2022 Lexus NX vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor particularly striking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The SUV's styling, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker, was complemented by polished brightwork. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious experience with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimatization.

In contrast, the 2022 Lexus NX showcased a design that was unmistakably Lexus, featuring a prominent spindle grille and refined styling details. The NX was longer, wider, and taller than its predecessor, offering more passenger and cargo space. The interior was minimalist, with a focus on simplicity, though some functions integrated into the 14-inch touchscreen were not immediately intuitive. The NX's interior was comfortable, with options for real leather and open-pore wood trim, and the F Sport trim added sporty elements like bolstered seats and a unique steering wheel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system provided additional power and improved fuel efficiency, with a consumption rate of 12.7 L/100 km. The GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes for different conditions. The SUV's performance was enhanced by an adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Performance brakes, providing a nimble and composed driving experience.

The 2022 Lexus NX 350 F Sport, with its turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque. The eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD system contributed to a dynamic driving experience. The NX 350 F Sport offered additional driving modes, including Sport S and Sport+, and featured an adaptive variable sports suspension. The SUV's performance was smooth and responsive, though the turbocharged engine lacked the refinement of some German rivals. Fuel consumption for the NX 350 was estimated at 9.5 L/100 km, with the F Sport variant consuming slightly more at 10.6 L/100 km.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, while the rear seats provided ample legroom. The cargo hold measured 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone automatic climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Lexus NX offered a more intimate interior, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard in Canada. The F Sport trim provided better seat bolstering, and the rear seats were spacious with air conditioning vents and USB ports. The NX's cargo space increased by 14% to 643 litres, expanding to 1,328 litres with the rear seats folded. The panoramic glass sunroof and Thematic Ambient Illumination system added to the interior's appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system and an augmented video feature for navigation.

The 2022 Lexus NX introduced the Lexus Interface infotainment system, with a standard 9.8-inch touchscreen and an optional 14-inch screen. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Voice Assistant technology, and cloud-based features. A 10-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson system available. The new Voice Assistant and Intelligent Assistant systems offered natural voice control, and the NX included a complimentary three-year trial of Drive Connect services.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional driver assistance systems, such as Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though crash-test results were unavailable.

The 2022 Lexus NX included the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, offering a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. New technologies included Risk Avoidance Emergency Steer Assist and Oncoming Vehicle Detection. The NX also featured Emergency Driving Stop System, blind-spot monitoring, and Safe Exit Assist. Additional safety options included rear pedestrian detection, adaptive front lighting, and a panoramic view monitoring system.