2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that was easy to overlook, even for seasoned observers. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor changes. 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, was particularly striking. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the most robust and high-quality in its segment.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L maintained its classic style while extending its length by over 30 centimetres. The Hydro Blue model with the High Altitude package featured blacked-out elements and dark gray 21-inch wheels, creating a bold appearance. The interior of upper trims impressed with a mix of materials, though not all were Mercedes-grade. The Grand Cherokee L's cabin was classy, with features like a polished black dash, metal gear selector, and diamond-patterned stitching. While lower trims lacked some of these details, the overall look and feel were superior to competitors like the Ford Explorer and Nissan Pathfinder.

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, delivered 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 sophisticated steering made it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine produced 293 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, but it was considered underwhelming. The optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8, with 357 horsepower and 390 lb-ft of torque, was recommended for towing, offering a max towing capacity of 3,265 kilograms. The V8's fuel economy was rated at 16.7 L/100 km city, 10.9 highway, and 14.1 combined. The Grand Cherokee L's chassis provided confident handling, and the air suspension allowed for adjustable ground clearance. The 4WD system was standard in Canada, with three different systems available on various trims.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, and visibility was excellent. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, though its optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The GLE 450e also boasted a range of luxury features, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and soft-close doors.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L's extended wheelbase provided more legroom for second-row passengers, with standard captain's chairs. The third row was best suited for children. Cargo space was generous, with 481 litres behind the three rows, 1,330 litres behind the second row, and 2,407 litres with both rows folded. The Grand Cherokee L offered good visibility and a range of features, including a power liftgate, dual-pane panoramic sunroof, and a comprehensive infotainment system.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, though it required some learning. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved voice command system. Optional features like a head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L came with an 8.4-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 10.1-inch touchscreen on higher trims. The Uconnect 5 system was generally easy to use, though some legibility issues were noted. The Grand Cherokee L offered a range of tech features, including night vision, Active Driving Assist, and a passenger screen that could play video and control navigation. The optional McIntosh sound system provided good audio quality, though it lacked surround imaging from the rear speakers.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee L earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for models built after May 2023. It also received five stars in most NHTSA tests, except for rollover, where it scored four stars. Standard safety features included forward emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included front cross-traffic braking and night vision.