2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Volkswagen Atlas

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas carried forward the design updates from its 2021 predecessor with only minor modifications. Available in four trim levels in Canada—Trendline, Comfortline, Highline, and Execline—the Atlas offered a range of features and pricing. The Execline trim, which was the top-tier option, came with R-Line design elements, including 21-inch alloy wheels that enhanced its upscale appearance. Despite its bold and boxy exterior, the Atlas's wheel choices often failed to complement its overall styling. Inside, the Atlas boasted a simple yet premium design, though the use of low-cost materials, such as hard and shiny plastics, detracted from its quality. The interior's lack of refinement was further highlighted by the absence of linings in storage areas, leading to unwanted noise and vibration.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The GLE featured clever design elements like the Mercedes star logos on the grille and updated headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, stood out for its elegant appearance. Inside, the GLE 450e 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, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin. The GLE's interior was a testament to its class and sophistication, making it a strong contender in its segment.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas offered a choice between a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and a 3.6-litre V6 engine. The turbocharged engine produced 235 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, requiring premium fuel for optimal performance. It was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Motion all-wheel drive. However, the turbo-four's towing capacity was limited to 907 kilograms, and its fuel consumption was rated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The V6 engine, available on higher trims, delivered 276 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Despite its power, the V6's acceleration was leisurely, and its fuel consumption was higher at 12.2 L/100 km. The Atlas offered various driving modes and an Active Control system for different conditions, but its ride quality was affected by its suspension tuning and wheel choices.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, as well as a plug-in hybrid option. The GLE 450e combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 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. It offered a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone and could operate as an EV at speeds up to 140 km/h. The GLE's transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and its suspension provided a smooth and comfortable ride, even on challenging road surfaces.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas excelled in interior space and comfort, accommodating seven passengers with ample head and legroom, even in the third row. The low step-in height made entry and exit easy, and the rear side-window sunshades added convenience. The Atlas offered generous cargo space, with 583 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,572 litres with the third row folded, and 2,741 litres with the second row down. However, the unlined storage areas resulted in unwanted noise from items sliding around.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a spacious and comfortable cabin for five passengers, with generous headroom and legroom. The light beige upholstery contributed to an airy feel, and the GLE offered excellent outward visibility. Behind the second row, the GLE provided 630 litres of cargo space, which compared favourably to some rivals. While the GLE offered an optional third row, it was only suitable for young children. The GLE 450e came equipped with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The GLE's interior was packed with luxury touches, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas featured the Volkswagen Digital Cockpit instrument cluster as standard, with an 8-inch display on lower trims and a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The Atlas Trendline had a basic 6.5-inch touchscreen, while other trims offered the next-generation MIB3 infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Atlas also included Car-Net connected services and a MyVW smartphone app for remote access and assistance. However, the infotainment system's user experience was marred by slow loading times and cumbersome navigation controls.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system offered touch commands, a control pad, and touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The GLE's optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation received praise for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel occasionally caused unintended volume changes.

The 2022 Volkswagen Atlas came equipped with a comprehensive list of safety features, including automatic post-collision braking, Front Assist, Side Assist, and Rear Traffic Alert. Higher trims added adaptive cruise control, parking sensors, and an adaptive front lighting system. However, the Atlas's Lane Assist technology had issues with interpreting lane markings, leading to potential safety concerns. The Atlas received decent crash-test ratings but did not earn a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a robust lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive and effective, providing peace of mind during everyday driving. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.