2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior update that was easy to overlook, even for seasoned observers. The front grille featured a clever design with Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights saw minor changes. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e test model, finished in Twilight Blue metallic with 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, was particularly striking. Inside, the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim. Mercedes offered a wide range of interior colour choices and trims, making the GLE's cabin one of the highest quality in its segment.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe embraced a bold new design direction, distinct from its predecessors. The Santa Fe's boxy shape was a departure from the sleek, futuristic aesthetics of other Hyundai models, yet it managed to look upscale and attract attention. The design prioritized aerodynamics and storage capacity, with a palette of sophisticated exterior colours and anodized-finish badging. The XRT trim added dark chrome and black cladding, while the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims featured larger wheels. Inside, the Santa Fe offered premium styling, with options ranging from stain-resistant cloth to quilted Nappa leather. The interior was thoughtfully designed, with ample storage and comfort features, making it a welcoming space for passengers.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including the GLE 350 4Matic, GLE 450 4Matic, and AMG GLE 53 4Matic+, with the GLE 450e PHEV joining the lineup. The GLE 450e combined a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing 381 horsepower and 479 lb-ft of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 5.5 seconds. The GLE 450e's fuel economy was estimated at 4.1 litres-equivalent per 100 kilometres in hybrid mode, with a range of 77 kilometres on electric power alone. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride, even on rough roads. The GLE's steering was precise, making it easy to manoeuvre despite its size.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe offered a hybrid powertrain as the entry-level option, with a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. It featured a six-speed automatic transmission, unlike the CVTs commonly found in hybrids. The gas-only engine option was a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard across the lineup. The Santa Fe's fuel economy varied by powertrain, with the hybrid achieving 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the city. The XRT trim offered off-road capabilities, with increased ground clearance and robust tires. The Santa Fe's driving dynamics were smooth and stable, with some body roll in turns.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for passengers, with generous headroom and legroom in the first and second rows. The cabin felt light and airy, thanks to the light beige upholstery. The GLE offered 630 litres of cargo space behind the second row, which was competitive with rivals like the BMW X5. The optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 trims and was best suited for young children. The GLE 450e came with numerous comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The vehicle also boasted advanced technology features, such as a Burmester surround-sound audio system and augmented reality navigation.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a longer wheelbase and body compared to its predecessor, with most of the extra space dedicated to the cargo area. The design was inspired by the concept of "chabak," emphasizing comfort for car camping and tailgating. The Santa Fe offered 413 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,148 and 2,267 litres with the third and second rows folded, respectively. The interior was spacious, with options for a bench or captain's chairs in the second row. The Santa Fe's upholstery ranged from stain-resistant cloth to quilted Nappa leather, with heated front seats standard in Canada. The cargo area included thoughtful features like a flush grab handle and optional roof rails.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch screens serving as 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 "Hey Mercedes" 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 inadvertently activated, causing minor inconveniences.

The 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe boasted a curved panoramic display that elegantly integrated digital real estate without being overwhelming. The touchscreen display was intuitive, with easy access to controls and crisp graphics. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with a 12-speaker Bose stereo and multiple USB ports. The Preferred trim featured a simpler 12.3-inch touchscreen, while higher trims offered wireless charging and Hyundai's BlueLink system for vehicle access. The system allowed for keyless entry and remote access via a smartphone app.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came equipped with a comprehensive suite of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. 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 Santa Fe had not yet been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA, but Hyundai vehicles typically performed well in safety evaluations. The Santa Fe offered a wide range of standard safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, forward collision-avoidance assist, and blind-spot monitors. Higher trims added features like a 360-degree camera system and remote automatic parking. The Santa Fe was the first Hyundai vehicle to include driver monitoring, enhancing safety by tracking driver alertness.