2023 Honda CR-V vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Honda CR-V adopted a more refined and slightly aggressive appearance with its blunt nose, grille, and elongated wheelbase. While it lacked the distinct personality of its predecessor, the conservative design was expected to age gracefully. The CR-V EX-L featured 18-inch alloy wheels and dark-tinted rear privacy glass, enhancing its sophisticated look. Inside, the leather-wrapped seats, steering wheel, and shift knob elevated the interior's quality, complemented by a dashboard inspired by the latest Civic, featuring metal mesh trim and a larger touchscreen infotainment system.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent subtle exterior changes that were barely noticeable. The front grille's Mercedes star logos added a clever touch, while the LED headlights and taillights received minor updates. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, exuded elegance. Inside, the GLE's cabin was a testament to luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide array of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust cabin experience.

The 2023 Honda CR-V retained its turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. While the engine provided ample power for a compact SUV, the continuously variable transmission (CVT) detracted from the driving experience with its droning noise during acceleration. Despite this, the CR-V excelled in ride and handling, with a well-tuned suspension, steering, and brakes. It delivered a smooth and engaging drive, handling various road conditions with ease. The CR-V achieved impressive fuel economy, averaging 8.1 L/100 km on a mountainous route.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e with a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivering a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission ensured seamless power delivery, propelling the GLE 450e from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e excelled in fuel efficiency, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The transition between gas and electric power was nearly imperceptible, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on challenging road surfaces.

The 2023 Honda CR-V boasted a spacious interior, with the second row offering more room than the first. The power-adjustable driver's seat provided comfort, and the redesigned seats cradled occupants. Heated front seats and dual-zone climate control were standard, while heated rear seats were available on higher trims. The CR-V's cargo area offered 1,113 litres of space, expandable to 2,166 litres with the rear seats folded. Storage options were abundant, though some were lined with hard plastic, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both rows. The cabin felt light and airy, aided by the light beige upholstery. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, with the option for a third row in certain trims. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE 450e came equipped with a host of luxury features, including a Burmester surround-sound audio system, ventilated front seats, and a power liftgate.

The 2023 Honda CR-V featured a 7-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The CR-V EX-L upgraded to a 9-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity, SiriusXM, and an upgraded sound system. While the technology was improved, it didn't surpass competitors, and some features were only available on the top trim.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE boasted a pair of 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and infotainment system. The MBUX system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved voice command system. Optional features included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The system was feature-rich, requiring a learning curve, but it provided a comprehensive and advanced tech experience.

The 2023 Honda CR-V came equipped with Honda Sensing, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. New features included a seatbelt reminder, rear-seat reminder, and traffic sign recognition. The CR-V's safety systems met current standards, though there was room for improvement in lane-centring assist. The CR-V received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.

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