2023 Land Rover Defender 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, giving it a sophisticated yet sporty appearance. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe was a testament to luxury, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. Despite its complexity, the interior design maintained a facade of simplicity, requiring some acclimation for new users to navigate its technology effectively.

In contrast, the 2023 Land Rover Defender was celebrated for its classic, boxy design that resonated with customers seeking the rugged charm of the old LR4. The Defender's industrial design was consistent, with square-jawed features and steep angles, paying homage to the original 1980s model. Tasteful accents like the dome and faux-metal step plates on the hood, along with skylights along the roof, added to its appeal. The Defender was available in three body styles, offering versatility and choice unmatched by other SUVs. Inside, the Defender prioritized function and durability, with a focus on materials that resisted stains and moisture. Despite its utilitarian interior, the Defender maintained a unique character, though it lacked the opulence of its Range Rover counterparts.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was equipped with 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 engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that provided extra power and improved fuel efficiency, with a consumption rate of 12.7 L/100 km. The GLE 53 Coupe boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system provided multiple driving modes, while the AMG sport exhaust system and adaptive damping control air suspension enhanced performance. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban environments, with speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering and a tight turning radius. On challenging roads, the SUV's performance-oriented features, including upgraded brakes and AMG Active Ride Control suspension, ensured a thrilling driving experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender, renowned for its off-road prowess, featured turbocharged inline-six and supercharged V8 engines. The V8 engine delivered 518 horsepower and 461 pound-feet of torque, providing impressive acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission was flawless, though the Defender's top-heavy design made it feel less stable at high speeds. The six-cylinder engine, part of a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain, offered 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, with seamless engine start-stop functionality. The Defender's off-road capabilities were unmatched, with features like the Terrain Response 2 system and permanent 4WD. However, on-road performance was less refined, with excessive body roll, slow steering, and noticeable wind noise. Despite these drawbacks, the Defender's engines provided ample power, and the V8 model was particularly exhilarating.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats featured numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the 655-litre cargo hold was generous. Folding the second-row seats expanded the cargo volume to 1,790 litres. The GLE Coupe included comfort upgrades like a four-zone automatic climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the luxurious experience.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender excelled in versatility, offering seating configurations for up to eight passengers. The Defender 90 featured a jump seat, allowing three across in the front, while the 110 and 130 models offered optional third-row seating. The Defender 130 provided 2,180 litres of cargo space with the third row and second row folded. The SUV's large glass areas and panoramic moonroof enhanced visibility, while features like a console refrigerator and power-deployable side steps added convenience. The Defender's off-road capabilities were complemented by practical features like a metal roof rack and a pressurized water rinse system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering a digital instrument cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and an upgraded Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender offered two touchscreen infotainment systems running Pivi Pro software. The standard 10-inch screen and optional 11.4-inch touchscreen were easy to operate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Standard features included heated front seats, keyless entry, and heated power-folding mirrors. Higher trims offered additional features like air suspension, a head-up display, and a rearview mirror with a camera display. The Defender's technology package was comprehensive, though it lacked some advanced driver assistance features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional systems related to driver assistance and collision avoidance. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, with features like Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist providing added security. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Land Rover Defender received a five-star rating in Euro NCAP crash testing, praised for its solid structure. Standard safety features included lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic emergency braking. The Defender offered optional features like a digital instrument panel with full-screen maps and a 360-degree camera system. However, the Defender lacked some advanced safety features, such as a self-steering highway assist.