2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2024 Hyundai Palisade

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance with its modern design, which, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in style. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and a Twilight Blue paint that stood out against the trend of blacked-out aesthetics. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior with natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment typical of Mercedes.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade offered distinctive styling that set it apart from other family SUVs. The Calligraphy Night Edition trim, with its blacked-out appearance and Hyper White paint, added a unique flair. The interior featured a black theme with leather and artificial suede inserts, providing a sophisticated feel. The Palisade's design choices, including an artificial suede headliner and quality upholstery, made it resemble a luxury SUV, appealing to those who appreciated its bold look.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering smooth and swift performance. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system provided versatility with Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual driving modes. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and achieved 21 mpg in combined driving, though our test yielded 19.9 mpg.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered several driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Smart, and Snow. The Palisade's AWD system was adept at distributing power on various terrains, though it was best suited for less challenging paths. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and an EPA rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, with our test averaging 18.8 mpg.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats provided excellent comfort, while the second-row captain’s chairs offered ample legroom. However, accessing the third row was cumbersome, and space was tight for adults. Cargo capacity was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with seats folded.

The Hyundai Palisade provided a range of seating options, from cloth to premium Nappa leather with microfiber inserts. The Calligraphy Night Edition featured comfortable seats with massage functions for the driver. The Palisade offered configurable storage, a hands-free power tailgate, and generous cargo space, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The third row was more spacious than many rivals, with standard heating and air conditioning vents.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays. The system offered improved graphics and intuitive operation, though touch-sensitive controls could be frustrating. The Burmester surround-sound system with Dolby Atmos provided excellent audio quality. MBUX included advanced features like augmented reality navigation and natural voice recognition.

The Hyundai Palisade came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, supporting Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and Bluelink+ connected services. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. The Harman Kardon sound system delivered impressive audio, and additional tech included a digital key, remote parking, and a head-up display. Bluelink+ offered connected services at no cost for original owners.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS featured over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) through MBUX. The systems provided smooth and subtle operation, enhancing driver confidence. The GLS handled various driving conditions with ease, though there was a minor issue with lane-centering assist on a specific road.

The Hyundai Palisade was equipped with SmartSense, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Highway Driving Assist offered hands-on driving support, and the SEL Premium package added features like front parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though some NHTSA tests were incomplete.