2024 Hyundai Kona vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE maintained a familiar aesthetic, with subtle updates that were easy to overlook. The front grille featured clever Mercedes star logos, and changes to the headlights and taillights were more noticeable when compared directly to the previous model. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights added a modern touch. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, was particularly striking. Inside, the GLE exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide array of interior colour choices and trims, ensuring a high-quality cabin experience.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona showcased a design that emphasized its electric vehicle roots, with a grille reminiscent of the Ioniq 5 and a single-piece LED headlight dominating the front. Despite its increased size, the Kona retained a recognizable silhouette, with new creased "parametric surface" doors and more substantial black body cladding. The N Line trim featured body-coloured wheel arches, adding a sporty touch. Standard LED lighting and a seamless horizon taillight enhanced its modern appeal. Inside, the Kona's cabin was updated with a driver-oriented centre stack and a new gear shift location, creating more space. The curved display housing both driver-information and infotainment screens was a standout feature.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, catering to various preferences. The GLE 450e, with its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, delivered a combined 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. This power was managed by a nine-speed automatic transmission, allowing the GLE 450e to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The hybrid mode provided an estimated fuel economy of 10.5 L/100 km city, 9.1 highway, and 9.9 combined, with a 77-kilometre electric range. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension offered a smooth ride even on rough roads. The GLE's steering was sophisticated, making it feel maneuverable despite its size.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona retained its predecessor's engine lineup, with a naturally aspirated 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine for the Essential and Preferred trims, and a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder for the N Line. The base engine produced 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with a CVT, while the turbo engine offered 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, now with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The N Line featured paddle shifters for a sportier experience. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive available for an additional cost. Fuel economy varied slightly between trims, with the N Line AWD consuming 9.7 L/100 km city, 8.3 highway, and 9.1 combined.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in both the first and second rows. The cabin felt airy, aided by light beige upholstery, and offered excellent outward visibility. Cargo space behind the second row was 630 litres, competitive with rivals like the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The GLE's optional third-row seat was limited to certain trims and best suited for children. Comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. Additional luxury touches included a Burmester audio system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona benefited from increased rear-seat legroom, now at 970 millimetres, and improved headroom. Cargo capacity expanded significantly to 723 litres with the rear seats up and 1,803 litres with them folded down. The cabin featured a handy shelf on the passenger's side of the dash and a wireless charging pad with a "guardrail" to keep devices in place. Seating options varied by trim, with cloth seats on lower trims and leather/suede combinations for the N Line. Ventilated front seats were available for the first time on the N Line with the Ultimate package, enhancing comfort.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main touchscreen. The system was user-friendly, though it required some time to master its features. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved voice command system. Optional features included a head-up display and augmented reality navigation. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive, occasionally causing unintended volume changes.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona came with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display, an upgrade from the previous model. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on all trims except the N Line with the Ultimate package, which required wired connections due to compatibility issues with the onboard navigation system. The Kona featured a standard six-speaker system, with a Bose upgrade for the N Line's Ultimate package. Dual 12.3-inch displays were included with the N Line, and OTA update capability was standard. Hyundai's Bluelink connected services and a digital key feature were also available.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and active lane-keep assist. The GLE received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS for the 2022 model year, though crash tests for the 2024 model were pending.

The 2024 Hyundai Kona included standard safety features such as Safe Exit Warning, blind-spot collision avoidance, and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance. High-beam assist and adaptive cruise control were standard from the Preferred trim, with additional features like Surround View Monitor available on higher trims. Hyundai's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth lane-keeping assistance, enhancing the Kona's safety credentials.