2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Chevrolet Blazer

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer, available in Canada in LT, True North, Premier, and RS trims, offered a mix of sporty aesthetics and practical design. The LT trim featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with front-wheel drive, while higher trims came with a V6 engine and all-wheel drive. The RS trim stood out with its advanced twin-clutch AWD system, enhancing its performance on low-traction surfaces. The Blazer's exterior saw minor updates, including revised bumper and bodyside trim for the Premier version and new two-tone paint options for the LT and RS trims. The interior, inspired by the Camaro, featured an 8-inch touchscreen with intuitive controls and innovative air vent designs. However, the use of hard plastics, particularly on the upper door panels, detracted from the overall quality feel. The RS trim's red interior accents, matching the Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, added a touch of sophistication.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, though subtly updated, maintained its elegant and luxurious appeal. The exterior changes were minimal, with new Mercedes star logos on the grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded a refined presence. Inside, the GLE 450e impressed with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour and trim options, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin experience. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom, and the light upholstery contributed to an airy feel. The vehicle's sophisticated steering and maneuverability made it easy to handle, despite its size.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer LT was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Tour, Sport, Slippery, and Tow/Haul. The higher trims featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine, delivering 308 horsepower and 270 pound-feet of torque, with a more advanced dual-clutch AWD system exclusive to the RS trim. The V6 engine provided satisfying acceleration, though it was often loud and unrefined. The Blazer RS's handling was firm and sporty, but its suspension struggled on uneven roads, and the steering felt artificial in Sport mode. The Blazer's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.0 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, but real-world testing showed an average of 11.5 L/100 km.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the AMG GLE 53 featuring a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six. 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 provided smooth gear changes, and the GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was rated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections with ease. The GLE's steering was precise, making it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer offered a comfortable and practical interior, with black leather upholstery and red perforations in the RS trim. The front seats provided power adjustment and heating, though they lacked side bolsters and thigh support. Dual-zone automatic climate control and rear air vents ensured passenger comfort. The Blazer's back seat was spacious, with sliding functionality to adjust cargo or passenger space. Storage options were plentiful, with a large glove compartment, centre armrest bin, and door panel shelves. The power rear liftgate, available with hands-free operation, revealed a 864-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE's interior was spacious and luxurious, with seating for five and generous headroom and legroom. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The cargo space behind the second row measured 630 litres, with the option for a third-row seat in certain trims. The GLE's interior was equipped with numerous comfort features, including a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display. The cabin's quality and attention to detail were evident, with features like soft-close doors and the Mercedes Air Balance cabin-air fragrance system.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer featured a user-friendly infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, offering easy access to controls. The RS trim included power tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, heated front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The Blazer's back seat provided ample space and sliding functionality for added versatility. Storage options were abundant, with a large glove compartment and centre armrest bin. The power rear liftgate, available with hands-free operation, revealed a 864-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,818 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation provided clear and convenient guidance. The GLE's technology was intuitive, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel required careful handling to avoid accidental volume changes.

The 2022 Chevrolet Blazer came standard with the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including forward-collision alert, pedestrian detection, and lane-keep assist. Additional safety features included a rear-seat reminder system, Teen Driver technology, and an available Safety Alert Seat. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance worked effectively, providing a smooth driving experience. However, the Blazer's headlights did not receive high ratings from the IIHS, affecting its overall safety score.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive array of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, contributing to its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year. The GLE's safety features provided peace of mind without being overly intrusive during everyday driving.