2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Lexus TX

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, though the colour and wheels tempted a higher score. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered ten interior colour choices and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2024 Lexus TX, based on the Toyota Grand Highlander, presented a distinct luxury SUV appearance. The TX's styling was more conservative compared to other Lexus models, appealing to those previously turned off by the brand's design. The TX 350 Executive package included striking 22-inch silver wheels, enhancing its presence. The TX came in three model series: TX 350, TX 500h F Sport Performance, and TX 550h+ plug-in hybrid, with prices ranging from $72,036 to $87,486. The TX 350, likely the volume seller, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine and standard AWD. The Ultra Luxury package added premium interior features, though the dark Peppercorn interior felt too sombre despite the panoramic sunroof. The TX 350's interior was luxurious enough for the Lexus badge, though the cabin's darkness was a drawback.

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 a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered 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 77-kilometre electric range. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension absorbed road imperfections effortlessly. The GLE's steering was sophisticated, making it maneuverable despite its size.

The 2024 Lexus TX 350 featured a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated to 100 km/h in about eight seconds, though it felt quicker due to its torque. The TX 350's fuel economy was rated at 10.3 litres per 100 kilometres, slightly better than the old RX L. The ride and handling were well-balanced, with a firm yet comfortable suspension. The steering was accurate, and the interior remained quiet on the highway. The brake pedal felt soft but was easy to modulate for smooth stops.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin felt airy, aided by light beige upholstery. Visibility was excellent, and the GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims, suitable only for children. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. The GLE 450e boasted numerous luxury features, including a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and heated and cooled cupholders.

The 2024 Lexus TX addressed previous shortcomings in Lexus's three-row SUVs. The TX 350 test unit featured premium leather and suede upholstery, with heated and ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel as standard. The second-row bench seat was comfortable, though captain's chairs were available. The third-row seat accommodated adults, offering better leg support and visibility. The TX provided 572 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,625 litres with the third row folded and 2,746 litres with the second row down. Storage options were plentiful, though some lacked lining, potentially causing noise.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was user-friendly, though feature-rich, requiring 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 steering wheel controls occasionally caused issues, such as unexpected volume changes.

The 2024 Lexus TX included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a digital rearview mirror. The Executive packages added a head-up display, surround-view camera, and semi-autonomous parking assist. The Lexus Interface infotainment system featured a 14-inch touchscreen, with Drive Connect offering cloud-based navigation and a digital assistant. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, with seamless connectivity. The TX offered free 10-year subscriptions to Service Connect and Safety Connect, and a three-year Remote Connect subscription. The optional 21-speaker Mark Levinson audio system provided impressive sound quality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included active blind-spot assist, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though 2024 crash tests were pending.

The 2024 Lexus TX featured the Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Proactive Drive Assist offered additional braking and steering assistance. The TX also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a safe exit assist system. Optional features included parking sensors, front cross-traffic alert, and traffic jam assist. The traffic jam assist system provided hands-free driving at low speeds on approved highways.