2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC underwent a generational redesign, yet it retained a familiar appearance to avoid alienating its loyal fanbase. The design changes were subtle, with new taillights and repositioned door handles, but the overall look remained similar to its predecessor. The headlights were narrower and more aggressive, while the taillights were connected by a trim piece across the back. The trunk design was updated, with less chrome and a more pronounced kick-down. The GLC Coupe maintained its steeply sloping profile, distinguishing it from the SUV variant. Inside, the GLC's interior was luxurious, featuring two-tone leather upholstery and a wood-and-metal dash treatment. The cabin was filled with screens, buttons, and ambient lighting, showcasing Mercedes' commitment to gadgetry.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona retained its fresh appearance from the previous year, with a distinctive design that set it apart in the crossover class. The single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars gave it a futuristic look. The Kona's larger size, thanks to a 15-centimetre increase in length, improved interior space and gave it a more assertive stance. The N Line trim added sportier design elements, including body-coloured bumpers and cladding. The interior remained unchanged from 2024, offering a solid and airy feel. The drive selector was relocated to a column beneath the wiper stalk, creating a sense of space. The Kona's interior featured various trims, with options for cloth, leatherette, and Alcantara sport seats, along with heated front seats and a heated steering wheel.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC 43 was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine from AMG, producing an impressive 416 horsepower, surpassing the previous generation's 385 hp V6. This engine was complemented by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. The base GLC 300, on the other hand, delivered 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission, with the GLC 43 using the AMG Speedshift MCT 9-speed for faster shifts. The GLC 43's performance suspension and four-wheel steering enhanced its sporty nature, though it might not be ideal for daily commuting due to its firmer ride.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered a choice between a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated engine with 147 horsepower and a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine with 190 horsepower. The turbo engine provided a broader torque band, enhancing performance. The Kona's AWD option, available on the Essential and Preferred trims, added versatility, while the N Line trim came with standard AWD and a more sophisticated suspension setup. The Kona's ride and handling focused on competence rather than outright excitement, making it a practical choice for everyday driving.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a driver-focused cabin layout, with controls angled towards the driver. The front seats offered heat and memory functions as standard, with optional ventilation and heated rear seats. The GLC SUV provided 620 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,680 litres with the rear seats folded. The GLC Coupe, with its hatchback-like interior, offered 545 litres of cargo volume, increasing to 1,490 litres when the rear seats were folded.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its 723 litres of cargo capacity, expandable to 1,803 litres with the rear seats folded. Rear legroom measured 970 millimetres, providing ample space for passengers. The front seats offered a generous range of movement, and the drive selector's relocation created a sense of space. The Kona's interior featured various trims, with options for cloth, leatherette, and Alcantara sport seats. Heated front seats were standard, with additional features available on higher trims.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured an 11.9-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen running the third-generation MBUX infotainment system. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with optional navigation and a 15-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system. The GLC also included advanced features like a head-up display and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona came with a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display, offering wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims included wireless smartphone charging and Hyundai's digital key. The N Line trim featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, while the Ultimate package added an eight-speaker Bose audio system and built-in navigation. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air software updates.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLC earned a Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with standard safety features including active brake assist, attention assist, and adaptive braking technology. The Pre-Safe system enhanced occupant protection in the event of a crash. Optional advanced driver-assistance systems were available for an additional cost.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its standard safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and a Blind Spot View Monitor. The Kona also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, highlighting its commitment to safety.