2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a strikingly sporty and sleek design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design elements, such as the highback tail with a lip spoiler doubling as a lightbar, and wheels pushed to the chassis corners, contributed to its dynamic look. The voluptuous curves, akin to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The EV6's headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake-like trim on the bumper, emphasized its electric nature. The wedgy profile, with an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler, combined with the smooth lower body, especially in matte silver paint, made it a head-turner.

Inside, the EV6 featured a futuristic interior with dual 12-inch screens on a linear dash, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather. Ambient lighting enhanced the sci-fi feel, while the hockey-puck shifter and digital controls set it apart from basic Kia models. The design prioritized a car-first, computer-second approach, making it enjoyable to drive. The EV6's industrial design, with features like recessed lights and a hidden rear charge port, kept it engaging and highlighted the importance of thoughtful car design.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE, while receiving an exterior makeover, maintained a subtle evolution in its design. The changes were so understated that they might have gone unnoticed by many. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor updates. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were part of the package. The GLE 450e, finished in Twilight Blue metallic and riding on 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, stood out for its handsome appearance, though these options' availability in Canada remained uncertain.

Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. The interior offered a choice of 10 colours and five trims, including brushed aluminum and brown linden wood. The GLE's cabin was one of the highest quality and most robust-looking in its segment, providing a sense of class and sophistication.

The 2022 Kia EV6, in its GT-Line e-AWD configuration, delivered an impressive 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque from its dual electric motors. With a 77.4 kWh battery, it accelerated to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, showcasing its agility and power. The upcoming GT trim promised even more with 576 hp and a sub-3.5-second 0-60 time. The EV6's torque delivery was seamless, with the rear motor driving the wheels until full power was needed, at which point the front motor engaged. The regenerative braking system offered over eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in the maximum I-Pedal setting.

However, the EV6's range was disappointing in cold weather, with a significant drop in efficiency. Despite using Kia's Winter Mode and efficient heat pump, the EV6 struggled to meet its estimated range. Charging was fast, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging stations often fell short of this capability. The EV6's performance powertrain was exciting, but its energy consumption in cold weather was a drawback.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, with the GLE 450e standing out for its balance of acceleration, handling, and fuel economy. The turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor produced a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque, delivering a swift 0-100 km/h time of 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres, with a range of 77 kilometres in electric mode. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The GLE 450e's steering was sophisticated, making it feel maneuverable despite its size. The AMG model offered even quicker reflexes, but the GLE 450e's driving manners gave it an edge over competitors. Overall, the GLE 450e performed nearly flawlessly, with a quiet cabin and supple suspension.

The 2022 Kia EV6 reinvented core functions with features like pop-out door handles, paddle shifters, and a twisting rotary shifter. The climate controls and stereo shortcuts were combined in a thin touchscreen, which could be frustrating to use while driving. The EV6 offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and the onboard power generator was a useful feature.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with generous headroom and legroom. The cabin had a light and airy feel, with excellent outward visibility. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which compared favourably with rivals. The optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and was suitable only for young children. The GLE 450e came with power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a panoramic sunroof, and a power liftgate. Additional features included a Burmester surround-sound audio system, massaging front seats, and heated and cooled cupholders.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with quick and easy settings adjustments. However, it lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, requiring a wired connection. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots and surrounding vehicles, while the 360-degree cameras provided clear views. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the highest trim included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and remote parking assist.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens. The system was easy to operate, though it required some learning. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved voice command system. The optional head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be accidentally activated, causing unexpected volume changes.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety test results but offered impressive safety tech, including forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims added blind spot monitoring and 360 cameras.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional features included active lane-keep assist and evasive steering assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS based on the 2022 model year.