2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Land Rover Defender

A subtle refresh for the 2024 model year (launched in 2023) keeps the popular Mercedes sport-utility competitive against a wide roster of rivals, which include the BMW X5, Genesis GV70, Cadillac XT6, Acura MDX, and Volvo XC90, to name just a few.

Changes between the previous GLE and the 2024 model year consist primarily of a subtle redesign of the front grille (look closely and you’ll see it's now filled with tiny Mercedes-Benz star logos), reprofiled headlights and taillights, an updated infotainment system, and optional off-road-themed air suspension system that can raise the GLE 3 centimetres to clear obstacles. It can also shimmy this Mercedes sport-ute back and forth to help get it unstuck over tricky terrain.

Specific to our testing purposes, the 2024 GLE also ushers in a new plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant called the GLE 450e 4Matic. As the last part of the name suggests, like every 2024 GLE, all-wheel drive (AWD) is fitted as standard. Yet the big news is what’s under the hood of this new model, namely a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an electric motor and 23.3-kWh lithium-ion battery pack.

While fully electrified vehicles presently grab the most automotive headlines, a week spent on a test drive of the GLE 450e highlighted how easily this luxurious PHEV sport-utility adapts to all sorts of driving situations.

The Land Rover Defender has a rich history, tracing back to its roots as a go-anywhere vehicle designed for the most demanding conditions. The original Defender was revered for its rustic charm and capability, but when it was redesigned and reintroduced to North America for the 2020 model year, it was a far more sophisticated vehicle.

The 2024 Defender is perfectly poised to capitalize on the surging popularity of overlanding, offering both the capability and the aesthetic appeal that enthusiasts crave. Whether you’re embarking on a long-distance expedition or simply outfitting your vehicle to look the part, the Defender delivers with style and substance.

Verdict: For the 2024 model year, the Defender introduces a host of new features, enhancing its already impressive lineup. Notably, the availability of one of its powerful V8 engine options has been expanded, providing drivers with even more choices when it comes to performance and capability. These updates ensure that the Defender remains at the forefront of the SUV market, offering unparalleled versatility and driving enjoyment.