2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Hyundai Kona

The 2022 Hyundai Kona received a significant makeover, enhancing its sophistication with a longer body, revised grille, and sporty character lines. The updated LED lighting and new alloy wheel designs contributed to its modern look. Inside, the Kona's interior was redesigned for a more spacious feel, with a separated instrument panel and centre console. Ambient lighting added a touch of elegance. The introduction of the N Line and Kona N trims brought unique styling elements, such as body-colour cladding and exclusive wheel designs, enhancing the vehicle's athletic appearance. The Kona N further elevated the sporty vibe with features like wide fenders, a front lip spoiler, and N sport bucket seats.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a more subtle and refined exterior, avoiding the flashy chrome of some competitors. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions provided options for those seeking more visual drama, with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the vehicle's modern appeal. Despite its luxury, the GLS's suspension lacked the refinement expected, leading to some discomfort over bumps and in corners.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered a diverse range of powertrains, catering to different performance preferences. The base trims featured a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower, paired with a CVT. The N Line trim provided a more spirited drive with a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, delivering 195 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. The Kona N took performance to another level with a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, producing 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, paired with an N eight-speed wet DCT. The Kona's handling was composed, with a low centre of gravity contributing to its agility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The electric motor added 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six offered smooth performance. However, the suspension lacked the expected luxury refinement, leading to excessive motion over bumps. The GLS had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, though some competitors offered more.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona, while compact, offered ample front-seat comfort with good headroom and legroom. However, rear-seat occupants faced challenges with limited space and small door openings. Cargo space was tight, with 544 litres available with all seats up, expanding to 1,296 litres with the rear seats folded. Towing was not recommended for the Kona.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided a spacious interior with a standard seven-seat configuration. The second-row seats could slide and fold for easy access to the third row, offering excellent legroom. Cargo space was 355 litres with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured power-folding seats and a power tailgate for convenience. However, some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen being difficult to reach.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona featured an 8-inch display as standard, with a 10.25-inch touchscreen available on higher trims. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Kona N Line and Kona N offered additional tech features, including a premium audio system and digital instrument cluster. Hyundai BlueLink provided connected services for added convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, which was particularly effective. The GLS included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional features like a Burmester audio system and head-up display. However, the touchpad controller was found to be cumbersome.

The 2022 Hyundai Kona offered standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assistance, and driver attention warning. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and blind-spot warning. The Kona received high safety ratings, with five stars from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings from the IIHS.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.