2022 Acura RDX 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, while featuring an aggressive nose and sloping hood, seemed to lose its distinctiveness past the A-pillar, making it reminiscent of its predecessors. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to counteract its minivan-like tendencies, but the overall aesthetic fell short when compared to rivals like the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90. However, the interior was a different story. Mercedes made significant improvements, crafting a cabin that was a masterpiece of quality and design. The red and black interior was both bold and luxurious, with materials like wood, metal, and leather creating a tactile delight. Despite some flimsy controls, the GLE's interior exuded a sense of opulence, though it required a high level of customization to truly feel luxurious.

In contrast, the 2022 Acura RDX presented subtle styling changes inspired by its larger sibling, the MDX. The updates included modifications to the grille surround and bumper styling, along with new wheel designs and paint colours. The limited-production PMC Edition stood out with its exclusive Long Beach Blue Pearl paint and Orchid white interior. The RDX lineup offered a range of trims, with the A-Spec Platinum Elite package providing high-quality materials and a quieter cabin. While the vertical air inlets on the front fascia were not universally loved, the RDX maintained a stylish edge over many competitors. The interior, though featuring a unique control layout, was comfortable and supportive, with standard features like a panoramic sunroof and power-adjustable seats enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance, offering a range of powertrains and advanced suspension systems. The base GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 with 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 took it further with 429 hp, thanks to an electric supercharger. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality. The GLE's air suspension, particularly the E-Active Body Control, allowed for remarkable handling and ride quality, making it feel agile despite its size. All models came with standard 4MATIC AWD, and the GLE could tow up to 3,500 kg. However, fuel efficiency was not its strong suit, with the AMG GLE 53 averaging 14.7 L/100 km.

The 2022 Acura RDX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 272 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. Its 10-speed automatic transmission and Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system provided a dynamic driving experience. The RDX's adaptive-damping suspension and revised Integrated Dynamics System (IDS) offered distinct driving modes, enhancing comfort and responsiveness. Despite its engaging performance, the RDX's fuel consumption was higher than expected, averaging 11.4 L/100 km. The RDX's driving dynamics, comfortable seats, and thick steering wheel made it enjoyable for everyday driving, though it lacked the thrill of some German competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered spacious interiors, with most models accommodating five passengers, and an optional third row increasing capacity to seven. The second-row seats featured power controls for added comfort, while the Coupe body style was limited to five seats. Cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe's design, however, limited rear passenger space and ease of access. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability, though it required some setup before driving.

The 2022 Acura RDX, despite being a compact SUV, provided ample room for four adults and their luggage. The interior featured a sporty design, with a panoramic sunroof and a prominent IDS driving mode knob. The control layout required some acclimation, but the standard 12-way power-adjustable seats and dual-zone climate control added to the comfort. The rear seats, while less supportive, folded flat to create 1,668 litres of cargo space. The RDX also included a power liftgate and hidden storage compartments for added convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was packed with advanced technology, including a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture control and a Track Pace app for AMG models. The MBUX system offered a natural voice assistant, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The GLE's ambient lighting, head-up display, and navigation system with augmented reality added to the tech-savvy experience. The semi-automated driving features and extensive customization options made the GLE a technological powerhouse.

The 2022 Acura RDX featured the True Touchpad Interface (TTI) infotainment system, which required a learning curve but offered a direct relationship between the touchpad and screen. The RDX included Amazon Alexa Built-in, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a wireless charging pad. The available ELS Studio 3D surround-sound audio system with 16 speakers provided an immersive audio experience. The RDX's technology package also included a navigation system and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star 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 provided additional protection in the event of a crash.

The 2022 Acura RDX also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured structural upgrades for improved side-impact safety and a rear seatbelt reminder system. The AcuraWatch suite included forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. While the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist systems were generally effective, they occasionally issued false warnings.