2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer presented a traditional SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a tall hood, broad shoulders, trapezoidal wheel arches, and an upright profile reminiscent of the smaller 2021 Grand Cherokee L. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof, model-specific hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, featuring laser-etched knurling in the slots, while the wheel center caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer offered a luxurious experience with 24-way power front seats, Nappa leather upholstery, and American Walnut wood trim, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover, with changes that were not immediately noticeable. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights received minor updates. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e model tested was finished in Twilight Blue metallic and rode on 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. The interior exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior color choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin experience. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample room for passengers and a focus on class and sophistication.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a 6.4-liter Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in six seconds, impressive for a vehicle weighing around 6,400 pounds. The Grand Wagoneer featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering five drive modes and a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension system. With a maximum ground clearance of 10 inches, the Grand Wagoneer was capable of tackling off-road challenges, although its size limited its trail capabilities. The vehicle's quiet cabin and air suspension provided a comfortable ride, but its handling felt ungainly at higher speeds.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a diverse range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e model combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric mode provided an estimated 40 miles of range and could operate at highway speeds up to 87 mph. 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 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered seating for seven with standard second-row captain’s chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It provided more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. However, front-row space was more limited compared to these rivals. The Grand Wagoneer offered 27.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place and 70.9 cubic feet with the third row stowed. Its maximum towing capacity was 9,850 pounds, slightly less than the standard Wagoneer due to the Grand Wagoneer's additional weight. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. While the GLE-Class had an optional third-row seat, it was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 models and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power sunroof. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a panoramic sunroof, enhancing the overall comfort and luxury of the vehicle.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The McIntosh audio system and 4G-LTE WiFi hotspot were standard, while second-row passengers had access to a 10.25-inch touchscreen. An optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Grand Wagoneer used the Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which offered over-the-air updates and Amazon Alexa connectivity. While the system was feature-rich, it was occasionally slow to respond, and the instrument cluster graphics were considered plain.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and infotainment system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, though it required some time to master its features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused unintended volume changes. Overall, the GLE's technology offerings were comprehensive and enhanced the driving experience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer had not yet been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Standard safety features included a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included a driver-attention monitor, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. Active Driving Assist combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering, with a hands-free version planned for future release.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and traffic sign recognition. These features were unobtrusive during everyday driving and provided an extra layer of safety.