2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 vs 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 maintained its distinctive retro-inspired design, reminiscent of the 1986-1991 Lancia Delta, particularly in its high-performance N variant. The mid-cycle refresh brought subtle changes to the lower front fascia, while retaining the iconic “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, adding a touch of ruggedness. Exclusive colors like Ultimate Red and Cosmic Blue Pearl were introduced, alongside new wheel designs that emphasized rally style, especially the 18-inch wheels on the XRT trim.

Inside, the IONIQ 5’s cabin remained largely unchanged, preserving its open and minimalistic design. The center console was revised for better functionality, and the new XRT trim featured a darker interior with all-weather floor mats and debossed XRT logos on the seats. The interior continued to offer a modern feel typical of Hyundai’s electric vehicles, with a focus on simplicity and practicality.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of versions, with prices spanning from $63,600 to $134,500. Assembled in Alabama, the GLE 350 was the entry-level model with rear-wheel drive and a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. At the higher end, the AMG GLE 63 S Coupe featured standard 4Matic all-wheel drive and a hand-built twin-turbo V8 engine. Our focus was on the standard GLE body style, specifically the GLE 450 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and mild-hybrid technology.

The GLE 450 came equipped with the Exclusive Package and the new-for-2026 Manufaktur Edition Package, which included exclusive paint, 21-inch wheels, and a Night Package with blacked-out trim. The interior was elegantly detailed, featuring matte-finish wood, metallic accents, and sophisticated digital displays. The cabin was luxurious, with a focus on comfort and quality materials, making it a standout in the luxury SUV segment.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 XRT was designed with off-road capabilities in mind, featuring a Terrain Mode button on the steering wheel that allowed drivers to cycle through Snow, Mud, and Sand modes. These modes adjusted throttle mapping, wheel slip, power distribution, and regenerative braking. The XRT handled off-road conditions well, with its all-wheel drive system providing confidence and control. On-road performance was expected to be similar to the Limited trim, with the added road noise from all-terrain tires being a potential factor.

The IONIQ 5 offered a range of powertrain options, with rear-wheel drive models producing 168 to 225 horsepower, depending on the battery choice. All-wheel drive models featured dual motors, delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle’s range varied based on configuration, with the single-motor RWD models achieving up to 318 miles on a single charge, while the AWD XRT offered 259 miles of range.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology, producing 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The vehicle offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual. The GLE 450 was capable of towing up to 7,700 pounds, making it a versatile option for those needing both luxury and utility.

Despite its off-road capabilities, the GLE 450’s standard suspension left much to be desired in terms of ride quality. The selective damping setup allowed for excessive body motion, making it less enjoyable on mountain roads. The steering was overassisted in Comfort mode and lacked precision in Dynamic mode. The sport braking system performed well under spirited driving but felt grabby in typical driving situations. The GLE 450 achieved an EPA-rated 21 mpg in combined driving, making it a decent option for long-distance travel.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 addressed previous complaints by adding a rear windshield wiper as standard. The interior featured a movable center console with fore-and-aft cupholders and a wireless charging pad. Heated front seats were standard, with additional features like a heated steering wheel and front seat ventilation available on higher trims. The IONIQ 5 offered generous interior dimensions, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. Cargo space was competitive, with 26.3 cubic feet available with the rear seats up and 58.5 cubic feet with them folded down. The transition to the North American Charging System (NACS) allowed IONIQ 5 owners to access the Tesla Supercharger network, enhancing charging convenience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided a comfortable and quiet cabin, with firm yet supportive front seats featuring heating and “energizing seat kinetics.” The Exclusive Package added ventilated front seats and Nappa leather upholstery. The back seat offered generous legroom and headroom, though the seating position felt low relative to the window sills. A third-row seat was available as an option, adding versatility for those needing extra seating. The GLE offered 33.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the back seat, expanding to 74.9 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down. Thoughtful storage solutions and a power rear liftgate added to the vehicle’s practicality.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 featured a pair of 12.3-inch screens for its infotainment system and digital instrument cluster, with improved functionality and faster processing speeds. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a Bose Premium Audio system available on higher trims. The vehicle offered standard navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and multiple USB-C ports for connectivity. A head-up display was available on the Limited trim, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE utilized the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays with lush graphics and minimal reflections. The system included a biometric authentication system and a digital voice assistant. The Exclusive Package added a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented-reality video for navigation. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and connected services. The GLE’s infotainment system offered a user-friendly experience with a focus on luxury and convenience.

The 2025 Hyundai IONIQ 5 received top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, with a comprehensive suite of safety and driver-assistance features. New additions for 2025 included an enhanced driver attention system, reverse and forward parking-distance warning, and a surround-view monitor on higher trims. Highway Driving Assist 1 and 2 were available, offering adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist functions.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered standard safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitors. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. The GLE’s Active Emergency Stop Assist and touch-sensing steering wheel rim were notable safety features. However, some driver aids, like the route-based speed-adjustment feature, were found to be inconsistent and frustrating.