2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, which, while understated, promised longevity. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents, all complemented by a Twilight Blue paint. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment. The GLS 450 was the entry-level model, powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. Upgrades included the AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, bringing the MSRP to $97,730.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona, designed as an EV first, showcased a modern aesthetic with a grille reminiscent of the Ioniq 5 and a single-piece LED headlight. Despite its increased size, the Kona maintained a familiar silhouette, with new creased door surfaces and substantial black body cladding. The Kona lineup featured standard LED lights and varying wheel sizes across trims. Inside, the cabin was updated with a driver-oriented center stack and a relocated gear shift, enhancing space. The curved display housed driver-information and infotainment screens, while vents and controls were refined for a modern feel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, offered smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Its mild-hybrid system provided an instant torque boost, enhancing responsiveness. The nine-speed automatic transmission and 4Matic all-wheel-drive system allowed for customizable driving modes. The GLS 450 excelled in towing, with a capacity of 7,700 pounds, and achieved a fuel economy of 21 mpg combined. The adaptive air suspension and massive tires contributed to its athletic performance, while the brakes ensured smooth stops. Off-road capabilities were enhanced with an Off-Road menu and package options.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder for SE and SEL trims and a turbocharged 1.6-liter for N-Line and Limited trims. The base engine produced 147 horsepower, while the turbo offered 190 horsepower. The new eight-speed automatic transmission replaced the previous DCT. The Kona's handling was intuitive, with nimble steering, though pickup was slightly slow. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost, affecting fuel economy slightly.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS, with the AMG Line package, featured sporty styling that could hinder entry and exit. The front seats offered comfort with leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage options. The steering wheel, though delightful to grip, had touch-sensing controls that could be irritating. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone climate control system. The third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with up to 84.7 cubic feet available.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona's increased length improved rear-seat legroom to 38.2 inches and cargo capacity to 25.5 cubic feet with seats up. The cabin featured a handy shelf and a guardrail for phone stability. The Kona offered cloth seats on lower trims and leather/suede on higher trims. Ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard on the Limited trim. The power hands-free liftgate enhanced cargo access.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and themes but had touch-sensitive areas that could cause accidental changes. Despite this, MBUX was intuitive, with excellent voice recognition and augmented reality navigation.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona included a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen standard across the lineup. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were promised via OTA updates. The Kona featured a Wi-Fi hotspot, Bose stereo system, and multiple USB-C ports. Dual 12.3-inch screens were available on higher trims, and Hyundai’s Bluelink services were standard.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with over 20 safety features, adjustable through MBUX. The ADAS provided effective alerts and smooth operation, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist performing well on various terrains.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona offered standard safety features like Safe Exit Warning and blind-spot collision avoidance. Adaptive cruise control and advanced monitoring systems were available on higher trims. The Highway Driving Assist suite provided smooth lane-keeping and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.