2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2024 Hyundai Kona was designed with an electric vehicle (EV) focus, evident in its sleek, modern appearance. Its grille resembled the Ioniq 5, featuring a single-piece design typical of EVs. The front end was dominated by a slim LED headlight, part of Hyundai's "seamless horizon" styling. Despite being nearly six inches longer than its predecessor, the Kona maintained its recognizable silhouette. The doors showcased a new "parametric surface" design, and the black body cladding on various trims was more pronounced. Standard LED lighting and varying wheel sizes added to its updated look. Inside, the cabin was revamped with a driver-oriented center stack, a relocated gear shift, and a curved display housing both driver-information and infotainment screens.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE, last redesigned in 2020 with a facelift in 2024, offered a distinct look among Mercedes SUVs. It shared some bulk with other models but had a rounded profile reminiscent of its predecessors. The GLE featured squared-off wheel arches and a wide stance, with a sharply tapering side glass and windshield. The styling, while not the most attractive in the lineup, adhered to Mercedes' brand identity. For 2025, new paint colors and Manufaktur interior options were introduced, enhancing personalization. The interior boasted upscale features like Nappa leather upholstery, ambient lighting, and a high-end audio system, creating a luxurious atmosphere.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine for the SE and SEL trims, producing 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT. The N-Line and Limited trims featured a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, delivering 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, now with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Paddle shifters were available on higher trims. The Kona offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional $1,500. AWD reduced fuel economy estimates slightly.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered six powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid and AMG variants. The GLE 350 featured a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The GLE 450 4Matic had a 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 375 hp, while the GLE 450e 4Matic combined a turbo-four with electric assist for 381 hp. The GLE 580 4Matic boasted a twin-turbo V8 with 510 hp. AMG models included the GLE 53 with 429 hp and the GLE 63 S with 603 hp. Despite impressive powertrains, the GLE felt larger than it was, affecting maneuverability.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona's increased length improved rear-seat legroom to 38.2 inches and cargo capacity to 25.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet with seats folded. The cabin featured practical storage solutions, though the center console was limited in size. Trim-specific seating materials included cloth, leather/suede, and H-Tex leatherette. Ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on the Limited trim.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered two-row and three-row configurations, though third-row specs weren't published. The GLE provided competitive headroom and slightly more second-row legroom than rivals. Cargo space was 33.3 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with seats folded. The center console offered reasonable storage, and the GLE had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona featured a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on lower trims. An OTA update was promised for higher trims. The Kona included wireless charging, a Wi-Fi hotspot, and a Bose stereo system. Dual 12.3-inch screens were optional on higher trims, and Hyundai's Bluelink services were standard.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE had dual 12.3-inch screens for instruments and infotainment, with MBUX offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multiple access methods included a touchpad, buttons, and voice recognition. AMG models had additional drive modes and settings. Off-road displays and a "transparent hood" function enhanced capability.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona came with standard safety features like Safe Exit Warning, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. Adaptive cruise control was standard on higher trims, and the Limited trim included advanced monitoring systems. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist impressed with smooth lane-keeping.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered standard safety features like forward collision warning and blind-spot monitoring. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control and other advanced features. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though front-crash prevention ratings varied.