2022 Chevrolet Traverse vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, while not the most striking SUV in its class, offered a blend of modern design elements and traditional Mercedes-Benz luxury. Its exterior design, though not as captivating as some of its competitors, featured an aggressive front end that promised more than it delivered past the A-pillar. The rear design, with flat taillights and a contoured finish, attempted to mask its minivan-like tendencies. Inside, the GLE excelled with a redesigned interior that was both luxurious and functional. The quality of materials, from wood to leather, was top-notch, and the layout was intuitive, though some controls like the gear selector felt flimsy. The interior's standout feature was its vibrant red and black colour scheme, which was both bold and opulent.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Traverse presented itself as a practical and stylish family SUV. Its exterior received a subtle refresh with new headlights, taillights, and grille designs, along with various appearance packages that added a touch of flair. The RS trim, in particular, stood out with its blacked-out trim and dark grey 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Traverse offered a spacious and well-thought-out cabin, though the use of hard plastics on upper door panels was a downside. The interior layout was simple and logical, with easy-to-use controls for the stereo and climate systems. The Traverse's design emphasized functionality, making it a strong contender in the family SUV segment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a powerhouse of engineering, offering a range of engines 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 performance further with 429 hp, thanks to an electric supercharger. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, provided additional power and improved the seamlessness of the auto stop-start system. Despite its hybrid setup, the GLE's fuel efficiency was average, with the AMG GLE 53 Coupe averaging 14.7 L/100 km. The GLE's air suspension systems, including the E-Active Body Control, offered exceptional ride quality and handling, making it feel agile despite its size. All GLE models came with standard 4MATIC AWD, enhancing their capability.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse, on the other hand, offered a single engine option: a 3.6-litre V6 producing 310 hp and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. The Traverse's towing capacity was 2,268 kg, and it featured various driving modes for different conditions. The V6 engine provided adequate power for everyday tasks, and the Traverse returned a fuel economy of 11.3 L/100 km during testing. The Traverse's ride quality was firm yet comfortable, though it could feel disconnected on undulating roads. Its handling was predictable, and the SUV performed well in mountainous terrain, thanks to its Active Return Assist steering and Duralife brakes.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models configured as two-row SUVs. An optional third row allowed seating for seven, though the Coupe body style was limited to five passengers. 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 cargo space to 655 litres and 1,790 litres, respectively. The GLE's usability was enhanced by the MBUX infotainment system, which simplified controls and offered intuitive features.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse provided ample interior space, though the RS, Premier, and High Country trims were limited to seven-passenger seating due to captain's chairs in the second row. The Traverse's Smart Slide function and long rear doors facilitated easy access to the third row. Cargo space was abundant, with 651 litres behind the third row and 1,637 litres with it folded. The maximum cargo volume was 2,781 litres, making the Traverse one of the roomiest SUVs in its segment. The Traverse also featured hidden storage compartments, adding to its practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen that supported gesture controls and a variety of advanced features. The system included a Track Pace app for AMG models, seat kinetics, and a natural voice assistant. The GLE's infotainment system was highly customizable, with a head-up display and ambient lighting offering numerous configurations. Standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with semi-automated driving features, made the GLE's technology suite comprehensive and user-friendly.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse featured a 7-inch touchscreen on the LS model, with an 8-inch display available on higher trims. The infotainment system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with a Wi-Fi hotspot and Teen Driver technology. The RS trim included a Bose premium sound system and an available digital rearview mirror. The Traverse's voice recognition system was responsive, and the surround-view camera and rear cross-traffic alert added to its technological appeal.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. It offered a range of safety and driver assistance features, such as blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side features provided additional protection in the event of a crash.

The 2022 Chevrolet Traverse came standard with Chevy Safety Assist, which included forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. Higher trims offered additional features like adaptive cruise control and a rear pedestrian alert system. The Traverse received Good ratings from the IIHS in most categories, though it scored lower in the new side impact test and for its LED headlights.