2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volkswagen Taos

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minimal, with the most notable updates 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 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, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Volkswagen Taos was designed for appeal and affordability, with a focus on passenger comfort and utility. The Taos Highline trim, tested in Cornflower Blue paint, featured bold 19-inch alloy wheels and standard LED headlights, giving it a stylish and sporty look. Inside, the Taos Highline resembled a cut-rate Audi with its light grey seat and dashboard accents, gloss black trim, and metallic detailing. The Taos offered impressive interior space, nearly matching the larger Tiguan model, making it one of the roomiest subcompact SUVs available.

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 acceleration, handling, and fuel economy. The GLE 450e's turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor produced a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, allowing it 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 2023 Volkswagen Taos featured a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 158 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. The Taos Highline, equipped with 4Motion AWD and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offered up to five driving modes. However, the powertrain response was unpredictable, with occasional surges of torque and delays in response. The Taos averaged 8.8 litres per 100 kilometres during testing, slightly above the official rating. Despite its lack of power, the Taos demonstrated a Germanic driving character, feeling firm and stable on the road. However, the brake pedal response was inconsistent, and the vehicle suffered from wind and road noise at highway speeds.

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 outward visibility was excellent. The GLE 450e offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, with an optional third-row seat available for the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims. The test vehicle included numerous comfort features, such as power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos offered a spacious interior, with the Highline trim featuring real leather seats and cold-weather equipment as standard. The Taos provided ample rear-seat room and comfort, with air conditioning vents and a panoramic sunroof. The cargo area offered 790 litres of space behind the back seat, expanding to 1,866 litres with the rear seat folded down. However, the storage spaces were not lined, leading to potential noise and vibration.

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 feature-rich, with a learning curve, but offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and an improved voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience.

The 2023 Volkswagen Taos came with standard digital instrumentation, with the Highline trim featuring a 10.25-inch display. The infotainment system varied by trim, with the Highline offering an 8-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Beats Audio premium sound system. However, the user experience was hindered by hidden virtual controls, a complicated radio tuning process, and ineffective voice-recognition technology.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included 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 Volkswagen Taos improved its standard safety features, with the Trendline trim including forward collision warning, pedestrian detection, and blind-spot monitoring. The Comfortline added lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. The Taos received decent crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, though they were not perfect.