2024 Acura MDX vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE underwent a subtle exterior makeover that was barely noticeable even to trained eyes. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights received minor updates. 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, scored a seven out of ten for its exterior design. The interior of 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 it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2024 Acura MDX boasted a striking design with a large shield grille, rakish headlights, and a modern lower bumper. Inside, it was high-tech but busy, with a plethora of controls on the centre console. The MDX was available in various trims, including the Type S Ultra, which featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine. Standard features included tri-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic moonroof, and heated seats. The Type S Ultra added a 25-speaker ELS sound system and massaging front seats. While the MDX's cabin wasn't as advanced as the Mercedes-Benz GLS, it excelled in comfort and massaging seat functionality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines. The GLE 450e featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor, producing a combined 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 in hybrid mode, 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 2024 Acura MDX Type S Ultra featured a twin-scroll turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, delivering 355 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque. Power was sent through a 10-speed automatic transmission to Acura's Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive System. The MDX Type S Ultra offered strong acceleration and a comfortable ride, thanks to its adaptive air suspension. The Integrated Dynamics System allowed drivers to choose from various driving modes, including Sport and Comfort. The MDX's steering was responsive, and it had a tight turning radius for its size. The MDX's towing capacity maxed out at 2,268 kilograms.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt light and airy, and outward visibility was excellent. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims and was suitable only for 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 2024 Acura MDX came standard with three rows of seating, with the first two rows offering comfort and support. The third-row seats were smaller and best suited for children. The MDX provided 512 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 1,367 litres with the rear seats folded. Maximum cargo space reached 2,690 litres with both the second and third rows folded. The MDX featured a hands-free power liftgate and a second-row bench with a fold-down centre console. The centre console offered ample storage space, but the centre stack of controls was cluttered and unintuitive.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system was easy to operate but had a learning curve due to its feature-rich nature. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with Bluetooth and an improved 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 accidentally activated, causing minor inconveniences.

The 2024 Acura MDX's infotainment system was its Achilles Heel. The 12.3-inch display was not a touchscreen and was controlled via a touchpad, which was unintuitive. Despite this, the MDX offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa integration, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. The MDX also featured multiple USB ports, a digital instrument panel, and wireless device charging. The clever placement of charging ports and a leather handrest for the touchpad were highlights, but the overall infotainment experience was lacking compared to competitors.

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, but crash tests for the 2024 model were not yet completed.

The 2024 Acura MDX offered a suite of driver assistance and safety features, such as automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The MDX received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from IIHS for the 2022 model year. However, the infotainment system's design could be a distraction for drivers.