2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade stood as Hyundai's flagship SUV, replacing the Santa Fe XL. It showcased a sophisticated and striking exterior design, shedding any past criticisms of being derivative. The Palisade featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and expressive LED lighting, creating a signature look. Its design included a continuous strip of glass surfaces, giving the impression of a floating rear roof. Inside, the Palisade offered an elegant and polished interior with high-quality materials, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and spacious seating arrangements. The fit and finish were near-luxury levels, making it a worthy flagship for Hyundai.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more subtle and less flashy appearance compared to its competitors. However, buyers could opt for more visual drama with the AMG GLS 63 or Maybach versions, which featured unique design elements and larger wheels. The GLS interior, even in its basic form, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-quality feel. While the GLS 450's interior was appropriate for a luxury SUV, it leaned towards a more subdued aesthetic.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, equipped with gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, offered a balance of power and efficiency. Despite not being a fuel economy leader, the Palisade's V6 provided a satisfying baritone rumble and quick acceleration for family use. With a curb weight ranging from 1,991 to 2,004 kilograms, the Palisade handled well, thanks to its four-wheel independent suspension. It could tow up to 2,267 kilograms with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine was assisted by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six provided smooth performance, and the electric assist was well-integrated. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, affecting ride comfort. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, though some competitors offered more.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and versatile interior, making it an excellent minivan replacement. The third row provided comfortable seating and easy access, while the second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable. The Palisade boasted ample storage options, including a generous luggage space of 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with both rows folded. The shift-by-wire gear selector and well-placed controls added to the convenience. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured luxury touches like a dual-panel sunroof and premium Nappa leather upholstery.

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 for easy third-row access, and the GLS offered competitive legroom. Cargo space measured 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 easy loading. However, some ergonomic issues, like the touchscreen's reach and small sun visors, were noted.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess with a standard 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen and a premium Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and multiple USB ports. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added a head-up display and Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system. The digital instrument cluster integrated with turn signals and blind-spot cameras, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It offered Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system, activated by "Hey Mercedes," was user-friendly, while the touchpad controller was less intuitive. The GLS included augmented-reality navigation, though the embedded system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems like blind-spot collision avoidance and adaptive cruise control. It earned top safety ratings, including a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and five stars from the NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. However, advanced driver-assistance features like adaptive cruise control were optional. The GLS lacked crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA at the time of publication.