2022 Volkswagen Taos vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was positioned as a compact SUV, bridging the gap between subcompact and compact crossovers. It competed with models like the Kia Seltos, Jeep Compass, and Subaru Crosstrek. The Taos was available in Trendline, Comfortline, and Highline trims, with a single engine option. The base model offered a choice between front-wheel drive and 4Motion all-wheel drive. The Taos's design was consistent with Volkswagen's lineup, featuring roof rails, dark grey plastic cladding, and skid plates. However, the interior was criticized for its hard plastic materials, though it offered soft surfaces where necessary. The Highline trim boasted two-tone perforated leather and an upscale dashboard.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update, with changes to the grille, headlights, and taillights. The GLE 450e test vehicle featured Twilight Blue metallic paint and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. Inside, the GLE 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 cabin experience. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with ample headroom and legroom, making it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. While the torque figure was impressive, the turbocharger's delayed response led to a lag in throttle response. The seven-speed DSG dual-clutch transmission paired with the 4Motion AWD system offered spirited performance but was criticized for erratic shifting. The standard 8-speed automatic transmission provided smoother driving but was limited to front-wheel drive. The Taos Highline 4Motion in Sport mode improved drivability, but turbo lag and harsh shifting remained issues. Despite these drawbacks, the Taos offered a pleasant driving experience with responsive steering and effective brakes. However, its ground clearance was lower than some competitors, limiting its off-road capabilities. Fuel efficiency was rated at 8.5 L/100 km in combined driving.

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 an electric motor, delivering a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission provided seamless gear changes, and the GLE 450e accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. Fuel economy was rated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode, with an electric range of 77 kilometres. The GLE's transition between gas and electric power was smooth, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections effectively. The GLE's steering was precise, making it easy to maneuver despite its size.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a spacious cabin, with ample seat-track travel and height adjustment in the front seats. The Highline 4Motion trim included heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel. The rear seat provided generous legroom and comfort, with rear air conditioning vents. Cargo space varied depending on the drive system, with 790 litres available in front-wheel-drive models and 705 litres in 4Motion models. The Taos featured a centre pass-through, making it suitable for ski trips.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided comfortable seating for five, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt airy, thanks to light beige upholstery and excellent outward visibility. Cargo space measured 630 litres behind the second row, comparable to rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE offered a range of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos came equipped with a Digital Cockpit instrument cluster and a standard 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Higher trims featured an 8-inch touchscreen with MIB3 software, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a BeatsAudio premium sound system. However, the infotainment system was criticized for its complexity and slow response. Voice recognition technology was unreliable, and the user experience required improvement.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with two 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel were occasionally problematic.

The 2022 Volkswagen Taos offered a range of safety features, but many were only available on higher trims or as part of extra-cost packages. These included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Highline trim offered additional features like lane-departure warning and Travel Assist. Emergency Assist was a notable feature, responding to an inactive driver by bringing the SUV to a safe stop. However, the Taos had issues with reverse automatic braking, which could be turned off via the infotainment system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with 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.