2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid initially presented a bold and distinctive design, with its blunt and bulbous nose creating a striking first impression. Over time, however, its unique styling became more familiar and less polarizing. The SUV's black windshield pillars gave the illusion of a floating roof, while its swollen haunches attempted to balance the overall design. Despite its 20-inch alloy wheels, the Highlander's cartoonishly-flared quarter panels seemed overwhelming. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered a two-tone interior with soft leather, though the dashboard's asymmetrical design and glossy black detailing could suffer from reflections. The mix of illumination colours in the gauges added to a busy appearance.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly in its AMG GLE 53 variant, showcased a more refined and athletic design. Its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels contributed to a sleek appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe exuded luxury with high-end materials, including Nappa leather and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech feel, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience. Despite its complexity, the interior design maintained a facade of simplicity, allowing drivers to acclimate to its advanced technology.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid transitioned from a V6 engine to a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 243 horsepower. This change improved fuel efficiency, with a rating of 6.7 L/100 km in combined driving. However, the driving experience was less engaging, with the engine sounding strained during acceleration and the steering feeling lifeless. The regenerative brakes were an improvement, but the SUV's handling was compromised by its weight and body movement. On smooth roads, it handled well, but uneven surfaces revealed its limitations. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in urban environments with its electric motor torque and EV Mode, but overall, it lacked driving enjoyment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivered 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system enhanced performance and fuel efficiency, achieving 12.7 L/100 km in testing. The GLE Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering multiple driving modes. Its adaptive air suspension and performance brakes provided a nimble and composed ride, especially in Sport+ mode. The GLE Coupe excelled in both urban and mountainous terrains, offering a thrilling driving experience with its performance-oriented features.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum offered comfortable seating for the driver and front passenger, with power adjustments and heated, ventilated seats. The second-row bench seat increased capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was cramped and uncomfortable for adults. Cargo space was generous, with 453 litres behind the third row and up to 2,387 litres with seats folded. However, storage solutions were less accommodating than previous models, and the wireless charger blocked access to storage.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five people, though four was more comfortable. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear visibility was challenging, but cameras assisted. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with seats down. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM. The Platinum trim added a JBL audio system and navigation. The system was user-friendly, with large controls and a voice recognition system. Driver Easy Speak projected the driver’s voice to rear passengers, and a video rearview mirror improved visibility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. It included navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. MBUX was intuitive, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition and augmented video for navigation. The Burmester audio system and head-up display enhanced the tech experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, offering features like automatic high beams, adaptive cruise control, and lane departure warning. It received a “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. However, some systems felt overly sensitive or inconsistent.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 safety systems, including Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE’s safety systems were refined and accurate, though the adaptive cruise control’s speed adaptation function could be irritating. Crash-test results were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings.