2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Kia Carnival

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally known as the GL-Class, it was designed to replace the G-Class but found its niche among affluent families seeking a more comfortable alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS featured a sleek design with softened angles and a futuristic interior dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-reliant nature. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the AMG GLS 63—the GLS catered to various preferences, from the standard features of the GLS 450 to the performance-oriented AMG GLS 63 with its aggressive styling and motorsport-inspired interior.

The 2022 Kia Carnival, on the other hand, was a minivan with an SUV-inspired design that set it apart in its segment. Each trim level offered unique design elements, from the standard grille on the LX to the mirrored grid-pattern grille on the SX. The SX Prestige trim elevated the interior with real leather and VIP Lounge Seats, complete with Ottoman-style leg rests. The Carnival's exterior featured SUV styling cues, such as simulated skid plates and a floating roof design, while the interior boasted a crossover-like dashboard and center console. Despite its minivan roots, the Carnival's sharp, angular design and upscale interior made it a standout choice for families seeking style and practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The GLS 580 stepped up with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models featured 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 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving a 0-60 mph time of just 4.1 seconds. The GLS's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes, including Comfort and Sport+, provided a dynamic driving experience, while the E-Active Body Control ensured a smooth ride over rough roads.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Carnival was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission driving the front wheels. While lacking all-wheel drive and electrified options, the Carnival offered a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds. The V6 engine provided smooth and steady acceleration, and the Carnival's driving modes—Normal, Eco, Sport, and Smart—allowed for a tailored driving experience. Despite its front-wheel-drive setup, the Carnival handled corners with a flat stance and athletic feel, though it could feel stiff over uneven surfaces when lightly loaded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. The third row, while less spacious, 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 rear rows down. The power-folding third row and numerous storage compartments added to its practicality, though it fell short of the Cadillac Escalade's cargo capacity.

The 2022 Kia Carnival excelled in practicality, with its SUV-style dashboard and center console offering a unique design. The LX trim featured second-row captain's chairs with a wide pass-through, while higher trims offered an 8-passenger Slide Flex seat configuration. The SX Prestige trim boasted VIP Lounge Seats with power adjustments and leg rests. The Carnival's cargo area provided 40.2 cubic feet of space behind the third row, expanding to 86.9 cubic feet with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats in certain trims increased cargo volume to 145.1 cubic feet, surpassing many competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The voice-control system, activated by saying "Mercedes," allowed for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel, offering a customizable display.

The 2022 Kia Carnival's technology varied by trim, with the LX offering an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless smartphone integration. The EX trim introduced a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and UVO Link connected services. Features like Passenger View and Passenger Talk enhanced communication within the vehicle. The SX trim added a dual-screen rear entertainment system, while the SX Prestige included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and a 12-speaker Bose audio system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2022 Kia Carnival offered an extensive list of advanced driving assistance systems, such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and active blind-spot monitoring. The EX trim added front parking sensors, cyclist detection, and Highway Driving Assist. The Carnival also featured an ultrasonic rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist. The SX trim included a surround-view camera system, while the SX Prestige offered a Blind View Monitor. Crash-test results were unavailable at the time of review.