2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line, enhancing the popular XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long and tall hood, short front overhang, and a tapering greenhouse, creating a taut, athletic appearance. Blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and questionable materials, mostly justifying their price but occasionally revealing the base trim's influence.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes that were hard to notice at first glance. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor updates. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, scored a seven out of ten for its exterior, though the colour and wheels tempted a higher rating. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered ten interior colour choices and five trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin in this competitive segment.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims featured a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine with 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,400 kg and consumed between 10.3 and 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer Limited offered a hybrid drivetrain with a 3.3-litre V6 engine, producing 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,268 kg, and achieving 9.6 L/100 km. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard in the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque, towing up to 2,540 kg with a fuel consumption of 11.8 L/100 km. The Explorer's ride was robust, handling off-road terrain with ease, and offered an engaging driving experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE catered to various SUV shoppers with its range of powertrains. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. It had a fuel economy of 4.1 L/100 km in electric mode and 10.5 city/9.1 highway/9.9 combined in hybrid mode. The GLE 450e's electric mode operated at speeds up to 140 km/h, with seamless transitions between gas and electric power. The suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, and the GLE's steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size. The GLE 450e's performance was nearly flawless, offering a sophisticated driving experience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. The third-row seat was suitable only for children due to the rear-drive platform and low roofline. Fully equipped models featured triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, while the third-row seat lacked legroom and accessibility for adults. The Explorer's cabin storage was limited, with missed opportunities for practical storage solutions. The King Ranch test vehicle had a hands-free power liftgate, offering 528 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,132 litres with seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, with excellent outward visibility. Behind the 40/20/40 split-folding second row, the GLE provided 630 litres of cargo space. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims, suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound system, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display, enhancing comfort and convenience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer featured two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, with an 8-inch or 10.1-inch touchscreen. The smaller screen integrated well with the interior, while the larger screen appeared as an afterthought. The test vehicle included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, satellite radio, and a navigation system. Higher trims offered wireless smartphone charging, a surround-view camera, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system. The Sync 3 system's voice recognition was less advanced than the newer Sync 4, requiring manual input for some functions. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

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 was user-friendly, with a learning curve for its features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. The steering wheel's touch-sensitive controls occasionally caused issues, such as unexpected volume changes. Overall, the GLE's tech offerings were comprehensive and advanced.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, with five-star ratings from the NHTSA except for rollover resistance. Ford Co-Pilot360, standard on all models, included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control, lane-centring assist, and evasive steering assist. The Explorer's safety features operated smoothly, though the steering wheel's sensitivity to the driver's hands was a minor issue.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, and hands-free park assist. Optional features included active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, with no over-reactions to common driving situations. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.