2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh take on electrified mobility, distinct from the original Ioniq. It featured a minimalist yet intricate exterior design, characterized by the Parametric Pixel theme, which incorporated numerous LED pixels in the lighting elements. The Ioniq 5's aerodynamic wheels and silver-contrast plastic bits added to its unique look. Inside, the cabin was a stark contrast to the exterior, offering a serene "Living Space" with sustainable materials and a zero-gravity "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 had a more subdued and less flashy appearance compared to its competitors. The base model avoided gaudy grilles and excessive chrome, while the AMG and Maybach versions offered more visual drama with flared wheel arches, chrome accents, and larger wheels. The interior of the GLS 450, though basic by GLS standards, still exuded luxury with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated into the upright dashboard, providing a high-quality feel without being overly fragile.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came in three trims—SE, SEL, and Limited—and offered both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The base SE Standard Range featured a 128-kW rear-mounted electric motor with 168 horsepower and a 220-mile range. The extended-range models had a 168-kW rear motor producing 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a 303-mile range. The AWD variants boasted a dual-motor system with a total output of 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range dropped to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 handled well on various terrains, with four drive modes, including a Sport mode that added excitement but reduced range.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. The gasoline engine produced 362 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque, with an additional 21 hp and 184 lb-ft from the electric motor. The GLS 450 offered smooth performance and a maximum towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. However, the air suspension exhibited poor body control, making the ride less comfortable. The GLS 580 4Matic, AMG GLS 63, and Maybach GLS 600 4Matic, with their 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engines, were expected to return to showrooms, offering up to 603 hp in the AMG version.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 utilized the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), providing a longer wheelbase and maximizing interior space. Despite its hatchback appearance, the Ioniq 5 had a longer wheelbase than the seven-passenger Palisade, measuring 118.1 inches. It offered a total interior volume of 133.7 cubic feet, with a passenger volume of 106.5 cu-ft. The interior featured soft touchpoints, a moveable center console, and comfortable leatherette seats with supportive bolsters.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a seven-seat configuration, with an optional six-seat version featuring captain’s chairs. The second-row seats could slide forward and fold for third-row access, offering the best legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The air suspension could lower for easier loading, but the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues were noted.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured next-generation high-voltage, energy-dense systems with vehicle-to-load capabilities, allowing it to charge other devices and vehicles. It supported 800-volt charging infrastructures and could reach 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes. The Ioniq 5 also offered a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, AI-powered voice recognition, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for better visibility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, including a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was user-friendly, but the touchpad controller was overly sensitive. The touchscreen and instrument cluster had good graphics, but the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems (ADAS) that included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, and front- and rear-collision avoidance. The Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I (HAD) offered Level 2 semi-autonomous driving with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. A head-up display with augmented reality overlays was also available, though it could be distracting. Safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS were not yet available, but Hyundai had a strong track record with IIHS Top Safety awards.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS included standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, a driver-attention monitor, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems like Active Steering Assist and Active Blind Spot Assist. Crash-test ratings from IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.