2023 Chevrolet Equinox vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and slight changes were made to the headlights and taillights. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, scored a seven out of ten for its exterior, though the colour and wheels tempted a higher rating. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered ten interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox, while not as futuristic as some competitors, presented an attractive design with a chunky front end that made the grille appear smaller. The gold Bowtie emblem varied in appeal depending on the paint colour, with Blue Glow Metallic and Harvest Brown Metallic being particularly complementary. The Equinox was available in four trims: LS, LT, RS, and Premier, with AWD as an option. Its design shared language with the larger Chevrolet Traverse, and the interior offered ample space with two-tone leather upholstery in the Premier trim. Despite a somewhat dated interior, the Equinox was practical and user-friendly, featuring a traditional PRNDL shift lever and a well-engineered suspension.

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 arriving in 2024. 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 about 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a 77-kilometre electric range. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly. The GLE's steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox featured a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with 175 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. It handled low-speed acceleration well but struggled above 50 km/h, taking about eight seconds to reach highway speed. The Equinox used a six-speed automatic transmission, which contributed to its noisy powertrain. AWD was available but required manual engagement. The Equinox's braking system was upgraded to an electronically assisted brake-by-wire system, providing smooth and predictable braking. Its suspension handled bumps well, and the steering was tight and accurate, making it enjoyable to drive.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered ample space for five adults, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt airy, and visibility was excellent. It provided 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, with an optional third row available in certain trims. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE 450e also boasted advanced features like a Burmester surround-sound system, massaging front seats, and soft-close doors.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox had 847 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,809 litres with the seats folded. Passenger space was ample, with good headroom and legroom. The interior featured higher-quality plastic components, plenty of storage options, and a nearly silent power liftgate. A panoramic sunroof was available on all trims except the base LS.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. It 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 user-friendly but required a learning curve.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox had a simple yet effective infotainment system with a 7-inch or 8-inch touchscreen, depending on the trim. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The system was easy to use, with quick response times and good voice recognition. The Premier trim included a wireless charging pad and an optional Bose audio system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. It received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year.

The 2023 Chevrolet Equinox included standard safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assistance. However, it lacked level two autonomous driving technology. It received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but scored poorly in some IIHS crash tests.