2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Hyundai Kona

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS exuded a refined elegance that, while bordering on understated, promised longevity in its appeal. The GLS 450 test vehicle featured striking 22-inch AMG rims, a new silver four-louver grille, and polished metal accents that complemented its lustrous paint. Inside, the GLS 450 boasted a sophisticated Bahia Brown over Black interior, with natural-grain Grey Oak trim, contrast stitching, and polished aluminum accents, creating a luxurious environment synonymous with Mercedes-Benz interiors.

In contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Kona maintained its fresh and distinctive appearance, despite being visually unchanged from the 2024 model. Its flush, single-piece grille and ultra-slim LED light bars lent a futuristic look, even to the gas-powered models. The Kona's increased size, with an additional 15 centimetres in length, enhanced its interior space and assertive stance. The N Line trim offered a sportier design with body-coloured bumpers and cladding, while other trims featured larger alloy wheels and LED lighting, contributing to its modern aesthetic.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 delivered a smooth and powerful driving experience with its 375-horsepower turbocharged 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine, complemented by a mild-hybrid system. This setup provided 369 lb-ft of torque and swift acceleration, reaching 100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The nine-speed automatic transmission and variable 4Matic all-wheel-drive system offered versatile driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Individual, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle dynamics to their preferences. The GLS 450's adaptive air suspension and massive Continental tires contributed to its impressive handling and comfort, while its towing capacity reached 3,500 kilograms.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona offered two engine options for its gas-powered models. The Essential and Preferred trims featured a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine with 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission. The Kona N Line, however, provided a more engaging drive with a turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque through an eight-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was available on the Essential and Preferred trims and standard on the N Line, enhancing traction and handling. The Kona's ride prioritized competence and comfort, with AWD models benefiting from a multi-link rear suspension.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a luxurious and spacious interior, with supple leather surfaces, heated and ventilated front seats, and a commanding view of the road. The second-row captain's chairs provided excellent thigh support and expansive legroom, while the third-row seats, though snug for adults, were suitable for children. Cargo space was practical, with 355 litres behind the third row, 1,209 litres behind the second row, and a maximum of 2,400 litres with all seats folded.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its cargo capacity, offering 723 litres with the rear seats in place and 1,803 litres when folded. Rear legroom was adequate for most passengers, and the front seats provided a generous range of movement. The Kona's interior featured excellent storage options, with numerous compartments for personal items. Upholstery options varied by trim, with cloth on the Essential and Preferred, leatherette on the Trend package, and Alcantara sport seats on the N Line. Climate control ranged from single-zone air conditioning to dual-zone automatic climate control with rear vents.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays for digital instrumentation and infotainment. The system offered improved graphics and themes, though touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and centre console could cause unintentional changes. Despite this, MBUX was praised for its intuitive operation, natural voice recognition, and augmented reality navigation.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona featured a 12.3-inch central touchscreen infotainment display across all trims, with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The N Line trim offered a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, enhancing customization and cohesion. Audiophiles could opt for the N Line with the Ultimate package for an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Hyundai's Bluelink connectivity allowed for over-the-air updates, ensuring features remained current.

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with over 20 advanced safety features, including adjustable driving assistance systems through MBUX. The forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist systems were praised for their effectiveness and subtlety. The adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assist systems provided smooth and transparent operation, enhancing driver confidence.

The 2025 Hyundai Kona impressed with its comprehensive safety features, including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision Warning as standard. Higher trims added advanced features like Highway Driving Assist and Blind Spot View Monitor. The Kona's safety credentials were further bolstered by its Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.