2022 Volvo XC40 vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge adhered closely to traditional automotive design, making it an appealing choice for those transitioning from internal-combustion engines to electric vehicles. From the outside, it closely resembled its gasoline counterpart, with subtle differences like a solid panel in the grill and the absence of tailpipes. The XC40's design was marked by its Scandinavian sensibility, offering a compact yet airy cabin with harmonious lines and premium finishes, making it a genuine luxury SUV.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe presented a more athletic and modern aesthetic. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sporty appearance reminiscent of an athletic sneaker. Inside, the GLE Coupe was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa leather and a dual-screen infotainment system. The cabin was designed with a facade of simplicity, masking the vehicle's complexity, and offered ambient lighting for a more pleasurable driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was powered by a 78-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack, delivering 402 horsepower and 486 pound-feet of torque through its dual electric motors. This setup allowed the XC40 Recharge to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. The vehicle featured regenerative braking and a one-pedal drive option, enhancing its efficiency and driving experience. With a lower centre of gravity due to its battery placement, the XC40 Recharge offered stable handling and a smooth ride. It boasted a range of 359 kilometres on a full charge and could fast-charge from 0-80% in 40 minutes.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, equipped with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine, produced 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. The engine's EQ Boost system provided additional power and improved fuel efficiency, with a consumption rate of 12.7 L/100 km. The GLE Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system, offering multiple driving modes for varied conditions. Its adaptive air suspension and performance brakes ensured a comfortable and dynamic driving experience, with the ability to handle both urban and challenging terrains effectively.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge excelled in form and function, offering clever storage solutions like a front trunk for additional space. Inside, it provided ample cubbies and nooks for modern essentials, with comfortable front seats and a slightly cramped rear middle seat. The XC40 Recharge offered up to 1,628 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded and a towing capacity of 907 kilograms.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, while technically seating five, was more comfortable for four passengers. Its front seats offered numerous adjustments and features like heating, ventilation, and massage. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expandable to 1,790 litres with the rear seats down. The GLE Coupe included luxury upgrades like a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance systems, including Pilot Assist and a heat pump to extend its range. Its infotainment system featured a 9.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, running on the Android Automotive operating system. The system supported Google services, Apple CarPlay, and Bluetooth, with over-the-air updates for software improvements. However, its range reporting by percentage rather than distance could induce range anxiety for some drivers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, offering navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, and a Burmester surround-sound system, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Volvo XC40 Recharge received the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ rating and featured extensive safety equipment, including collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and a high-strength protective cage for the battery. Its new sensor platform integrated cameras, radar, and ultrasonic sensors for enhanced safety, while Connected Safety shared road condition data with other Volvo vehicles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Pre Safe Sound. The optional Intelligent Drive Package added 13 driver-assistance systems, with technologies like Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist. While crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.