2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson presented a fresh design on a new platform, offering a long-wheelbase model in the U.S. with two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. Its front showcased Hyundai's new vehicle face, featuring a parametric grille that cleverly concealed LED daytime running lights, Bi-LED headlights, and LED front turn signals. The illuminated lights formed a distinctive shape reminiscent of the Aztec Spirit Bird's wings. The Tucson's side profile mirrored the Hyundai Elantra's design, with a silver D-pillar creating a floating roof effect. At the rear, the Tucson sported LED-illuminated toothy taillights, except for the base model, giving it a standout appearance among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim, the Tucson rode on 17- or 19-inch wheels, with high-end trims featuring premium fascias, skid plates, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain- and odor-resistant cloth seats, and a spacious, uncluttered dashboard design.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 offered a more understated look compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450's interior, though basic by GLS standards, exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing a high-quality feel. While the GLS 450's interior was luxurious, it was more subdued, appealing to those seeking quality without ostentation.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain options: a 2.5-liter direct-injected four-cylinder engine and a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine. The ICE engine produced 187 horsepower and 178 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The hybrid powertrain delivered 226 combined horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, making it more powerful than competitors like the Ford Escape Hybrid and Honda CR-V Hybrid. The Tucson Hybrid was praised for its performance, especially during elevation changes, and offered impressive fuel efficiency with 37 mpg combined. The Tucson also provided an all-wheel-drive option, standard on the hybrid and available on ICE models, performing well in off-road testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine with a nine-speed automatic transmission, assisted by the EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The engine produced 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an electric motor adding 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine 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 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson, a budget-friendly compact SUV, offered a well-appointed interior comparable to its competitors like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V. It featured a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with an eight-way version available on higher trims. The Tucson's new platform provided more passenger and cargo space, with a 74.8 cubic-foot cargo area. The rear seats offered ample legroom, and the cabin comfortably accommodated a family of four. The Tucson's interior was designed for practicality, with a 60-40 split-folding rear seat and a dual-level cargo floor.

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, offering excellent legroom. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. While cargo space was slightly behind larger competitors, the GLS made loading easy with power-folding seats and a power tailgate. Some ergonomic issues were noted, such as the touchscreen's reach and the center console's grab handles.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a six-speaker audio system. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen, though requiring a wired connection for smartphone integration. The Tucson's tech features included a digital instrument cluster, satellite radio, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The touchpoints on the center console were responsive, but the narrow steering wheel controls were less user-friendly.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The GLS offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was praised for its ease of use, while the touchpad controller was found to be overly sensitive. The GLS lacked the augmented-reality navigation feature available in other Mercedes models, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication. It featured the Hyundai SmartSense Safety Feature suite, including forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keep assist, and a driver attention monitor. Additional safety features were available, such as blind-spot warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. Hyundai offered a comprehensive warranty package, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The GLS had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA at the time of publication.