2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE, particularly the AMG GLE 53 Coupe, presented a design that was neither offensive nor groundbreaking. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sporty yet sophisticated appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. Inside, the vehicle was luxurious, 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 feel, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimatization for new users.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The new model featured clever details like Mercedes star logos on the grille and updated LED headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, stood out for its handsome appearance. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a wide range of customization options, including ten interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the most robust-looking cabins in its segment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE, specifically the AMG GLE 53 Coupe, was equipped with 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 engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that added extra power when needed and improved fuel efficiency. The vehicle's fuel consumption was recorded at 12.7 L/100 km, slightly above the estimated 12.5 L/100 km. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with fully variable torque distribution. It offered multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road, and featured an adaptive damping control air suspension. The vehicle's performance was impressive, with nimble handling and a comfortable ride, though its size and weight were noticeable on challenging roads.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 350 4Matic, GLE 450 4Matic, and AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, with the GLE 450e PHEV joining the lineup for 2024. The GLE 450e featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The vehicle accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. Its fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The GLE 450e's transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and its suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads. The vehicle's steering was sophisticated, making it easy to maneuver despite its size.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four adults. The front seats were sport-bolstered, multi-contour, and equipped with power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expandable to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone automatic climate control system and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided generous headroom and legroom for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display.

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

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE also featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was easy to operate, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. Optional features included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The system's touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel required careful handling to avoid accidental volume changes.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional driver assistance systems. The vehicle's safety systems were refined and accurate, with features like Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe was based on the standard GLE, which received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. 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.