2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid emerged as a bold new entry in Hyundai's lineup, showcasing a dramatic design that set it apart from its predecessors. With sharp, angular lines and a longer, wider stance, the Tucson Hybrid was unmistakably modern and distinct from the 2021 model. Its grille, shared with the Santa Cruz, seamlessly integrated with the LED lighting, creating a futuristic appearance. Inside, the Tucson Hybrid offered a spacious and airy cabin, with standard heated front seats and a range of tech features, including a 10.25-inch digital driver display on higher trims. However, the centre console felt bulky, and the interior could heat up quickly due to the large sunroof and windshield.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe presented a more refined and athletic aesthetic. Its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels gave it a sleek, sporty look. The interior was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa leather and a Dinamica suede headliner. The dual-screen MBUX infotainment system added a high-tech touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. Despite its complexity, the GLE Coupe's interior design was intuitive, though the lack of traditional controls could be challenging for newcomers. Overall, the GLE Coupe exuded a sense of sophistication and performance.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid impressed with its 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided a noticeable improvement over the gas-powered version, with responsive steering and a smooth six-speed automatic transmission. The Tucson Hybrid's suspension effectively absorbed road imperfections, maintaining balance through corners. Fuel efficiency was commendable, with ratings of 6.3 L/100 km in the city and 6.6 on the highway, making it a practical choice for eco-conscious drivers.

Meanwhile, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine with EQ Boost, producing 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured robust acceleration and dynamic handling. The GLE Coupe offered multiple driving modes, including Sport+ for spirited driving, and an adaptive air suspension for a comfortable ride. Despite its size, the GLE Coupe felt nimble and composed, with impressive grip and braking performance. However, its fuel consumption was higher, at 12.7 L/100 km combined.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offered generous cargo space, with 1,097 litres in the trunk and 2,108 litres with the rear seats folded. It provided ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, and the dual-level cargo floor added versatility. The interior featured practical storage solutions, including bottle holders and cupholders, while ambient lighting added a touch of flair.

In comparison, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though four was more comfortable. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. The rear seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with the seats down. The GLE Coupe's interior was luxurious, with available upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with native software, though Android Auto and Apple CarPlay required a wired connection. The touch-capacitive controls for infotainment and HVAC were less user-friendly, but steering-wheel controls offered an alternative. The Tucson Hybrid included multiple USB ports and a Bose premium audio system on higher trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a head-up display, surround-view camera, and Burmester audio system. The touchpad on the centre console was less intuitive, but the overall technology package was impressive.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid came with a suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and rear occupant alert. Upgrading to the Preferred trim added blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control, while the Ultimate trim offered a surround-view monitor and unique features like blind-spot view monitor and remote smart park assist. The Tucson Hybrid received a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 advanced safety systems, including Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety technology was refined and accurate, with features like route-based speed adaptation for adaptive cruise control. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.