch, while the Orrefors crystal shifter provided a high-end, albeit slightly out-of-place, detail in the otherwise restrained interior.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled as a multi-purpose vehicle, offering a complex suspension and engine setup. The base GLE 350 featured a coil-sprung setup, while the GLE 450 and AMG models boasted advanced air suspensions like AIRMATIC and AMG Ride Control+. The E-Active Body Control allowed the GLE to lean into turns, enhancing its agility. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured an electric supercharger for instant throttle response, although it wasn't as exhilarating as expected. All GLE models, except the base GLE 350, were hybrids with EQ Boost, providing up to 21 additional horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Despite these innovations, the GLE's fuel efficiency was average, with the AMG GLE 53 Coupe averaging 14.7 L/100 km. The GLE 450 4MATIC offered a turbo 3.0-litre inline-6 with 362 hp, while the AMG GLE 63 S featured a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 with 450 hp. All GLE models came with standard 4MATIC AWD and could tow up to 3,500 kg.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains based on a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine. The base T5 was turbocharged, producing 250 hp, while the T6 added a supercharger for 316 hp. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid combined the T6 engine with electric assist, delivering 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque. AWD was standard in Canada. Despite the power, the XC90's small engine struggled with flexibility compared to competitors' six-cylinder or V8 engines. The XC90 Recharge's drive modes—Pure, Hybrid, and Power—required careful management to balance efficiency and power. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, with an optional air-suspension system providing a smooth experience. The XC90's towing capacity was 2,250 kg, suitable for moderate loads.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models being two-row SUVs, and an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The Coupe body style accommodated five passengers, though the middle seat was less comfortable. Cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe's sloping roofline reduced space, offering 655 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres with all seats down. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a single touchpad and simplified interface, though some controls were fussy.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six- or seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and seats lacked support. The optional power sunroof and upright roof profile enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, though the steering wheel was not power-adjustable. Cargo space was limited, with 317 litres with all seats in place, 965 litres with the rear seats folded, and 1,815 litres with the second and third rows folded. The hands-free power tailgate added convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with Interior Assistant, allowing gesture control for shortcuts. The system was intuitive, with search bars and larger type for easy navigation. AMG models included a Track Pace app for racing enthusiasts. The GLE offered numerous comfort features, including seat kinetics, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and a natural voice assistant. The semi-automated functionality provided advanced driving assistance.

The 2021 Volvo XC90's Sensus infotainment system emphasized simplicity, with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility. The portrait-oriented touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text was sometimes difficult to read while driving. The wireless charging pad was small, and the lack of front USB-C ports was a drawback. The Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were available options.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered a range of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side systems enhanced crash protection.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. It offered extensive standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The XC90's safety features lived up to Volvo's reputation for prioritizing safety.