2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a design that, while potentially polarizing due to its SUV coupe nature, seemed relatively palatable. The Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and generous polished brightwork combined to provide a look that wasn't particularly offensive. The GLE 53 Coupe projected a semblance of an athletic sneaker when viewed from the front three-quarter perspective.

Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe exuded luxury, with sumptuous high-end materials such as Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner and steering wheel, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen design for instrumentation and infotainment amplified its high-tech appearance, and ambient lighting added to the driving pleasure at night. However, the interior's facade of simplicity masked the vehicle’s complexity, which could be off-putting for newcomers initially.

Conversely, the 2023 Volvo XC60 oozed elegance with its classic Scandinavian minimalism. The Recharge Ultimate package and Dark exterior theme, accentuated by Thunder Grey paint and 20-inch wheels, resulted in an aesthetically appealing SUV. The XC60 maintained Volvo’s reputation for stylish design, aging gracefully over the years.

Inside, the XC60 continued with premium materials and minimalistic design. The black leather interior was complemented by wood trim, metal accents, ambient lighting, a panoramic sunroof, and the opulent Orrefors crystal gear selector knob, making the cabin feel upscale and inviting. Although some functions required an acclimation period, the interior’s thoughtful design ensured most controls became intuitive with usage.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe delivered robust performance with its 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This engine included EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that augmented power when needed and helped with fuel efficiency, returning an average of 18.5 mpg. Using the SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, the GLE Coupe provided a range of driving modes—Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, Individual, and Off-road. It showcased admirable urban agility, ease of parking, and a capable braking system. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension optimized ride comfort over various road conditions, although sharper bumps were less forgiving.

Switching to Sport+ mode on challenging terrains revealed the SUV's performance prowess, with impressive grip, brake performance, and suspension efficacy on mountainous roads. Nevertheless, its size and weight could be a downside in tighter corners, with the performance exhaust system contributing to a louder driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge offered a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, generating a total of 455 horsepower and 423 pound-feet of torque. With an estimated 35 miles of pure electric driving range, it offered dynamic versatility and efficiency, hitting 60 mph in an impressive 4.5 seconds. Driving modes like Hybrid, Power, Pure, Off-road, and Constant AWD enabled customization to different driving scenarios.

During tests, the XC60 Recharge exhibited stellar performance with effective torque-vectoring in Hybrid mode. Although the default Hybrid setting was sufficiently responsive, engaging Power mode significantly enhanced driving engagement on twisty roads. The PHEV returned an average fuel economy of 54.6 mpg over a 65-mile route, with Charge mode enabling battery recharge during driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe technically accommodated five passengers, though four passengers would be more comfortable. The multi-contour front seats provided excellent adjustability, with features like heating, ventilation, and massaging enhancing comfort. Forward visibility was decent, but rear visibility was limited. Its back seat offered surprising legroom for adults, and cargo capacity stood at 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included heated rear seats and options for a Warmth and Comfort Package with rapid-heating features and an Air Balance fragrance system.

The 2023 Volvo XC60, being a compact SUV, ideally suited four passengers but could accommodate five if required. Front seats wrapped in Nappa leather offered exceptional comfort with heating, ventilation, and power cushion extensions. However, the rear seats, though comfortable, had limited legroom for taller passengers. Storage solutions were well thought out, with practical spots hidden within the console and door panels. Cargo capacity was slightly lower at 25.8 cubic feet, expanding to 63.3 cubic feet with the seats down. Features like heated rear seats, a ski pass-through, and optional air suspension for easier loading highlighted its functional design.

The GLE 53 Coupe featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) system, combining dual 12.3-inch screens under a single glass pane for both digital instrumentation and infotainment. Standard amenities included navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless smartphone charging, and a Burmester surround-sound system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and intuitive controls, despite some minor nuisances like the touchpad on the center console.

In contrast, the XC60's tech included a 12-inch digital instrument panel and a 9-inch Google Built-in infotainment system with complimentary Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play access. The system supported both Android and Apple CarPlay, with SiriusXM and Wi-Fi access as additional features. Although the portrait-mounted touchscreen was smaller, the layout was clean and user-friendly. Voice-recognition capabilities were impressive, and the optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system provided an exceptional audio experience.

The 2022 GLE Coupe came with extensive safety features, from the basics like forward-collision warning to advanced systems in the optional Driver Assistance Package, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. While official crash-test results for the Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE's top safety ratings assured a high level of protection.

The 2023 XC60 maintained Volvo's legacy of safety, equipped with Pilot Assist for adaptive cruise control and lane-centering on highways. Oncoming Lane Mitigation for avoiding head-on collisions and an array of driver assistance features underscored its safety credentials. The XC60 earned top marks from the IIHS for 2022 and is expected to uphold its excellent ratings for 2023.