2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a design that was neither offensive nor groundbreaking, with its Selenite Grey paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels giving it a sporty yet sophisticated look. The SUV's styling was reminiscent of an athletic sneaker, particularly from a front three-quarter view. Inside, the GLE was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment added a high-tech feel, although the lack of traditional controls could be challenging for newcomers. Over time, drivers acclimated to the vehicle's complexity, finding it easier to operate with minimal distraction.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a blend of new and old, with the GLC 300 being redesigned while the Coupe models carried over from the previous year. The GLC 300's exterior changes were subtle, with narrower taillights being the most noticeable update. Despite its evolutionary design, the GLC maintained its classy and timeless appeal. The interior received a significant makeover, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel. The materials and construction were top-notch, offering a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals. The GLC Coupe retained its first-generation interior, which aged well and offered some usability advantages over the newer model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, producing 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel. The GLE's fuel consumption was 12.7 L/100 km, slightly above the expected 12.5 L/100 km. The SUV featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with fully variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the optional AMG sport exhaust system enhanced the driving experience. The GLE's adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension provided a comfortable and composed ride, although the 22-inch wheels and low-profile tires were less forgiving on rough surfaces.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, delivering 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic AWD were standard in Canada. The GLC's acceleration was smooth, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. The brake pedal effort was soft but effective, and the suspension favoured comfort over sporty handling. The GLC Coupe continued with its older engine, producing 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque. The AMG model provided a sportier ride with a firmer suspension and louder engine.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe could technically seat five people, but it was more comfortable for four, especially if the rear passengers were adults. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, providing comfort on long drives. The back seat had ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, 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 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's front seats were adjustable and comfortable for long distances, with synthetic leather upholstery that mimicked genuine hides. The interior offered ample storage, including a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad. The GLC provided plenty of space for front passengers, while the rear seats accommodated average adults with limited headroom for taller occupants. The standard GLC had a 620-litre cargo area, smaller than some rivals, but adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and lowered rear headroom by 35 millimetres.

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 technology that responded to "Hey Mercedes" commands. Optional features included a head-up display, surround-view camera system, and Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC's interior was dominated by an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX system offered excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Intelligent Drive Package added 13 driver assistance systems, such as Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE's lane-keeping assistance was finely tuned, operating transparently until needed. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300's crash-test results were not yet available, but the previous GLC received high ratings from NHTSA and IIHS. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Intelligent Drive package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and emergency stop assist. The GLC Coupe shared the same safety features, with additional cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.