2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Lexus RX 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 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 range of interior colour choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, particularly the RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance models, showcased a more distinct design. The RX 350h Luxury test vehicle, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch alloy wheels, maintained a subtle hybrid identity. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. Inside, the RX 350h Luxury featured Macadamia semi-aniline leather and Ash Bamboo wood trim, while the RX 500h F Sport Performance had a sportier all-black interior with artificial suede and dark gray aluminum trim. The RX's interior adopted a cleaner, more minimalistic design, with contemporary textures and ambient lighting.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 450e, which combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed the GLE 450e to accelerate 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 Lexus RX Hybrid offered two main hybrid options: the RX 350h and the RX 500h F Sport Performance. The RX 350h, with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, produced 246 horsepower and 233 lb-ft of torque, achieving a combined fuel economy of 6.5 L/100 km. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about 7.5 seconds. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre engine, delivered 366 horsepower and 406 lb-ft of torque, reaching 100 km/h in around 6 seconds. However, its fuel economy was less impressive at 8.6 L/100 km. The RX 500h featured an adaptive damping suspension and rear-wheel steering, enhancing its dynamic performance.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The GLE 450e offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. The GLE's interior boasted numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLE's cabin was equipped with advanced technology, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented reality navigation.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered comfortable seating with ten-way power-adjustable front seats in the RX 350h Luxury trim and eight-way power-adjustable seats in the RX 500h F Sport Performance. The RX 350h featured premium leather and a three-zone automatic climate control system. The RX's cargo space was improved, with 838 litres available behind the rear seat and 1,308 litres with the back seat folded down. The RX's interior design was clean and minimalistic, with a focus on contemporary textures and ambient lighting.

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 supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The GLE also offered an optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, the Lexus Interface, which required subscription services for full functionality. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and featured a cloud-based navigation system with an Intelligent Assistant. However, the system had some drawbacks, such as limited screen menu views and reflections on the display. The RX also offered a head-up display with dual-function touch-sensing control pads on the steering wheel.

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

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid featured Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, which included advanced driver assistance systems such as motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, and intersection turn assistance. The RX also offered Proactive Driving Assist, which maintained a safe following distance and recharged the battery through regenerative braking. However, some features, like the front cross-traffic alert system, had limitations when wearing polarized sunglasses.