2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Mazda CX-50

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was so understated, even experts found it challenging to notice the changes. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights were slightly altered. 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. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, making it one of the most high-quality cabins in its segment.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 was a more rugged counterpart to the CX-5, with a design that was fresher and more robust. It was lower, wider, and longer than the CX-5, with a stretched wheelbase. The CX-50's broad-shouldered proportions were emphasized by square wheel arches and fake air vents. Available in three trim levels in Canada, the Meridian Edition stood out with all-terrain tires, a black hood graphic, and pronounced rocker-panel trim. The interior featured an earthy colour palette and Terracotta leather upholstery. The infotainment screen was positioned on a shelf, and the material quality was impressive for a non-luxury brand. However, the CX-50's aspirations to be more upscale were still a work in progress, with some features reminding buyers of its traditional market position.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, with the AMG GLE 53 featuring a 3.0-litre turbo inline-six. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, produced 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, 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 Mazda CX-50 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, with turbocharging available on higher trims. The base engine produced 187 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, while the turbo engine delivered up to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93-octane gasoline. A six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive were standard. The CX-50 offered Normal, Sport, and Off-road driving modes, with a Towing mode on turbo models. The CX-50's handling was more aligned with other models in its segment, and the all-terrain tires on the Meridian Edition added noise and limited grip. The CX-50 was well-mannered overall, but the roof platform added wind 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 offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to certain 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. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 had similar passenger space to the CX-5, with slightly less headroom and more legroom. It offered 889 litres of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 1,595 litres with them folded. The CX-50's cargo space was slightly less than the CX-5's but more than some competitors. The available power liftgate improved cargo access, but the cargo area wasn't ideal for dirty or bulky items. The interior featured a sensible layout with adequate storage space, and the rotary infotainment controller was easy to use. However, the Meridian Edition could have benefited from more durable materials.

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 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 inadvertently activated, causing issues like sudden volume changes.

The 2024 Mazda CX-50 came with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen controlled by a rotary controller and buttons. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with higher trims offering wireless phone charging and a Bose audio system. The touchscreen-free interface required adjustment but provided physical feedback. The infotainment system felt dated, with basic functions and plain graphics. However, it was suitable for buyers who preferred simplicity and used Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

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-50 was named a 2023 Top Safety Pick by the IIHS, receiving top scores in most crash tests. However, it received a lower score for nighttime front-crash prevention. The NHTSA had not published complete safety ratings for the 2024 model. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control, with optional features like a 360-degree camera system.