2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe surprised many with its value proposition. After examining its features, materials, and driving experience, it was clear that the price tag seemed almost too low for what was offered. The Santa Fe's lineup included new gasoline engines and a gas-electric hybrid powertrain, with trim levels ranging from SE to Calligraphy. The exterior received a significant facelift, featuring new running lights, a reworked grille, and a new bumper. Inside, the Santa Fe boasted new colors, patterns, and textures, elevating its market position. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, exuded quality with its premium leather and panoramic glass sunroof, making it feel like a steal at $43,590.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 offered a more subtle, less flashy look compared to its competitors. The base model avoided gaudy grilles and excessive chrome, but other GLS models like the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach version added visual drama with flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior felt luxurious with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-tech feel. However, the suspension left something to be desired, as it exhibited poor body control and excessive motion over bumps.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims came with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid model combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 226 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, coupled with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe's driving modes included Normal, Sport, and Smart, with the latter focusing on fuel efficiency. The turbocharged engine delivered impressive performance, with a fuel economy rating of 24 mpg in combined driving.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This system added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the electric assist was well-integrated. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, making the ride less comfortable. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a spacious interior without a third-row seat, making it ideal for those who didn't need extra seating but wanted more passenger room. The Calligraphy trim featured premium Nappa leather, a suede-like headliner, and quilted stitching, providing a luxurious feel. The rear seat was comfortable and spacious, with air-conditioning vents, USB ports, and sunshades. The cargo space measured 36.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 72.1 cubic feet with them folded down, making it suitable for family road trips.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain's chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, and the cargo space measured 17.4 cubic feet with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS offered one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, making loading and unloading easier. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues detracted from the overall experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was loaded with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, and an 8.5-inch head-up display. The infotainment system featured wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with the basic 8-inch screen, while the 10.25-inch screen offered wired versions and enhanced voice recognition. The Blue Link connected services platform provided a range of features, including remote engine start and climate control adjustments. However, the Santa Fe lacked a WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, responding to the prompt "Hey Mercedes." However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature found in the S-Class sedan.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an impressive array of safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance, Safe Exit Assist, and a rear-occupant alert system. The Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist added to the SUV's safety credentials. The Santa Fe earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS when equipped with LED projector headlights.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with standard safety features such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Additional features included Crosswind Assist, parking assist, and Pre Safe. However, many advanced driver-assistance features were optional, including adaptive cruise control and lane-keep assist. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.