2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia, a stalwart in the SUV market, carried forward its second generation into its 14th year without significant redesigns. Its exterior design, characterized by a modestly sized grille and elegant wheel arches, maintained a classic appeal amidst evolving SUV trends. The Sequoia's dimensions—1,956 mm in height, 2,030 mm in width, and 5,210 mm in length—contributed to its imposing presence, complemented by a 3,099 mm wheelbase and 32 cm of ground clearance. Inside, the Sequoia's interior felt dated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen that seemed out of place in a modern SUV. However, the interior's build quality was typical of Toyota, with high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship ensuring durability and comfort for families.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received subtle exterior updates that might have gone unnoticed by many. The GLE's design featured clever details like Mercedes star logos on the grille and updated LED headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded sophistication. Inside, the GLE's cabin was a testament to luxury, with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery and natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a plethora of interior customization options, including 10 colour choices and five trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was known for its durability and reliability. The Sequoia's truck roots provided a payload capacity of up to 608 kg and a towing capacity of 3,221 kg. Despite its weight of approximately 2,721.5 kg, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities thanks to its body-on-frame construction and four-wheel independent double-wishbone suspension. However, its fuel consumption ratings were less impressive, with 18.5 L/100 km in the city and 13.9 on the highway.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, producing a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via a nine-speed automatic transmission, allowing the GLE 450e to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 4.1 L-e/100 km, and it could operate as an EV at speeds up to 140 km/h. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the GLE's suspension provided a comfortable ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, offering spacious seating across all three rows with ample headroom and legroom. The SUV featured three-zone climate control, a power moonroof, and heated front seats. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 535 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,886 litres with the third row folded, and a maximum of 3,401 litres with both the second and third rows folded.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in the first and second rows. The GLE 450e's cabin felt airy, aided by light beige upholstery and excellent outward visibility. Behind the second row, the GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space. The GLE's interior was equipped with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Additional luxury features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. However, it offered standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims included a 14-speaker JBL premium audio system. Despite its technological shortcomings, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technologies like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a sophisticated MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system supported touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive steering wheel buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved voice command system. The GLE also offered advanced features like a head-up display and augmented reality navigation, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from NHTSA and IIHS but was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, including pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor, rear cross-traffic alert, and Toyota's STAR safety system, ensuring a comprehensive safety package.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive array of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and active lane-keep assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were pending.