2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Mazda CX-30

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that was barely noticeable even to trained eyes. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor changes. 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, was particularly striking. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered ten colour choices and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, had a distinctive design with excessive charcoal-coloured plastic on the lower body, which some found excessive. However, its overall appeal was undeniable, with short overhangs, a long hood, and a rakish roofline. The interior felt a class above, with clear gauges, a well-integrated infotainment screen, and dual-zone climate controls. The CX-30 offered four versions in Canada, with two engine options: a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder and a turbocharged four-cylinder with up to 250 hp. The test model featured a unique Zircon Sand paint over Terracotta and Black interior upholstery, which divided opinions but worked well on SUVs.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the GLE 450e PHEV being a standout. 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 zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads. The GLE's steering was sophisticated, making it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30, equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. The power delivery was smooth, and the CX-30 felt like a sports car in its class. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with an observed 13.3 L/100 km on a mountainous route. The CX-30 was fun to drive, with excellent visibility and standard safety features. It handled well on back roads and offered a comfortable ride at highway speeds. The CX-30's ground clearance and AWD made it capable of handling challenging trails.

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 visibility was excellent. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive in 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 with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The test vehicle also featured advanced technology and luxury touches.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30's interior boasted quality materials and logical controls. The driver and front passenger enjoyed comfort, but the back seat was cramped. The CX-30 offered 572 litres of cargo space behind the back seat, with the flexibility to adjust the load floor. Folding the back seat down provided 1,280 litres of volume. The CX-30's interior design included gloss black trim, metallic accents, and exposed stitching. The test vehicle featured Terracotta leather seats with simulated Black suede inserts, adding a splash of colour. The power-adjustable driver's seat and heated front seats enhanced comfort.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly but required a learning curve. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" 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 overly sensitive, causing occasional issues.

The 2024 Mazda CX-30 GT and Suna trims featured a new 10.25-inch infotainment display with touchscreen functionality for smartphone mirroring platforms. The screen's placement was far from the driver, but it represented an improvement. Mazda's system used a combination of controls to reduce driver distraction, but the lack of natural voice recognition was a drawback. All CX-30s in Canada included a two-year subscription to Mazda Connected Services. The GT and Suna trims also offered USB-C ports, a wireless smartphone charger, and a Bose premium audio system.

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 Mazda CX-30 included blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assistance. Higher trims offered adaptive headlights, parking sensors, and a surround-view camera system. The CX-30 received a five-star rating from the NHTSA in most assessments and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.