2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing size and distinctive design elements. Its massive grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were scaled to match its substantial frame, reminiscent of classic Cadillac tailfins. The front end, with its tall hood and vertical running lights, gave the impression of a diesel locomotive. The Escalade's styling set it apart from other GM full-size SUVs, emphasizing its bulk. The 22-inch wheels on the test model appeared small against the vast expanse of sheet metal. The Escalade offered different trim pieces for "sport" and "luxury" models, with the Luxury and Premium Luxury trims featuring bright exterior trim and wheels, while the Sport trim had darkened trim, including a mesh grille. Despite sharing its body-on-frame architecture with other GM full-size SUVs and trucks, the Escalade maintained its luxury appeal, similar to the Lincoln Navigator.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was easy to overlook. The Mercedes star logos on the front grille added a clever touch, and changes to the headlights and taillights were noticeable when compared side-by-side with the previous model. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded elegance. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally impressive, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin. The GLE's interior was one of the most luxurious in its segment, providing a sense of class and sophistication.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain options, both shared with other GM SUVs and trucks. The standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 produced 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, while the optional Duramax 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine delivered 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel-drive in Canada. The Escalade diesel impressed with its smooth power delivery and low torque peak, making it easy to drive in various situations. However, the hard brake pedal was a drawback. The gasoline engine had a slight advantage in towing capacity, with a maximum of 3,629 kilograms, but the Escalade's ride was unsettled, even with independent rear suspension and available air suspension. The Escalade lacked off-road capability compared to its GM cousins and competitors like the Range Rover and Grand Wagoneer.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains to suit different preferences. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced a combined 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission sent power to all four wheels, allowing the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The electric mode allowed for silent highway driving at speeds up to 140 km/h. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride, even on rough roads. The GLE 450e's sophisticated steering made it easy to maneuver, and its driving manners were refined, giving it an edge over competitors.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade shared its body shell and chassis with other GM full-size SUVs, resulting in a spacious cabin. It offered the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs, although the Lincoln Navigator provided more second-row headroom. The Escalade's cargo capacity was impressive, with 722 litres with all seats in place, 2,064 litres with the third-row seats folded, and 3,426 litres with all rear seats folded. However, the raised centre console limited storage space, and the front seats felt similar to those in GM cousins. Cadillac included dedicated buttons for seat heating and ventilation, enhancing comfort.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which compared favourably to rivals like the BMW X5. While the GLE had an optional third-row seat, it was limited to certain trims and suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e test vehicle featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The GLE's interior was well-equipped with comfort features, including heated and ventilated seats, a Burmester surround-sound audio system, and advanced technology.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display, consisting of three screens: a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster, a 16.9-inch touchscreen, and a 7.2-inch screen for trip-computer functions. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot were standard. The display integrated seamlessly into the dashboard, with icons arranged for functionality. However, the carousel format for changing radio stations was awkward, and the rotary controller felt like an afterthought. The Escalade's OLED screens provided excellent resolution for the 360-degree camera system, and the rearview camera mirror eliminated blind spots. The Escalade offered advanced tech features, including a head-up display, night vision, and augmented-reality navigation.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system could be controlled via touch commands, a control pad, or touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive control on the steering wheel occasionally caused the music volume to increase unexpectedly. Overall, the GLE's infotainment system was feature-rich and user-friendly.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came with standard driver-assistance features, including cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on higher trims. Super Cruise, a sophisticated driver-assist system, was available as an option, providing hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. While the Escalade's safety features were impressive, it lacked safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year. Crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.