2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a balanced design that didn't offend the senses, even if it reminded some of an athletic sneaker from certain angles. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork contributed to a sophisticated 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 was sleek, though it required some acclimatization for new users to navigate its technology effectively.

In contrast, the 2022 INFINITI QX80 shared a platform with the Nissan Armada, yet it stood out with its distinctive Infiniti grille and tasteful use of chrome. The QX80's exterior was further enhanced by stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels. Inside, the QX80 boasted upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats and tasteful wood trim. However, despite its luxurious interior, the QX80's design was beginning to show its age compared to its competitors. While the cabin was comfortable and attractive, it struggled to meet the high expectations set by the premium full-size SUV market.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by 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 when needed and improved fuel efficiency. The GLE 53 Coupe achieved a fuel consumption rate of 12.7 L/100 km in combined driving. Its performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered various driving modes, and the adaptive damping control air suspension ensured a smooth ride. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban environments with its speed-sensitive variable-ratio power steering and tight turning radius. On challenging roads, the SUV's performance-oriented features, such as the AMG Active Ride Control suspension and upgraded brakes, shone through, providing a thrilling driving experience.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was equipped with a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine, producing 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and seamless shifts. The QX80's power delivery was linear, and the transmission performed admirably on steep inclines and declines. The SUV's off-road capabilities were notable, thanks to its 4WD system with a computer-controlled transfer case and ample ground clearance. The QX80 handled rough terrain with ease, although its low-profile tires required caution. With a towing capacity of 3,855 kilograms, the QX80 was well-suited for hauling large loads. Despite its size, the QX80 managed to control body lean during cornering, thanks to the Hydraulic Body Motion Control system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe offered seating for up to five people, though it was best suited for four adults. The front seats were highly adjustable, providing comfort and support, while the back seat offered ample legroom. The cargo space was generous, with 655 litres available, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe featured numerous comfort upgrades, including heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, as well as a four-zone automatic climate control system. However, rear visibility was limited, necessitating the use of available cameras.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, owing to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin felt spacious and airy, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat or seven with captain's chairs. However, the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with 470 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,694 litres with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were convenient but slow to operate. The QX80's interior featured premium touches like illuminated kick plates and radiant exterior welcome lighting.

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, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included a wireless smartphone charger, a Burmester surround-sound audio system, and an augmented video feature for navigation. However, the touchpad on the centre console was prone to accidental activation.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, while based on an older design, offered a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The system included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 17-speaker Performance Series premium sound system was standard, along with multiple USB ports and illuminated steering-wheel-mounted audio controls. A wireless smartphone charger was a new addition for 2022. The QX80 also featured a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system, though the lack of HDMI adapters was a drawback. Notably absent was Infiniti's ProPilot Assist advanced driving-assistance system, due to the QX80's older architecture.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. The Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist systems were particularly impressive, providing refined and accurate assistance. The GLE Coupe's adaptive cruise control included a route-based speed adaptation function, which could be a source of irritation. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a range of standard safety features, including forward automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. Additional safety items included driver attention alert, front knee airbags, and seat belt pre-tensioners for second-row passengers. The ProActive grade offered a smart rearview mirror and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, while the structurally similar 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS had not rated the QX80 for safety.