2023 BMW X1 vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minor, with the most noticeable being the clever Mercedes star logos on the front grille and slight modifications to the headlights and taillights. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and equipped with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, presented a handsome appearance. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with its Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a variety of choices, including 10 colour options and five trim selections, making it one of the most robust-looking cabins in its segment.

The 2023 BMW X1, while not revolutionary, evolved with a stronger and more refined design. The larger, squarer kidney grille and flush door handles gave it a modern touch. The X1's colour palette expanded to 13 options, including five new ones, with our tester in Portimao Blue. The X1 offered 18-inch wheels as standard, with options for 19- and 20-inch wheels. The xLine design added silver accents, while the M Sport Package incorporated body-coloured elements and Shadowline features. Inside, the X1's cabin felt premium, with the BMW Curved Display dominating the dash. The SensaTec 2.0 seat coverings were comfortable, and the M Sport Package added sport seats and an M leather steering wheel. The Premium Essential Package included features like a panoramic moonroof and auto-dimming mirrors.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 350 4Matic, GLE 450 4Matic, and AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, with the GLE 450e PHEV joining the lineup. 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 accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was rated 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 provided a smooth ride even on rough roads. The GLE's steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size, and the AMG model offered even quicker reflexes.

The 2023 BMW X1 received a power boost with its 2.0-litre twin-turbo four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 6.4 seconds and tow up to 1,587 kilograms. The new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission provided a more engaged driving experience, especially with the M Sport Package's paddle shifters. The Adaptive M Suspension minimized body roll, and the X1 felt agile, akin to a hatchback. The X1's fuel economy was rated at 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 7.0 on the highway, and 8.4 combined.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt airy, and visibility was excellent. The GLE 450e provided 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims and was suitable only for young children. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The GLE also boasted a range of luxury features, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and heated and cooled cupholders.

The 2023 BMW X1 offered increased space compared to its predecessor, with impressive headroom and legroom. The X1 provided 727 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats and 1,619 litres with them folded down. Heated seats were part of the Premium Essential Package, which also included a heated steering wheel, panoramic sunroof, and wireless device charging. The wireless charging pad was cleverly designed to hold the phone securely. The X1's interior was well-appointed, with a focus on practicality and comfort.

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 was user-friendly, though it required some time to master its features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with 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 occasionally caused issues with volume control.

The 2023 BMW X1 came with the BMW Curved Display, integrating a 10.7-inch infotainment screen and a 10.25-inch driver information display. The infotainment system was responsive, though slightly cluttered. Voice commands worked well for certain functions, but the navigation system required precise inputs. The X1 included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the Premium Enhanced Package adding a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. The X1 featured four USB-C ports and an optional 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. The vehicle was operated using a start/stop button and a toggle-style gear selector.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, and adaptive cruise control. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.

The 2023 BMW X1 introduced standard active blind-spot monitoring with an exit warning function. The front-collision warning system included pedestrian and cyclist detection. The Driving Assistant Professional package offered features like speed limit assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. The X1 also offered a 360-degree surround-view camera system and Active Park Distance Control. The updated Parking Assistant Plus used reference points to assist with parking.