2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE had a design that was considered adequate but not particularly striking. Its exterior, while promising with an aggressive nose and sloping hood, lost its appeal past the A-pillar, resembling older models. Despite efforts to enhance its appearance with flat taillights and a contoured rear, it struggled to match the aesthetic appeal of competitors like BMW or Audi. However, the interior was a different story, offering a luxurious experience with high-quality materials and a bold red and black color scheme. The interior design was praised for its layout and textures, providing a sense of opulence that rivaled high-end SUVs.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma, giving it a rugged look with a trapezoidal grille. However, its side profile introduced a softer character line, which some found visually heavy. The rear design echoed the front grille, but the overall look felt disjointed compared to more cohesive competitors. Inside, the Highlander Hybrid featured an unconventional yet functional design with an asymmetrical dash and practical storage solutions. The Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery was criticized for its impracticality, but other trims offered more conventional materials. The third row was less accommodating, intended for occasional use by children.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its advanced air suspension and turbocharged engines. The GLE 350 featured a 255 hp engine, while the GLE 450 offered a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 362 hp. The AMG GLE 53 boasted 429 hp, and the GLE 580 had a twin-turbo V8 with 483 hp. The top-tier GLE 63 S delivered a staggering 603 hp. The GLE's hybrid system provided additional power and seamless engine start-stop functionality, though it didn't significantly improve fuel efficiency. The GLE's ride quality and handling were exceptional, with a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine producing 243 hp. It featured a CVT and standard FWD, with optional AWD. The Highlander Hybrid's acceleration was adequate, reaching 60 mph in just over 8 seconds. The ride quality was soft, prioritizing comfort over sportiness. The hybrid system provided a smooth transition from electric to gasoline power, and regenerative braking was seamless. The Highlander Hybrid was quieter than many midsize SUVs, offering a comfortable driving experience for families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered spacious seating for five, with an optional third row for seven passengers. Cargo capacity was 34 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 75 cubic feet with seats folded. The Coupe variant had less space due to its design. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a touchpad and simplified interface. The GLE's interior was luxurious, with features like heated armrests and customizable ambient lighting.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable front seats with ample adjustments. The second row was spacious, with sliding and reclining captain's chairs or an optional bench for eight passengers. The third row was less accommodating, suitable for children. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Highlander Hybrid offered practical storage solutions and easy access to the third row.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture controls and a customizable head-up display. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a natural voice assistant. AMG models had a Track Pace app for performance tracking. The GLE's technology was extensive, offering features like semi-automated driving and advanced navigation.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid came with an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 12.3-inch option for higher trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL audio system. The technology was functional but not groundbreaking.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It offered standard features like blind-spot monitoring and driver attention monitoring, with optional adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The GLE's safety systems were comprehensive, with features like Pre-Safe Sound and Pre-Safe Impulse Side.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. The Highlander's safety systems were effective but could benefit from fine-tuning.