2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC SUV presented a blend of the new and the familiar. The GLC 300 was redesigned, sharing its platform with the revamped C-Class sedan, while the GLC Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected for the 2024 model year. Despite the GLC 300 being an all-new car, the differences were subtle, with the most noticeable change being the narrower taillights. The grille, roofline, and beltline remained similar to the first-generation GLC, which had been in production since 2016. This continuity in design was not necessarily negative, as the GLC had led the small luxury SUV class for much of its production run, offering a classy and timeless style. The interior of the new GLC received a significant update, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, aligning with newer Mercedes models. The materials quality and construction remained excellent, with a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to rivals like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, and Lexus NX.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, on the other hand, underwent an exterior makeover that was subtle enough to go unnoticed by many. The most notable changes included the Mercedes star logos on the front grille and updates to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e test vehicle, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, showcased a handsome appearance. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury, featuring Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery with natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality and robust-looking cabin. The GLE's interior was spacious and comfortable, with generous headroom and legroom, and a light and airy feel. The GLE's cabin was equipped with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof, making it one of the most luxurious options in its segment.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC was available in the GLC 300 trim, powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a 9-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive as standard in Canada. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in approximately 6.2 seconds. While it provided ample power for highway merging and passing, it wasn't as lively as the BMW X3's four-cylinder powertrain. The brake pedal effort was slightly soft, but the brakes were effective and easy to modulate. The suspension prioritized comfort over sporty handling, delivering a smoother ride than its rivals. The GLC 4Matic Coupe continued with its older four-cylinder turbo engine, producing 255 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 with 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, offering a sportier option with a firmer ride.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the AMG GLE 53 featuring a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced a combined output of 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds, providing swift performance for highway merging and city driving. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections with ease. The GLE's steering was sophisticated, making it feel maneuverable despite its size. The GLE 450e's driving manners were refined, offering an edge over many competitors.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options, featuring synthetic leather upholstery that resembled genuine hides. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in Canada, along with a 64-colour ambient lighting system. The GLC provided sufficient storage space, including a large centre console bin with a wireless charging pad and cupholders. The rear seats offered adequate space for average adults, with slightly limited headroom for taller occupants. The GLC's cargo area measured 620 litres, smaller than some rivals, but still adequate for most needs. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 500 litres and rear headroom by 35 millimetres.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided generous space for adults in both the first and second rows, with ample headroom and legroom. The cabin had a light and airy feel, enhanced by the light beige upholstery. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, comparing favourably with rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims, suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e featured numerous comfort touches, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The cabin was equipped with advanced features like a Burmester surround-sound audio system, augmented reality navigation, and massaging front seats, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch touchscreen with sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, its lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system offered excellent voice recognition, but the voice controls interrupted audio playback. The system lacked physical buttons for audio and climate controls, making it more distracting to use. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a pair of 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen infotainment screen. The system was easy to operate, though feature-rich, requiring a learning curve. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing issues like sudden volume increases.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but it was expected to achieve strong scores based on Mercedes' reputation. The previous GLC received top ratings from both organizations. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive headlights. The optional Intelligent Drive package added features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist.

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 and adaptive cruise control. The GLE's safety systems were unobtrusive during everyday driving. The current generation of GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.