2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor particularly striking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The SUV's styling, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker, was complemented by polished brightwork. Despite the absence of the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe variant, the GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious interior with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech appearance, although the lack of traditional controls posed a learning curve for new users.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia for a rugged look. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line over the rear wheel arch, which added unnecessary visual weight. The interior was unconventional yet functional, with an asymmetrical dash and a metallic styling element that provided storage space. The Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition featured light grey fabric seat upholstery with a triangle motif, which was prone to dirt and stains. The rear seating area had more hard plastics, typical for family SUVs, but the third row was less accommodating, intended for occasional use by children.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system added extra power and improved fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg combined. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system, offering various driving modes. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes enhanced the driving experience, although the brake pedal was difficult to modulate in traffic. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban and suburban settings, with a nimble and composed feel, and offered a reserve of performance for spirited driving.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was equipped with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, generating 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The Highlander Hybrid accelerated to 60 mph in just over 8 seconds, comparable to gasoline-only SUVs in its class. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying adequate power. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on the highway. The Highlander Hybrid prioritized comfort over sporty handling, making it suitable for family use.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone automatic climate control system and a Warmth and Comfort Package with heated armrests.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, with plenty of adjustments for drivers of all sizes. The second-row seats were spacious, with sliding and reclining capabilities, and could accommodate six-footers comfortably. The third row was less accommodating, intended for occasional use by children. The Highlander offered 16 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 48.4 cubic feet with the seats folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with the second row stowed.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester surround-sound audio system. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant, augmented video for navigation, and an upgraded Burmester 3D audio system.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for top trims. The system was responsive, with logical menus and physical shortcut buttons. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a wireless charging pad for XLE trims and above. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were standard on Limited and Platinum trims.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional systems, including Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe was based on the standard GLE, which received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and a blind-spot monitor. The adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist systems required some fine-tuning, but generally worked as advertised.