2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2025 Hyundai Palisade

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade stood out with its bold and unmistakable design, which set it apart from other SUVs that often relied on rugged styling cues. The Palisade's detailing evoked strong reactions, but many appreciated the angular and technical look introduced in the 2023 refresh. This design approach extended to the interior, where even the base trim offered a modern and upscale feel. Higher trims featured premium materials like leather and metal speaker grilles, elevating the Palisade beyond its mainstream SUV label. However, some control markings were difficult to read in daylight. The Palisade was packed with thoughtful details, such as USB ports in the front seatbacks and accessible drink holders for children. In Canada, the Palisade was available in four trims, with prices ranging from $53,284 to $63,584, including destination charges.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS, on the other hand, offered a lineup that included the GLS 450, GLS 580, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600, with prices ranging from $125,395 to $247,795 in Canada. Built in Alabama, the GLS was subject to tariffs and a federal luxury tax. The base GLS 450 test vehicle featured AMG styling details, which enhanced its sporty appearance. The interior, while similar to the smaller GLE, boasted high-quality materials and detailing. However, body creaks were noticeable on chilly mornings. The GLS 450 came standard with leather upholstery, with options for Nappa leather and various interior trims. The dual 12.3-inch displays were well-integrated, and the MBUX infotainment system was user-friendly. Despite some responsiveness issues in Comfort mode, the GLS offered a tailored driving experience, making it easier to manage in urban settings compared to larger luxury SUVs.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms and averaged 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, according to Natural Resources Canada. Despite its age, the Palisade's driving dynamics remained impressive, with a firm ride at lower speeds and a softer feel on highways. The powertrain was smooth and refined, delivering satisfying performance, although it wasn't the most fuel-efficient option. During testing, the Palisade recorded 13.9 L/100 km in city driving and 11.9 L/100 km overall. The steering and suspension provided a reasonable feel for the road, and the brakes were well-calibrated.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid assist, generating 375 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard 4Matic all-wheel drive, achieving 0-100 km/h in 6.1 seconds. The GLS 450 offered acceptable fuel economy, rated at 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres combined, but observed 12.1 L/100 km during testing. The GLS had multiple driving modes, including Comfort, Eco, Sport, Off-Road, and Individual, and a maximum towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms. The Airmatic adaptive suspension significantly improved ride and handling dynamics. While the powertrain exhibited occasional delays, the GLS provided a tailored driving experience, making it easier to manage in urban settings compared to larger luxury SUVs.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade offered three rows of seats, accommodating up to eight passengers in the base trim and seven with second-row captain's chairs. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured Nappa leather, power-adjustable front seats, and a massaging driver's seat. Heated seats were standard in the first two rows, and the second-row captain's chairs provided excellent comfort. The third row offered USB-C ports and drink holders, though headroom was snug. The Palisade's storage solutions were thoughtful, with adjustable cupholders and door panel trays. The Smart Liftgate was a convenient feature, and cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with all seats folded.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard seven-passenger seating, with a six-passenger option featuring second-row captain's chairs. The GLS provided exceptional comfort, with heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats, and a four-zone climate control system. Comfort upgrades included ventilated second-row seats and a five-zone climate control system. The third-row seat offered good thigh support, though legroom was snug. Storage space was limited, with a small centre armrest bin and shallow door pockets. The hands-free power liftgate revealed 355 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 2,400 litres with all seats folded. The GLS's cargo capacity fell short of traditional full-size luxury SUVs.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade's technology, while functional, appeared dated compared to newer Hyundai models. It featured a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system included Bluetooth support, wireless charging, SiriusXM, navigation, and voice recognition. The Harman Kardon audio system delivered commendable sound, and the Palisade offered a digital rearview mirror and a head-up display. The surround-view camera system was useful for parking.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured dual 12.3-inch displays, offering a retro yet luxurious feel. The MBUX infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation with augmented reality, and online music access. The standard Burmester surround-sound system was satisfying, with an optional high-end audio upgrade. Additional options included a head-up display, rear infotainment screens, and a rear passenger tablet. MBUX was user-friendly, with voice commands activated by saying "Hey Mercedes."

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade came equipped with a comprehensive list of standard safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Highway Driving Assist system combined adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist. The Palisade also offered an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and a surround-view camera. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added evasive steering assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS through 2024 but received a Poor rating in a new frontal-impact test in 2025. The NHTSA awarded it five-star frontal impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured nearly 40 safety and driver assistance systems, including Pre-Safe and Crosswind Assist technologies. It also had a Car-to-X Communication system for future road hazard warnings. Parking was made easy with front and rear sensors and a surround-view camera. The GLS required active driver participation, with a hands-on system that occasionally struggled with curves. The braking system was overly aggressive in certain situations, but overall, the GLS provided a smooth and refined driving experience.