2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a continuation of its second generation, showcased a mature design that had remained largely unchanged since its last major overhaul in 2008. Despite its age, the Sequoia maintained a classic exterior with a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, avoiding the oversized trends seen in other SUVs. Its dimensions were substantial, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. The interior, however, felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in the modern SUV market. Nevertheless, the Sequoia's interior was built with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity, making it suitable for families.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe presented a more contemporary and luxurious design. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sleek appearance, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe was opulent, featuring high-end materials like Nappa leather and a Dinamica suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment system added a high-tech feel, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. The interior design cleverly masked the vehicle's complexity, though it required some acclimatization for new users. Overall, the GLE Coupe offered a modern and sophisticated look and feel.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, producing 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential, and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its impressive payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Despite its weight of approximately 2,721.5 kilograms, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and independent double-wishbone suspension. However, its fuel consumption ratings were less impressive, with 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 13.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, delivering 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine was equipped with EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that enhanced performance and fuel efficiency. The GLE Coupe's performance was further enhanced by a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, and adaptive damping control air suspension. The SUV offered various driving modes, including Sport+ for a more exhilarating experience. The GLE Coupe's performance was impressive, with nimble handling and a comfortable ride, although its size and weight were noticeable on challenging roads. Fuel consumption was rated at 12.5 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. It featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats as standard. The cargo area was versatile, with 535 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both rear rows down. The Sequoia's interior storage options were generous, with a large centre console, glove compartment, and door pockets.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe, while technically seating five, was more comfortable for four passengers. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo area offered 655 litres of space, expanding to 1,790 litres with the rear seats folded. The GLE Coupe included luxury features like a four-zone climate control system, heated armrests, and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing the overall comfort and experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was somewhat outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it included standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offered a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system and navigation. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technologies like turbocharging or electrification, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe boasted the advanced Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester surround-sound audio system, and an augmented video feature for navigation. The GLE Coupe's technology was cutting-edge, offering a seamless and intuitive user experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and automatic high beams. It also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and the STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the Sequoia offered a comprehensive set of safety features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 additional driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, with features like Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.