2023 Lexus RX Hybrid vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 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, giving it a balanced appearance. Inside, the AMG GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious experience with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech touch, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimatization for new users.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid maintained a subtle exterior, with the RX 350h Luxury model showing no distinct hybrid markers apart from its badge. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic design with contemporary textures and ambient lighting. The RX 350h Luxury featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had a sportier, all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim. The RX's design changes made it appear smaller despite its similar size to the previous model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, producing 429 hp 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 AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes and an optional AMG sport exhaust system. The adaptive damping control air suspension and AMG Active Ride Control suspension enhanced performance, making the GLE nimble and composed in various driving conditions.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two hybrid powertrains. The RX 350h, with a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving a fuel consumption of 7.4 L/100 km. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, consuming 11.3 L/100 km. The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension, upgraded brakes, and rear-wheel steering, providing a dynamic driving experience. However, accessing driving modes required navigating the infotainment system, which could be cumbersome.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous adjustments, while the back seat provided ample legroom. The cargo hold measured 655 litres, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, a four-zone climate control system, and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid provided a comfortable interior with ten-way power-adjustable front seats in the RX 350h Luxury and eight-way in the RX 500h F Sport Performance. The RX 350h featured premium leather, while the RX 500h had standard-grade leather. The battery placement under the rear seat offered good leg support but limited headroom. Cargo space increased to 838 litres behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the seats folded, surpassing the previous model but still trailing some competitors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and optional upgrades like gesture recognition and augmented video navigation. However, the touchpad on the centre console was prone to accidental activation.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription services for full functionality. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with a cloud-based navigation system and digital voice assistant. However, the touchscreen displayed only one menu at a time, and reflections were an issue. The head-up display, paired with touch-sensing control pads, was problematic for users with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 driver assistance systems, with Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist standing out for their effectiveness. The GLE's adaptive cruise control included a route-based speed adaptation function, which could be irritating.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, with new motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. Proactive Driving Assist and regenerative braking enhanced safety and efficiency. However, the front cross-traffic alert system and curve-speed reduction tech had limitations. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, though the latter was not tested.