2022 Porsche Macan vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Porsche Macan retained much of its original design from its 2015 debut, despite undergoing several updates over the years. The latest iteration featured a refreshed exterior with larger standard wheels and a redesigned centre console that incorporated haptic touch controls, enhancing both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the interior. The Macan S, our test vehicle, showcased a sleek Volcano Gray exterior with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, embodying Porsche's tradition of combining elegance with performance. Inside, the Macan's cabin exuded a sporty yet upscale vibe, highlighted by red leather, gloss black trim, and silver metallic accents, all contributing to a luxurious driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, presented a sophisticated appearance. The interior of the GLE 450e was equally impressive, featuring a combination of Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. This luxurious cabin offered a plethora of customization options, including ten interior colour choices and five trim options, ensuring a high-quality and robust look that stood out in its segment.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of powertrains, with the base Macan and Macan T featuring a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine producing 261 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The Macan GTS inherited the 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 from the previous Macan Turbo, delivering 434 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Our Macan S test vehicle was equipped with a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6, generating 375 hp and 383 lb-ft of torque, allowing it to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The Macan's seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission and fully variable AWD system provided a dynamic driving experience, while the re-tuned steering and suspension enhanced ride and handling. The Macan S excelled on twisty roads, offering precise steering, unyielding grip, and impressive braking performance, though it required a firm push on the brake pedal to initiate a stop.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE catered to a wide range of SUV shoppers with its diverse powertrain options. The GLE 450e, our test vehicle, combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, enabling the GLE 450e to accelerate 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 electric mode and a range of 77 kilometres on a full charge. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth and comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The GLE 450e's sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size, offering a refined driving experience.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a comfortable driving experience for the driver and front-seat passenger, with optional 14-way power-adjustable front seats featuring heating and ventilation. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls provided a modern look but required the driver to look away from the road to use the controls. Cargo space was limited, with 488 litres available behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the rear seats folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery, and offered excellent outward visibility. The GLE 450e featured a range of comfort touches, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Cargo space was competitive, with 630 litres available behind the second row, though the optional third-row seat was only suitable for young children.

The 2022 Porsche Macan was equipped with a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known as Porsche Communication Management (PCM). This system included wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and connected services. While the user experience was generally intuitive, the voice recognition system was less reliable compared to competitors. The Macan offered stereo volume and tuning controls below the screen, allowing for easy access to frequently adjusted features.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a pair of 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system was feature-rich, with a learning curve, but offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved voice command system. 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 Porsche Macan came standard with lane-departure warning and a reversing camera, with optional features including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. While these technologies performed as expected, the Macan lacked more advanced driving assistance features. The Macan offered optional parking assistance features, including a surround-view camera and Park Assist system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.