2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, evolved from the GL-Class, which debuted in 2006. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS instead found its niche among affluent families seeking a luxurious, three-row SUV. The GLS's design softened its angles and lines, making it appear less bulky than its predecessors. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned nearly two-thirds of the dashboard, emphasizing its tech-centric controls. The GLS lineup included the GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of luxurious features and option packages.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe impressed with its value proposition. Despite its affordable price tag, the Santa Fe felt more luxurious than expected. The 2021 model introduced new gasoline engines and a hybrid powertrain, with trim levels ranging from SE to the top-tier Calligraphy. The exterior received a significant facelift, including a redesigned front end and new wheel designs. Inside, the Santa Fe featured upgraded materials, a new bridge-style center console, and an available 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. The Calligraphy trim, in particular, stood out with its premium leather, suede-like headliner, and overall sense of quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivered an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, enabling it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63 also featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and E-Active Body Control for a smooth and composed ride.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered three new powertrains. The SE and SEL trims came with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Santa Fe Hybrid combined a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, producing a total of 226 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque. The Limited and Calligraphy trims featured a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque, mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. The Santa Fe also offered Normal, Sport, and Smart driving modes, with the turbocharged engine providing a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, achieving 24 mpg in combined driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The third row, while not as roomy, was still suitable for adults. The GLS offered 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe, designed for those who didn't need a third row, offered a comfortable and spacious interior. All trims included dual-zone automatic climate control, with higher trims featuring leather upholstery and premium Nappa leather in the Calligraphy trim. The Santa Fe provided ample storage, including a new release button for the center armrest bin. The rear seat was particularly comfortable, with air-conditioning vents, USB ports, and a power outlet. The Santa Fe offered 36.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 72.1 cubic feet with the rear seat folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though it required a USB-C cable. The MBUX system also featured advanced voice control, activated by saying "Hey Mercedes," and a fully digital instrument panel controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy was loaded with technology, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, and an 8.5-inch color head-up display. The basic 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while the 10.25-inch screen required wired connections but included upgraded voice recognition and Blue Link connected services. Blue Link provided a range of features, including remote engine start and climate control adjustments, though the Santa Fe lacked a WiFi hotspot.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control.

The 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe offered an impressive array of safety features, particularly in the Calligraphy trim. The forward-collision warning system included pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning assistance. Safe Exit Assist used blind-spot monitoring sensors to warn occupants of approaching vehicles or cyclists. The Santa Fe also featured a rear-occupant alert system, Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Highway Driving Assist. The Santa Fe earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS when equipped with LED projector headlights.