2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander presented a bold and distinctive front styling, characterized by the automaker’s “Dynamic Shield” grille and lighting concept. Despite its daring front, the design from the front wheels to the rear bumper was balanced and appealing. In Canada, the Outlander was available in several trims, all featuring standard all-wheel drive and a range of prices from $31,998 to $42,178. The GT Premium trim, equivalent to the U.S. spec test vehicle, offered luxurious touches like premium semi-aniline leather, a head-up display, and a premium sound system, enhancing the overall upscale feel of the interior.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent subtle exterior changes that were hardly noticeable at first glance. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded elegance. The interior of the GLE 450e was a testament to luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide array of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin experience. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with a focus on class and luxury.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 181 horsepower and 181 pound-feet of torque. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) paired with Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control (S-AWC) AWD system. Despite the availability of various driving modes, the Outlander struggled with power delivery, especially at higher speeds or during overtaking maneuvers. The steering felt vague and disconnected, and the suspension was firm, leading to a less than comfortable ride on imperfect roads. The Outlander returned a fuel consumption of 9.4 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly higher than the official rating.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, with the GLE 450e featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided seamless gear changes, and the GLE 450e accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The transition between gas and electric power was smooth, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections with ease, offering a quiet and comfortable ride.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander excelled in form and function, with roomy and comfortable front seats, a 10-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and heated front seats. The interior design was clean and intuitive, though the centre console lacked storage space. The rear seats provided ample room for adults, and the third-row seat, while cramped, was suitable for children. Cargo capacity was limited with the third-row seat in use but expanded significantly when folded down.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered generous space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e provided 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, with the option for a third-row seat in certain trims. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE 450e was equipped with numerous luxury touches, enhancing the overall comfort and convenience for occupants.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander featured a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display, a large HUD, and a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay. The GT Premium trim included a 10-speaker Bose audio system, though the voice-recognition technology could be improved.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the “Hey Mercedes” voice command system was less sensitive than before. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated.

The 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander was equipped with a driver-assist system similar to Nissan’s ProPilot Assist, offering smooth and accurate performance. It included standard safety features like forward collision mitigation, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot warning. The Outlander received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.