2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, while not particularly striking in appearance, offered a sense of familiarity. Its design, reminiscent of its predecessors, seemed to lack the boldness and refinement seen in some of its competitors. The exterior, with its aggressive nose and sloping hood, promised a dynamic presence but fell short past the A-pillar, blending into the background of previous GLE models. Despite efforts to enhance its rear with flat taillights and a contoured design, the GLE struggled to match the aesthetic appeal of rivals like the BMW X5 or the Volvo XC90. However, the interior was a different story, showcasing a masterful blend of quality materials, vibrant colours, and innovative design elements that elevated the overall experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a more cohesive and refined exterior, particularly in the AMG GLE 53 Coupe variant. The Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork contributed to a more athletic and modern look. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe continued to impress with its high-end materials and advanced technology. The cabin featured Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim, creating a luxurious and high-tech environment. The ambient lighting added a touch of elegance, enhancing the driving experience, especially at night. Despite its complexity, the interior design managed to balance simplicity and sophistication, offering a comfortable and engaging space for both driver and passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance, offering a range of engine options 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 63 S, with a 4.0-litre biturbo V8, delivered a staggering 450 hp. The GLE's air suspension systems, including AIRMATIC and AMG Ride Control+, provided exceptional ride quality and handling. The E-Active Body Control system allowed the GLE to lean into turns, enhancing its agility. Despite its size, the GLE offered a dynamic driving experience, with impressive towing capacity and seamless hybrid integration.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE continued to impress with its performance capabilities. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine with 429 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, supported by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured robust acceleration and handling. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered various driving modes, while the adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension enhanced ride quality. The GLE Coupe's performance was further complemented by its speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering and upgraded brakes, providing a nimble and composed driving experience in various conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models accommodating up to seven passengers with the optional third row. The Coupe variant, however, 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 sloping roofline reduced cargo space to 655 litres and 1,790 litres, respectively. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability, featuring a single touchpad and simplified interface. The interior was well-equipped, with seat controls on the doors and various shortcuts for driving modes.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe provided seating for up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous adjustments, including heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expanding to 1,790 litres with the seats folded. The GLE Coupe's interior featured comfort upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with a 12-inch touchscreen display featuring Interior Assistant, which recognized hand gestures. The MBUX system offered a user-friendly interface with search bars and larger type, while the AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance tracking. The GLE's technology suite included a head-up display, ambient lighting with 64 colours, and a natural voice assistant. The navigation system projected front camera feeds with overlays for directions, and the semi-automated functionality provided advanced driving assistance.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was intuitive, with natural voice recognition technology activated by saying "Hey Mercedes." Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. The MBUX system was praised for its ease of use and advanced capabilities.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with features like forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe Sound system protected hearing during a crash, while the Pre-Safe Impulse Side system inflated seat bolsters for side impact protection. The GLE's safety suite included various driver assistance features, enhancing overall safety and peace of mind.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system protected hearing during a collision. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 driver assistance systems, including Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The lane-keeping assistance technology was finely tuned, providing seamless support. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings.