2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that was characteristic of modern Mercedes design, with a subtlety that some might find bordering on mundane. However, this understated style aged gracefully, especially when enhanced with upgraded wheels. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured stunning 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille design, polished metal exterior accents, and a lustrous Twilight Blue paint color, creating a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a Bahia Brown over Black interior color scheme, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, making it a luxurious and inviting space.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 maintained its distinctive and retro-inspired appearance, drawing comparisons to the 1986-1991 Lancia Delta. The mid-cycle refresh retained the unique styling elements, including the “Parametric Pixel” headlights and taillights, round wheel arches, and a high rear spoiler. The new XRT trim stood out with red tow hooks and black plastic bumper cladding featuring a “digital camouflage” pattern. The Ioniq 5’s interior remained minimalistic and modern, with minor changes enhancing functionality. The cabin offered an open and uncluttered space, typical of Hyundai’s electric vehicles, with a revised center console and a dark interior for the XRT trim.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, delivering 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain provided smooth and seamless acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system’s integrated starter-generator added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle’s responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system allowed for tailored driving dynamics through Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual modes. The GLS 450 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental Premium Contact tires contributed to the GLS 450’s impressive handling and braking performance.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 XRT, designed for off-road adventures, featured a Terrain Mode button with Snow, Mud, and Sand options, adjusting throttle mapping, wheel slip, power distribution, and regenerative braking. The XRT handled loose sand admirably, with all-wheel drive as standard. The Ioniq 5 offered varying power outputs depending on the powertrain choice, with RWD models producing up to 225 horsepower and AWD models delivering 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. The 2025 model year saw increased battery capacity, allowing for longer ranges, with the AWD XRT achieving 259 miles on a single charge. The Ioniq 5’s instant torque provided a fun driving experience despite its weight.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heating, ventilation, and massage programs for the front seats. The new steering wheel design was comfortable, though touch-sensing controls could be irritating. The Exclusive Trim Package added heated rear seats and a four-zone automatic climate control system. The second-row captain’s chairs provided excellent thigh support, while the third-row seat was snug for adults but suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 17.4 cubic feet behind the third-row seat, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 addressed previous complaints by adding a rear windshield wiper and revising the center console. Heated front seats were standard, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and front seat ventilation available on higher trims. Interior dimensions remained unchanged, with generous legroom and cargo space measuring 26.3 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 58.5 cubic feet with them folded down. The Ioniq 5 transitioned to the North American Charging System, allowing access to the Tesla Supercharger network, and included a Combined Charging System adapter for public and fast charging.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the latest MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console could cause frustration. Despite these issues, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation system.

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, and the Bose Premium Audio system was available on the XRT trim. The Ioniq 5 offered standard navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and multiple USB-C ports, with a clever feature allowing users to choose the functionality of the central USB-C port. A head-up display was available on the Limited trim, and a wireless charging pad was included from the SEL trim level.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with over 20 significant safety features, with adjustable advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) through MBUX. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were praised for their effectiveness. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist systems handled various driving conditions smoothly, with only one instance of the lane-centering assist turning off.

The 2025 Hyundai Ioniq 5 continued to receive high safety ratings, earning a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA. The 2025 model introduced new standard safety features, including an enhanced driver attention system and parking-distance warnings. Highway Driving Assist 1 and 2 were available, with the latter offering lane-changing capability and machine learning to adapt to the driver’s style.