2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2023 Volvo XC60

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that might have gone unnoticed by many. The changes were minimal, with the most notable 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. The interior offered a wide range of customization options, including 10 interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the most robust-looking cabins in its segment.

In contrast, the 2023 Volvo XC60 maintained its reputation for style and design, aging gracefully with its classic Scandinavian minimalism. The XC60 Recharge model, with its Thunder Grey paint and blacked-out exterior trim, looked striking on 20-inch wheels. The interior continued the theme of elegance with black leather, wood trim, metal accents, and ambient lighting. The Ultimate package added opulence with features like a crystal gear selector knob and a panoramic sunroof. Despite its compact size, the XC60's interior felt spacious, thanks to the large sunroof and supportive seat cushions.

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 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 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds, delivering a smooth and swift performance. The GLE 450e's electric mode allowed for silent highway driving at speeds up to 140 km/h, with a range of 77 kilometres on a full charge. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride even on rough roads.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 Recharge featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, delivering a combined 455 horsepower and 423 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds, making it exceptionally quick. The XC60 Recharge offered multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Power, and Pure, allowing drivers to tailor the driving experience. In Pure mode, the XC60 achieved an electric range of 61 kilometres before switching to hybrid operation. The XC60's handling was responsive, especially in Power mode, while the one-pedal driving function enhanced regenerative braking. The XC60 Recharge averaged a fuel economy of 4.3 L/100 km during testing.

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 and excellent outward visibility. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive for its class. 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 Volvo XC60, being a compact SUV, was best suited for four passengers, although it could accommodate five if needed. The front seats provided outstanding comfort, with Nappa leather upholstery, heating, and ventilation. The rear seats were also comfortable, though legroom was limited for taller passengers. The XC60 offered 730 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,792 litres with the seats folded down. The cargo area was well-designed, with practical storage solutions and a ski pass-through panel for added versatility.

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 feature-rich, offering 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be inadvertently activated, causing minor inconveniences.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 came with a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 9-inch portrait-style touchscreen. The infotainment system was Google Built-in, providing access to Google Assistant, Google Maps, and Google Play. It supported both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with a user-friendly interface and excellent graphics. The voice-recognition system was impressive, handling various commands effectively. The optional Bowers & Wilkins sound system delivered exceptional audio quality, though it came at a premium price.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, 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 pending.

The 2023 Volvo XC60 was equipped with Volvo's advanced safety features, including Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The system performed well on highways, providing smooth and accurate assistance. Oncoming Lane Mitigation helped avoid collisions with oncoming vehicles. The XC60 B5 and B6 mild-hybrids received top safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS, with the XC60 Recharge expected to perform similarly.