2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC maintained a familiar aesthetic, ensuring it did not alienate its loyal fanbase. The redesign was subtle, with changes like repositioned door handles and more aggressive headlights. The taillights were notably different, connected by a trim piece across the back, and the rear design was updated with less chrome and a more pronounced trunk. The GLC Coupe retained its distinctive fastback roof, and the grille differentiated the AMG models from the GLC 300. Inside, the GLC was luxurious, with options like two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash. The interior was gadget-heavy, featuring numerous screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, making it a leader in its class for those who appreciate technology.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 retained its distinctive retro-inspired design, reminiscent of the Lancia Delta, with only minor updates in its mid-cycle refresh. The front fascia saw slight revisions, but the iconic "Parametric Pixel" lights and high rear spoiler remained. The new XRT trim stood out with red tow hooks and digital camouflage cladding, adding a rugged aesthetic. The color palette expanded with new options, and the wheel designs were updated, with the XRT's rally-style wheels being particularly noteworthy. Inside, the Ioniq 5's cabin remained minimalistic and modern, with a revised center console for improved functionality. The XRT trim featured a darker interior with all-weather mats, maintaining the vehicle's clean and open feel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's 385 hp V6. This engine was supported by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The GLC 300, in contrast, offered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The GLC 300 was rear-wheel-drive, with an optional 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLC 43 came standard with AWD. Both used a nine-speed automatic transmission, but the GLC 43's AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed offered faster shifts and better torque handling. The performance suspension provided improved handling but a firmer ride, making it less ideal for commuting but perfect for enthusiasts.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT featured a Terrain Mode button for off-road adventures, with modes for Snow, Mud, and Sand, adjusting throttle mapping and power distribution. The XRT was AWD, while the base SE Standard Range was RWD. The Ioniq 5's battery capacity increased for 2025, offering up to 318 miles of range in RWD configuration, with AWD reducing range slightly. Power output varied, with RWD models producing up to 225 hp and AWD models reaching 320 hp. Despite its weight, the Ioniq 5's instant torque provided a fun driving experience, especially in off-road conditions.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC's cabin was driver-focused, with controls angled toward the driver. Standard features included heated front seats with memory functions, with optional ventilated front seats and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 59.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe was tighter, with 17.6 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 52.6 cubic feet with the seats down.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 addressed previous complaints by adding a rear windshield wiper. The interior featured a movable center console with fore-and-aft cupholders and a wireless charging pad. Heated front seats were standard, with a heated steering wheel available from the SEL trim. The Limited trim offered ventilated front seats and driver's seat memory. Cargo space remained at 26.3 cubic feet, expanding to 58.5 cubic feet with the seats down, plus an additional .85 cubic feet in the frunk. The Ioniq 5 transitioned to the North American Charging System, allowing access to Tesla's Supercharger network.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the MBUX infotainment system, known for its responsive voice commands. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Exclusive trim added navigation and a Burmester 3D surround sound system, while the Pinnacle trim offered a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. An Advanced USB package was available, increasing the number of USB-C ports.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 retained its dual 12.3-inch screens, with improved functionality and faster processing speeds. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto became standard. The XRT trim gained the Bose Premium Audio system, previously limited to the Limited trim. All trims featured standard navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and five USB-C ports. A head-up display was exclusive to the Limited trim, and a wireless charging pad was available from the SEL trim.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, with an "Acceptable" rating for its standard front crash-prevention system. Standard safety features included active brake assist, attention assist, and Pre-Safe, which prepared the vehicle for an imminent collision. Optional advanced driver-assistance systems were available through the Driver Assistance Package.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 maintained its Top Safety Pick+ status from the IIHS and received a five-star rating from the NHTSA. New standard safety features included an enhanced driver attention system and parking-distance warnings. The XRT trim featured a surround-view monitor and blind-spot view monitor. Highway Driving Assist 1 and 2 were available, with the latter offering lane-changing capability.