2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 presented a more understated and refined appearance compared to its flashier competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Mercedes opted for a subtle design, avoiding the ostentatious grilles seen on models like the BMW X7. However, for those seeking a more dramatic look, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions offered enhanced visual elements such as flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. Inside, the GLS 450 maintained a luxurious feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting, though it lacked some of the more extravagant features found in higher trims. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, providing a high-quality yet robust interior experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Kia Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models showcased refreshed styling with updated headlights, taillights, and new wheel designs. The Telluride offered a range of new paint and interior colours, enhancing its visual appeal. The X-Line and X-Pro trims featured unique design elements like raised suspensions and all-terrain tires, giving them a rugged off-road look. Inside, the Telluride boasted a spacious and comfortable cabin with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable seats. The interior updates included a digital instrumentation panel and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, providing a modern and functional driving environment.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was equipped with a 3.0-litre turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The engine was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and assisted by the Mercedes EQ Boost mild-hybrid system, which added 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque in short bursts. The GLS 450's inline-six engine offered smooth performance, and the electric assist was seamlessly integrated. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, leading to excessive motion over bumps and in corners. The GLS 450 had a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, which was slightly less than some competitors.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-litre V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The Telluride offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow, with an AWD system featuring a low-speed Lock setting for off-road conditions. The Telluride X-Line and X-Pro models had raised suspensions and improved off-road capabilities, including a new Downhill Brake Control system. The Telluride's towing capacity was 2,495 kilograms with the X-Pro trim, and it provided a smooth and comfortable ride on highways, with some wind noise at higher speeds.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the second-row bench with captain’s chairs. The GLS provided ample second-row legroom, thanks to its long wheelbase, and offered 355 litres of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 2,400 litres with the second and third rows folded. The GLS featured one-touch power-folding seats and a power tailgate, but the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery and power-adjustable front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were heated and ventilated, and the third-row seat offered more comfort than many competitors. The Telluride provided 601 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,455 litres with both rear rows folded. The SUV featured a “smart” power tailgate with proximity-sensing and an automatic closing function, enhancing convenience for loading and unloading cargo.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity, and navigation. The system offered multiple control options, including voice recognition, a touchpad controller, and steering wheel touchpads. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, allowing for hands-free operation. However, the touchpad controller was overly sensitive, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2023 Kia Telluride featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and navigation. The system supported over-the-air updates and allowed for the pairing of two devices simultaneously. The Telluride included Driver Talk and Quiet Mode features, a wireless phone charger, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. New digital-key technology and a Full Display rear-view mirror were also available, enhancing convenience and safety.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, lane-keep assist, and parking assist. Additional features like adaptive cruise control and advanced driver-assistance systems were optional. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.

The 2023 Kia Telluride provided an extensive list of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian and cyclist detection, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Telluride also offered advanced systems like Highway Drive Assist and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. The IIHS rated the 2023 Telluride as a Top Safety Pick+, its highest rating, while NHTSA ratings were unavailable.