2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 underwent subtle yet significant exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, redesigned bumpers, a revised grille, and a fresh rear liftgate. These changes aimed to enhance the vehicle's premium appeal, especially in the top-tier Signature trim, which featured body-colour lower exterior trim. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with premium Nappa leather upholstery, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. The new seats provided improved comfort, addressing previous complaints about the seating position. The CX-5 offered a range of trims, from the budget-friendly GX to the performance-oriented Sport Design and Signature, with prices ranging from $30,500 to $43,650, excluding destination charges.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes that were hard to spot at first glance. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights received updates. The GLE 450e test vehicle stood out with its Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the GLE exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a wide range of customization options, including various interior colours and trims. The GLE's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom for passengers.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a choice of two engines. The base engine was a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. It came with a revised six-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive (AWD). Fuel consumption for this powertrain was rated at 9.3 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. For those seeking more power, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine delivered 256 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque on premium gas. The turbo engine also featured the revised transmission and AWD, with a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The CX-5's driving dynamics were improved, offering a quieter and smoother ride with reduced body roll and enhanced grip.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines. The GLE 450e, a plug-in hybrid, combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 381 horsepower and 479 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and AWD. The GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in electric mode and 9.9 L/100 km in hybrid mode. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for highway driving at speeds up to 140 km/h. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and seating comfort with new seats that provided better support and a sportier driving position. The interior featured leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat remained snug, but heated outboard cushions and air conditioning vents improved passenger comfort. The control layout, however, was a source of frustration due to the lack of a touchscreen display and natural voice recognition. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with the seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious and comfortable cabin with seating for five. The GLE 450e provided generous headroom and legroom, and the light beige upholstery contributed to an airy feel. The GLE's cargo space measured 630 litres behind the second row, which was competitive with 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 a host of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The test vehicle also included advanced features like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, augmented reality navigation, and massaging front seats.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. However, the lack of a touchscreen and natural voice recognition made the system less user-friendly. Instead, users had to rely on centre console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with text-messaging support and Mazda Connected Services. The optional Bose premium sound system provided decent audio quality, and SiriusXM satellite radio was available on higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, with touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth and 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 could be overly sensitive, leading to unexpected volume changes.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 came equipped with the i-Activsense package, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera system, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, and hands-free park assist. Optional features included active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving. The GLE received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.