2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Lexus NX

The 2022 Lexus NX, redesigned with a focus on design, offered a range of models including the NX 250, NX 350, NX 350h, and NX 450h+. The NX 350, with its turbocharged engine, stood out with its distinctive Lexus spindle grille and refined styling reminiscent of the Lexus IS sports sedan. The SUV was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, providing more passenger and cargo space. The interior featured a minimalist design with NuLuxe simulated leather upholstery, and the F Sport trim added sporty elements like a unique grille, 20-inch gloss black wheels, and sport-bolstered seats. However, the decluttered dashboard, with many functions integrated into the touchscreen, sometimes made it challenging to quickly locate features.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, while subtly updated, maintained its luxurious appeal with details like the Mercedes star logos on the grille and optional multi-beam LED headlights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG wheels, exuded sophistication. Inside, the GLE 450e impressed with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. The cabin offered a plethora of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust look. Despite its subtle exterior changes, the GLE's interior and overall design remained a strong point, providing a sense of class and luxury.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered two electrified versions: the NX 350h hybrid with 239 horsepower and the NX 450h+ plug-in hybrid with 302 horsepower. The NX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive. The NX 350 F Sport added Sport S, Sport+, and Custom driving modes, along with an adaptive variable sports suspension. The NX 350 accelerated to 60 mph in 6.6 seconds, with fuel consumption estimates of 9.5 L/100 km in combined driving. While the NX offered improved dynamics over its predecessor, it lacked the refinement of German rivals and was not suited for off-road adventures.

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, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds, with a fuel economy of 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for highway speeds up to 140 km/h, and the transition between gas and electric power was seamless. The GLE's suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, and its sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size. Overall, the GLE 450e offered a nearly flawless performance with a quiet cabin and smooth ride.

The 2022 Lexus NX provided more interior room for passengers and cargo, with a cozy dashboard design. The NX featured comfortable heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and padded surfaces for added comfort. Rear-seat passengers enjoyed ample space, rear air conditioning vents, and USB charging ports. The NX's panoramic sunroof extended over the back seat, and the cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres, expandable to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered generous headroom and legroom for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The cargo space behind the second row was 630 litres, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a cabin-air fragrance and purification system.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system with large touchscreen displays, natural voice recognition, and cloud-based features. A 9.8-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 14-inch screen available. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Voice Assistant technology. The NX offered a 10-speaker sound system, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system as an option. The new Voice Assistant responded to natural commands, and the NX included a complimentary three-year trial of Drive Connect services. Additional technologies included a digital mirror, a 10-inch head-up display, and digital key capability.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with 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 clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused issues, such as unexpected volume changes. Overall, the GLE's infotainment system was feature-rich and user-friendly, with a learning curve for its various menus and capabilities.

The 2022 Lexus NX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included features like lane keep assist, dynamic radar cruise control, and automatic high beams. New features included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist, Oncoming Vehicle Detection, and Oncoming Pedestrian Detection. The NX also had a standard blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Assist technology. Additional safety features were available in packages, such as rear pedestrian detection and a panoramic view monitoring system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving, providing peace of mind without overreacting to common driving situations.