2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, with its family resemblance to the Nissan Armada, presented a robust and appealing exterior. Its distinctive Infiniti grille and tastefully integrated LED lighting added a touch of elegance without being overly imposing. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its upscale appearance. Inside, the QX80's cabin featured upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, though its design echoed the older Nissan theme. Despite its luxurious feel, the QX80's interior struggled to meet the high expectations set by its premium full-size SUV competitors.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent subtle exterior updates that might have gone unnoticed by many. The GLE's grille, adorned with Mercedes star logos, and the refined headlights and taillights added a touch of sophistication. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded elegance. Inside, the GLE's cabin was a testament to luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. The GLE offered a plethora of interior colour choices and trims, making it one of the most refined cabins in its segment.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was powered by a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine provided impressive performance and a satisfying exhaust note, though it was notably thirsty and required premium fuel. The seven-speed automatic transmission offered smooth and seamless shifts, enhancing the driving experience. The QX80's off-road capabilities were commendable, with standard four-wheel drive in Canada and a computer-controlled transfer case. Its towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms was generous, and the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, producing a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft 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 impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections with ease, making for a comfortable ride.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter due to its tall ride height, but once inside, it offered a spacious and airy cabin. Front-seat head- and legroom were good, though the third row was cramped for adults. The QX80 could seat up to eight passengers, but cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row and 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and moonroof added convenience, though their operation was slow.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt light and airy, and outward visibility was excellent. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive in its class. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE's interior was packed with luxury touches, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and soft-close doors.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. The absence of Infiniti's ProPilot Assist was notable, as the QX80's older architecture couldn't support advanced driver aids.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. The GLE's tech features were user-friendly, though the touch-sensitive steering wheel controls could be inadvertently activated.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 came with standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received a three-star rollover resistance rating from NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were pending.