2023 Toyota Sequoia vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a design that was neither offensive nor particularly striking, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels. The SUV's styling, reminiscent of an athletic sneaker, was complemented by polished brightwork. Inside, the GLE 53 Coupe offered a luxurious experience with high-end materials, including Nappa premium leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech touch, though the lack of traditional controls posed a learning curve for new users. Over time, drivers acclimated to the vehicle's technology, finding it less distracting.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia made a bold statement with its redesigned exterior, drawing inspiration from the Toyota Tundra pickup truck. The Sequoia's industrial-themed interior, especially in the upscale Capstone trim, featured leather, wood, and metallic finishes. A 14-inch Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system dominated the dashboard, while the cream white-over-black two-tone color scheme added a touch of luxury. Despite its upscale appearance, some interior materials reminded occupants of the Sequoia's pickup truck origins. The Capstone trim, priced at $81,365, included features like a rear air suspension and Wind Chill Pearl paint, enhancing its appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, delivering 429 horsepower at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 to 5,800 rpm. The EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, provided additional power and improved fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 19 mpg in combined driving. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering various driving modes like Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. The SUV's performance was further enhanced by an AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes, providing a nimble and composed driving experience.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, a 10-speed automatic transmission, and a hybrid powertrain, producing 437 horsepower at 5,200 rpm and 583 pound-feet of torque at 2,400 rpm. The Sequoia's towing capacity increased to 9,520 pounds, and its payload capacity rose to 1,730 pounds. The new Sequoia was more fuel-efficient, with an EPA rating of 20 mpg with 4WD. The adaptive rear air suspension and 22-inch wheels affected ride quality, with the suspension communicating road impacts unless in Eco or Comfort mode. The Sequoia's steering was slow, and the regenerative braking system felt unresponsive, affecting urban driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five people, though it was more comfortable for four. The sport-bolstered front seats offered numerous adjustments, including heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Comfort upgrades included a four-zone climate control system and a Warmth and Comfort Package with heated armrests.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia excelled on highways, with comfortable front seats, a JBL premium sound system, and a triple-zone climate control system. The second-row captain's chairs lacked sliding functionality, limiting third-row legroom. The third-row seat, mounted above the battery pack, offered limited comfort and legroom. The Sequoia's cargo space was compromised by the hybrid powertrain, with only 11.5 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 86.9 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The adjustable cargo shelf helped maximize space, but the Sequoia's overall utility was reduced compared to its predecessor.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering navigation, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant and an augmented video feature for navigation. The Burmester surround-sound audio system provided an immersive audio experience.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia came with a new Toyota Audio Multimedia infotainment system, featuring a 14-inch touchscreen in most trims. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with connected services offering user accounts and an Intelligent Assistant. The Capstone trim added a 10-inch head-up display and a surround-view camera system. The Sequoia's parking sensors and automatic rear braking system enhanced safety, though the infotainment system experienced occasional glitches.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe was equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and forward automatic emergency braking. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems, such as Traffic Jam Assist and Active Lane Change Assist. The GLE Coupe's safety systems were refined and accurate, though crash-test results were unavailable.

The 2023 Toyota Sequoia included all driver-assistance features as standard, bundled into Toyota Safety Sense 2.5. This package offered forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. While crash-test results were unavailable, the Sequoia's Tundra platform received high ratings from the IIHS.