2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volkswagen Taos

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor groundbreaking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels giving it a sporty yet sophisticated appearance. The interior was a blend of luxury and technology, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather and a dual-screen setup for instrumentation and infotainment. While the cabin's complexity could be daunting for newcomers, the ambient lighting and high-tech features made it a pleasurable driving experience once acclimated.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos aimed for a balance of style and practicality, with its Cornflower Blue paint and 19-inch alloy wheels lending it an upscale look. Inside, the Taos Highline trim offered a premium feel with leather seats and metallic detailing, resembling a more affordable Audi. The spacious interior was a standout feature, providing ample room for passengers and cargo, making it one of the largest subcompact SUVs available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed, contributing to a fuel consumption of 12.7 L/100 km. The SUV featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering multiple driving modes for varied conditions. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban settings with its nimble handling and tight turning radius, while its performance capabilities shone on challenging roads, despite its size and weight being potential drawbacks.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos, equipped with a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, produced 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The AWD models came with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering up to five driving modes. However, the powertrain's response was inconsistent, and the engine's lack of power was evident compared to competitors. Despite this, the Taos demonstrated a Germanic driving character, with firm handling and excellent visibility, though it suffered from wind and road noise at highway speeds.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five, though it was best suited for four adults. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, while the rear seats provided ample legroom. The cargo space was generous, with 655 litres available, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included heated and ventilated seats, a four-zone climate control system, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos provided a spacious interior, with the Highline trim offering leather seats and dual-zone climate control. The rear seats were notably roomy, with air conditioning vents and a panoramic sunroof enhancing comfort. The cargo area was also generous, with 790 litres available, expanding to 1,866 litres with the rear seats folded. However, the use of hard plastics in the door panels detracted from the overall premium feel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone connectivity. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a Burmester surround-sound system and augmented video for navigation, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos came with digital instrumentation and an infotainment system that varied by trim. The Highline trim offered a 10.25-inch display, wireless smartphone connectivity, and a Beats Audio system. However, the user experience was hindered by hidden controls and a challenging interface, making smartphone integration a more reliable option.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped 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, enhancing safety and convenience. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos improved its safety features, with standard forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Comfortline trim added lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control, while the Highline included parking sensors and road-sign recognition. The Taos received decent crash-test ratings, though not perfect.