2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was a fresh take on Hyundai's electrified mobility, distinct from the original Ioniq. It featured a minimalist exterior design with a unique Parametric Pixel theme, reminiscent of 8-bit graphics. This design was evident in the vehicle's extensive use of pixelated LED lights, creating a concept car-like appearance. The interior, however, was a stark contrast with its "Living Space" theme, offering a mellow and relaxing environment with sustainable materials and a zero-gravity relaxation mode for the driver's seat.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received a subtle exterior makeover that was easy to miss. The front grille featured Mercedes star logos, and the headlights and taillights were slightly updated. The GLE 450e model tested had a sophisticated look with Twilight Blue metallic paint and 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels. The interior exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, natural grain brown walnut trim, and a host of comfort features, including power-adjustable heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered three trims—SE, SEL, and Limited—with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option. The base SE Standard Range had a 128-kW rear motor producing 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range models featured a 168-kW rear motor with 225 hp and 303 miles of range. The AWD variants had a dual-motor system with a total output of 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, but the range dropped to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 handled well, with four drive modes, including Sport, which added excitement but reduced range. The vehicle was quiet, thanks to noise-reducing features like acoustic tires and sound-deadening materials.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, including turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines and a twin-turbo V8 in the AMG GLE 63 S, which produced 603 hp. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and an electric motor, delivered 381 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e had an estimated electric-only range of 40 miles and could operate as an EV at speeds up to 87 mph. The transition between gas and electric power was seamless, and the suspension provided a smooth ride even on rough roads.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 was built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering a long wheelbase of 118.1 inches, which was longer than the seven-passenger Hyundai Palisade. The Ioniq 5 had a total interior volume of 133.7 cubic feet, with 106.5 cubic feet dedicated to passenger space. The interior featured soft touchpoints and a moveable center console, providing flexibility and comfort. The leatherette seats were supportive and comfortable, making it a pleasant space for both driving and relaxing.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for five passengers, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e had 33 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, comparable to the BMW X5 but less than the Cadillac XT6 and Volvo XC90. The GLE offered a third-row seat option for the GLE 350 and GLE 450, but it was suitable only for young children. The interior featured power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added luxury features like a Burmester surround-sound system, massaging front seats, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. It supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80% battery capacity in 18 minutes and gaining 68 miles of range in 5 minutes with a 350-kW charger. The Ioniq 5 also offered a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, 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 clear visibility.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with two 12.3-inch screens for the digital instrument panel and main infotainment. The system was easy to operate but had a learning curve. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with an improved "Hey Mercedes" voice command system. The head-up display and augmented reality navigation were praised for their clarity and convenience, though the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 came 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. Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system, adapted to the driver's habits through machine learning. The Ioniq 5 also featured a head-up display with augmented reality overlays, though it could be distracting.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, and a driver attention monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added active blind-spot assist, active lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, and evasive steering assist. These features were unobtrusive and provided an extra layer of safety.