2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that managed to blend practicality with opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was intended to replace the G-Class but instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a more comfortable alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS, with its softened angles and sleek lines, appeared less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, it boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric design. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of features from remote keyless entry to a 13-speaker Burmester sound system, with various packages to enhance comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a new era for Hyundai's electrified mobility, diverging from the original Ioniq's hybrid roots to establish itself as a standalone EV brand. The Ioniq 5's exterior was a study in minimalism, with its Parametric Pixel design evoking a retro-futuristic aesthetic reminiscent of 8-bit graphics. This design extended to the lighting elements, creating a concept car feel. Inside, the Ioniq 5 embraced a "Living Space" theme, offering a serene and spacious cabin with sustainable materials. The interior featured a moveable centre console and a flat floor, enhancing its versatility. The Ioniq 5's design was both innovative and practical, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, delivering 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC stepped up with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, producing 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC AWD system. The AMG GLS 63, however, was the pinnacle of performance, equipped with a hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine generating 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, despite its hefty weight of 2,694 kilograms. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes, including Sport and Sport+, allowed for a dynamic driving experience, while its EQ Boost system provided an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque when needed.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, available in Canada with two drive configurations and three powertrains, offered a different kind of performance. The base model featured a single 125-kW rear-mounted electric motor, delivering 168 horsepower and a range of 354 kilometres. The Preferred long-range variant increased power to 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 488 kilometres. The AWD version, with a dual-motor system, offered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 414 km. The Ioniq 5's performance was more about efficiency and comfort than raw power, with a focus on range and driving dynamics. Its Sport mode added a touch of excitement, but the Ioniq 5 was primarily designed for a smooth and quiet ride, with features like adjustable regenerative braking and noise-reducing tires enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS excelled in providing spacious and comfortable seating across its three rows. With standard seven-passenger seating, or optional six-passenger with second-row captain's chairs, the GLS offered ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as spacious, was still suitable for adults, a rarity among three-row SUVs. The GLS boasted 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and a total of 2,400 litres with both rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a large centre console and spacious in-door bins, enhancing its practicality.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5, built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), maximized interior space with its long wheelbase of 3,000 millimetres. Despite its hatchback appearance, the Ioniq 5 offered a roomy cabin with a total interior volume of 3,786 litres, surpassing competitors like the Ford Mustang Mach-E and Volkswagen ID.4. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort over cargo space, with 770 litres of rear cargo capacity. Its interior design, focused on the "Living Space" theme, featured a moveable centre console and a flat floor, allowing for flexible seating arrangements. The leatherette seats provided comfort and support, making the Ioniq 5 a pleasant environment for both drivers and passengers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the advanced MBUX infotainment system, characterized by a massive touch screen and a simple trackpad for navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. MBUX's voice-control system, activated by saying "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," allowed for complex commands, enhancing the user experience. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system's intuitive design made managing the GLS's extensive technology more accessible.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 showcased cutting-edge technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. This allowed the Ioniq 5 to charge other devices and vehicles, in addition to supporting ultra-fast charging. The Ioniq 5's multimedia features included a redesigned Blue Link app, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and AI-powered voice recognition. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment system were elegantly designed with anti-glare coating, ensuring clear visibility. The Ioniq 5's technology suite was both innovative and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety technologies included automatic parking assist, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional features such as lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring further enhanced safety. The GLS also included a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system, ensuring a high level of protection for occupants.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included lane keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and forward collision avoidance. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, adapted to the driver's habits through machine learning, providing a personalized driving experience. The Ioniq 5 also offered a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though its practical use was limited. While official safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested the Ioniq 5 would perform well in safety assessments.