2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, with new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, alongside an updated Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome illumination sequence. The SUV's front end was restyled, featuring an Audi-esque grille that, despite its Lincoln star and chrome detailing, seemed to lack the elegance and presence of its predecessor. Inside, the Navigator continued to impress with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, highlighted by the Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display space to compete in the screen size competition.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received an exterior makeover that was subtle enough to go unnoticed by many. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and changes to the headlights and taillights were minimal. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, scored well for its handsome appearance. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque through a 10-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, it came with standard four-wheel drive, offering a towing capacity between 3,674 and 3,765 kilograms, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, equipped with Road Preview technology, provided a smooth ride even on imperfect pavement. Fuel consumption was rated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the test vehicle averaging 12.6 L/100 km.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e PHEV with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, producing a combined 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 rating of 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for silent highway driving at speeds up to 140 km/h. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, though the regenerative brakes occasionally felt numb.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator offered exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustability, heating, ventilation, and optional massaging functions. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, providing a comfortable ride. The third-row seat was spacious and supportive, making it more comfortable than its competitors. The Navigator boasted generous storage and cargo space, with up to 2,925 litres of cargo volume in the standard model and 3,403 litres in the long-wheelbase Navigator L.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five adults, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt light and airy, with excellent outward visibility. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, though its optional third-row seat was best suited for children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator featured a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display, offering easy access to navigation and music details. The system supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE was equipped with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused issues with unintended volume changes.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. The surround-view camera system was standard. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, allowed for hands-free driving on approved highways, though drivers needed to remain attentive. The system performed well within its operational limits but required human intervention in certain situations.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive suite of active 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 the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.