2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Dodge Durango

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. Mercedes offered a wide array of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Dodge Durango maintained its familiar yet attractive design, avoiding the trend of oversized grilles. Its clean, car-like styling was complemented by forward-leaning headlights and Dodge's signature "racetrack" taillights. The SRT 392 and SRT Hellcat models featured unique styling elements, such as a Viper-like hood and distinctive wheels, but remained subtle. The Durango offered various appearance packages, including the Blacktop and Hemi Orange packages, allowing for customization. The interior, while not as distinctive as the exterior, provided a comfortable environment with available Nappa leather upholstery and heated seats in higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the GLE 450e PHEV standing out for its balance of performance and efficiency. 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 impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered a variety of powertrains, starting with the 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing 293 horsepower. The 5.7-litre Hemi V8, standard on the R/T trim, delivered 360 horsepower and a classic V8 rumble. The SRT 392 model featured a 6.4-litre Hemi V8 with 475 horsepower, while the SRT Hellcat boasted a 6.2-litre supercharged V8 with 710 horsepower. The Hellcat accelerated from zero to 100 km/h in about 3.5 seconds. Despite its size, the Durango Hellcat provided an exhilarating driving experience, with minimal wind and tire noise on highways. The adaptive-damping suspension and Brembo brakes ensured control over the immense power.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery, and offered excellent outward visibility. The GLE 450e featured 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came equipped with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered seating for six or seven, with standard configurations including a three-seat second-row bench and a two-seat third-row bench. The Citadel and SRT models featured second-row captain's chairs. The Durango provided competitive interior space compared to other three-row midsize SUVs, with 487 litres of cargo space with all seats in place. The Durango excelled in towing capacity, with V6 models capable of towing up to 2,812 kilograms and V8 models up to 3,946 kilograms. However, the lack of a power-folding third row was a drawback in higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with dual 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, such as unexpected volume changes.

The 2023 Dodge Durango offered an 8.4-inch touchscreen with wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto on lower trims, while higher trims featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen with wireless connectivity. The Uconnect infotainment system was responsive and easy to use, with added personality in the SRT models. The Performance Pages app provided performance data, and a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system was available on higher trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and traffic sign recognition. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were pending.

The 2023 Dodge Durango received mixed safety ratings. It earned "Good" marks in some IIHS tests but received a "Marginal" score in the driver-side small overlap front test. The NHTSA awarded it a four-star overall safety rating. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, but many advanced features were not standard.