2024 Kia Telluride vs 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class exuded a sense of luxurious sophistication, though it sometimes bordered on the mundane. Upgrading to sportier rims noticeably elevated its appeal. The test GLS 450 model featured bright-finish 22-inch AMG wheels perfectly complementing the SUV's new silver four-louver grille, polished metal accents, and stunning Twilight Blue paint. This visual combo set the GLS apart in a market where blacked-out aesthetics dominate.

Inside, the GLS 450 showcased a visually pleasing Bahia Brown over Black interior, paired with natural-grain Grey Oak wood that carried over from the previous year. The use of contrast stitching and polished aluminum accents added to the richness, while the interior's detailing underscored the luxurious experience.

From the robust turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology in the GLS 450 to the twin-turbo V8 versions available in the GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, buyers had a range of performance levels to pick from. The test vehicle came under the AMG Line and Exclusive Trim Packages, further outfitted with leather upholstery, wood trim, and artificial leather on the dashboard and doors. The addition of second-row captain’s chairs as a no-charge option added to the comfort. The MSRP of this decked-out GLS 450 came to $97,730.

On the flip side, the 2024 Kia Telluride was available in five trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with the rugged X-Line and X-Pro packages being optional on the higher trims. The X-Line package added standard AWD, nearly half an inch more ground clearance, and a unique grille with 20-inch wheel designs. The X-Pro package further enhanced capabilities with 18-inch matte black wheels, all-terrain tires, and heavy-duty engine cooling to increase towing capacity to 5,500 pounds.

The SX Prestige with the X-Line package we tested boasted sophisticated Wolf Gray paint and a premium interior featuring black Nappa leather seats. The SUV’s look was modern and cohesive, with thoughtful interior color schemes available across the trims to complement the simulated open-pore wood trim.

The Mercedes-Benz GLS 450, with its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine, churned out 375 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. This setup allowed for smooth, seamless acceleration and a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds. The mild-hybrid system added an instant 148 lb-ft of torque, giving the SUV a lively feel from a stop. A nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive provided diverse driving modes: Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual. The GLS 450 also had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds and an official combined fuel economy rating of 21 mpg. However, real-world driving returned slightly less at 19.9 mpg.

The driving experience in the GLS 450 was refined, with adaptive air suspension providing a comfortable yet controlled ride. Sporting cartoonishly massive Continental Premium Contact tires added to its athleticism, although it resulted in some minor road noise. The responsive brakes ensured smooth stops, and the Off-Road menu within MBUX offered useful off-road capabilities for the GLS 580 model.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Kia Telluride featured a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Power was distributed through an eight-speed automatic transmission to either the front or all four wheels, depending on configuration. The Telluride managed a decent towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, increased to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package thanks to heavy-duty engine cooling.

AWD-equipped models included a locking center differential and various driving modes like Snow, Comfort, Sport, and Smart. While acceleration was smooth and passing power robust, fuel economy was a notable downside, with EPA ratings of 20 mpg combined and a real-world return of 19 mpg during the Southern California evaluation loop. In city driving, mileage dropped to 17.5 mpg.

Though not as agile as the GLS, the Telluride was quick and refined, featuring Torque Vectoring Cornering Control for better curve handling. Its suspension soaked up road undulations, contributing to a smoother ride experience, much like a camera gimbal stabilizes motion.

Inside the Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, the optional AMG Line package affected usability, with side sill trim introducing some inconvenience while entering or exiting the vehicle. However, the luxurious interior made up for it. The front seats offered exceptional comfort with heating, ventilation, massage programs, and a wide range of adjustments. Excellent outward visibility, a new-for-2024 steering wheel, and captivating aesthetics enhanced the driving experience, though touch-sensing controls on the steering wheel introduced some irritations.

The second row featured heated seats and substantial legroom, though accessing the third-row seat was cumbersome. Space in the third row was snug for adults but suitable for children. Interior storage was decent in all rows, with functional cargo capacities: 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, 42.7 cubic feet behind the second row, and a maximum of 84.7 cubic feet with all seats folded.

Conversely, the Kia Telluride offered a comfortable environment, particularly in higher trims like the SX Prestige X-Line. Premium Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof created a pleasant ambiance. Control ergonomics were straightforward with a combination of touchscreen and physical buttons, though metallic finish buttons proved hard to read in bright sunlight.

Practical storage solutions included a covered cubby, smartphone tray, door panel bins, and a hands-free power liftgate. The Telluride excelled in cargo capacity, providing 21 cubic feet behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third-row folded, and a massive 87 cubic feet with all rear seats down—ample space for any family adventure.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class came equipped with the latest iteration of the MBUX infotainment system. Dual 12.3-inch screens integrated seamlessly into the dash, offering improved graphics and multiple themes. However, its touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and center console presented some user challenges, leading to accidental changes and distractions.

Despite these issues, the MBUX system was generally intuitive and feature-rich, boasting an outstanding natural voice recognition system, responsive touchscreen, and augmented reality navigation. The standard Burmester sound system further enhanced the tech experience with Dolby Atmos technology.

The Kia Telluride also featured impressive tech, with a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. However, it required a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, detracting from its otherwise modern appeal. Bluetooth pairing was effortless, and the Kia Connect system, though inactive during the test, offered extensive remote and safety features through various subscription plans.

Tech highlights included the Harman Kardon audio system, blue-light filter for reduced eye strain, driver’s voice amplification for rear passengers, and a digital key function. An available rearview camera mirror and a 10-inch head-up display added to the high-tech convenience, making everyday driving easier.

Safety was a strong suit for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS-Class, equipped with over 20 significant safety features. The advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) could be fine-tuned through MBUX, increasing usability and reducing annoyance. Throughout testing, features like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, and collision-avoidance systems operated smoothly and effectively, providing a stress-free driving experience.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Telluride’s Kia Drive Wise collection included essential driver assistance technologies as standard. Features like collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Driving Assist offered robust safety across all trims. Higher levels added front parking sensors, cross-traffic alerts, and a Blind-Spot View Monitor, enhancing driving confidence.

Highway Driving Assist 2.0 introduced semi-autonomous capabilities like automatic lane changes, performing best on freeways and rural roads. However, variations in responsiveness during increased traffic and on mountain grades impacted overall trust in the system. A Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA underscored the Telluride’s commitment to safety.