2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from Toyota's Tacoma pickup, featuring a trapezoidal grille and upright fascia that gave it a rugged appearance. However, the design introduced some softness with a character line swooping over the rear wheel arch, which added unnecessary visual weight. The rear echoed the trapezoidal grille, but the overall design felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid's asymmetrical dash was interrupted by a metallic styling element, creating a helpful storage tray. The infotainment touchscreen was mounted high, reducing driver distraction. The Bronze Edition featured 18-inch bronze alloy wheels and light grey fabric upholstery, which attracted dirt and stains, raising durability concerns. The Softex synthetic leather substitute felt more like vinyl, and genuine leather was only available in higher trims.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover, with changes to the headlights and taillights that were barely noticeable. The GLE 450e test vehicle featured a Twilight Blue metallic finish and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its appearance. The interior exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment. The GLE's sophisticated design and attention to detail set it apart from competitors, providing a robust and luxurious driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine and hybrid system, producing 243 horsepower. It featured a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and standard all-wheel drive, with an electric motor powering the rear axle. The Highlander Hybrid reached 100 km/h in just over eight seconds, slightly slower than gasoline-only SUVs. The hybrid powertrain provided a quick but tepid response from a standstill, with the gasoline engine supplying more power as needed. The CVT's lack of gear shifts resulted in an uninspired drone during acceleration, especially on hills. The ride quality was soft, with the suspension smoothing over bumps, and the cabin remained quiet on highways.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines. The GLE 450e featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivering 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the nine-speed automatic transmission provided smooth gear changes. The GLE's suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly, and its sophisticated steering made it easy to maneuver despite its size.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered well-cushioned front seats with ample adjustments, though the driver's door armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage options included a deep tray under the infotainment screen, a small shelf, and a large centre armrest bin. The second-row seats provided generous head- and legroom, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs for added versatility. The third-row seat was less accommodating, suitable for occasional use by children. Cargo space behind the third row was 453 litres, expanding to 1,370 litres with the seats folded, and 2,387 litres with the second row stowed.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, with excellent outward visibility. Behind the 40/20/40 split-folding second row, the GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space. The optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option available on higher trims. The system was responsive, with logically organized menus and physical shortcut buttons. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with wireless charging available on Limited and Platinum trims. Navigation and an 11-speaker JBL audio system were also standard on these trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and infotainment system. 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid received a five-star overall safety 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 systems generally worked well but could benefit from fine-tuning, particularly the adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, and it received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.