2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid

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 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 sophisticated 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 range of customization options, including 10 interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the most high-quality cabins in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid marked a significant departure from its predecessors with a more assertive and truck-like design. The new model was longer and wider, giving it a muscular stance. The CR-V retained its classic D-pillar taillights, now featuring three L shapes for a modern look. The Hybrid Touring trim, tested in Canyon River Blue, sported black roof rails, mirrors, and wheels, along with dual chrome exhaust finishers. The interior followed the design direction of the 2022 Civic and 2023 HR-V, with high-quality materials and attractive contrast stitching. The honeycomb grille surrounding the climate control vents added a premium touch to the cabin.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the GLE 450e PHEV being a standout. 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 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 provided a smooth ride even on rough roads. The GLE's sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured a new hybrid powertrain combining a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering 204 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque. This made it the most powerful CR-V to date. The CR-V Hybrid was equipped with a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and offered four drive modes: Snow, Sport, Normal, and Econ. The updated Real Time All-wheel Drive system could send up to 50% of engine torque to the rear wheels. The CR-V Hybrid's fuel economy was estimated at 6.0 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 6.9 on the highway, and 6.4 combined. The new "B" shifter position allowed for increased regenerative braking, enhancing fuel efficiency.

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 light and airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. 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 with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid's larger exterior translated to more interior volume, with 1,028 litres of cargo space with the rear seats up and 2,030 litres with them folded. The Touring model featured a hands-free power tailgate, and all CR-Vs had wide-opening rear doors for easy access. Rear seat legroom increased to 1,042 millimetres, providing ample space for passengers. The reclining rear seats offered eight positions, and headroom measured 970 mm in both rows. The CR-V's interior included a cubby for smartphones, eight cupholders, and a console with best-in-class storage.

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 "Hey Mercedes" 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 could be inadvertently activated, causing the music volume to spike unexpectedly.

The 2023 Honda CR-V Hybrid offered a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment display with physical volume and tuning knobs, while the EX-L and Hybrid Touring trims had a 9-inch touchscreen with a volume knob. The CR-V Hybrid was well-equipped with USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, dual-zone climate control, and heated front seats. The Hybrid Touring trim included a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Sirius XM, HD radio, Wi-Fi capability, a wireless charging pad, and a 12-speaker Bose Premium audio system. The smart navigation system optimized fuel efficiency based on the route.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup 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 Honda CR-V Hybrid featured the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including adaptive cruise control, collision mitigation, and lane-keeping assist. New safety features for 2023 included traffic jam assist, traffic sign recognition, and low-speed braking control. The CR-V Hybrid received a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. The vehicle's structure was 15% stiffer, and new airbags and dashboard patches provided additional protection.