2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

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, its aesthetic was timeless, especially with the addition of 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 new Bahia Brown over Black interior color scheme, complemented by natural-grain Grey Oak, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, making it a luxurious space to spend time in.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona maintained its fresh and distinctive appearance, even though it remained visually unchanged from the 2024 model. Its largely flush, single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars gave it a futuristic look, while the Kona's curves, bulges, and sharp angles created a satisfactory visual appeal. The newer model was noticeably larger, offering more interior space and a more assertive road presence. The Kona N Line S and N Line trims featured sportier design elements, including body-colored bumpers and cladding, enhancing its dynamic stance. The interior remained unchanged from 2024, with a solid construction and airy feel, aided by the drive selector's placement on a column beneath the wiper stalk.

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 lb-ft of torque. This setup provided smooth and swift acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system's integrated starter-generator delivered an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, enhancing the vehicle's responsiveness. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system ensured a sublime driving experience, with selectable driving modes for tailored dynamics. The GLS 450 offered a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and a combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg, though real-world testing yielded 19.9 mpg. The adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its athleticism, while the brakes performed admirably under duress.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two gas-powered engine options. The SE, SEL, and SEL Convenience trims featured a 2.0-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. For more power, the N Line S, N Line, and Limited trims came with a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, though it could feel flat at low revs. All-wheel drive was available across the lineup, offering active on-demand drive to the rear axle and a dedicated Snow mode. AWD models also featured a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension setup.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious interior with supple leather surfaces, heating and ventilation, massage programs, and a wide range of adjustments for the front seats. The new steering wheel was a delight to grip, though its 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 Kona offered 25.5 cubic feet of cargo capacity with the rear seats in place, expanding to 63.7 cubic feet when folded. Rear legroom measured 38.2 inches, with 38.3 inches of headroom, providing adequate space for passengers. The front seats featured a generous range of movement, and the steering wheel was adjustable for reach and height. The drive selector's relocation to a stalk on the steering column created a sense of space, with excellent in-car storage options. Upholstery varied by trim, with cloth on lower trims and Alcantara or H-Tex leatherette on higher trims. Heating and ventilation features progressed from basic single-zone air conditioning to dual-zone automatic climate control with rear air vents.

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

The 2025 Hyundai Kona featured a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. Higher trims included wireless smartphone charging and a digital key. The SEL Convenience trim and above offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while N Line and Limited trims featured an eight-speaker Bose premium audio system. Hyundai’s Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air software updates.

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

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety technology, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. Higher trims added features like Highway Driving Assist and enhanced Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist. Limited trim included parking assistance technologies. The Kona was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.