2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sporty and sleek design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E, with a lower and wider stance that gave it a visually appealing presence. Its design featured a highback tail with a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar, and wheels positioned at the farthest corners of the chassis, creating a body with pronounced hips. The EV6's voluptuous curves, similar to those on a Porsche 911, added both style and stability. The headlights, with their V-shaped pattern, and the sealed air intake mimicking trim, contributed to its aggressive look. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating center console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic yet driver-focused environment.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint and 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, offered a more traditional SUV coupe aesthetic. Despite its athletic sneaker-like appearance from certain angles, the GLE Coupe maintained a sense of luxury and refinement. Inside, it featured high-end materials, including Nappa leather and a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, complemented by brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech touch, while ambient lighting enhanced the driving experience at night. The GLE Coupe's interior design masked its complexity, requiring some acclimation to operate its technology smoothly.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly the GT-Line e-AWD model, delivered impressive performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. The EV6's torque distribution was seamless, providing excellent handling in various conditions. However, its driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's 274-mile EPA estimate. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging speeds were often lower than claimed.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque, enhanced by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system. It offered robust acceleration and a range of driving modes, including Sport+ for spirited driving. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and performance brakes contributed to its agile handling. However, the GLE's size and weight were noticeable on challenging roads. Fuel economy was slightly below the EPA estimate, achieving 18.5 mpg in combined driving.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered innovative features like pop-out door handles and a dual-function touchscreen for climate and stereo controls. Its interior provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, cargo space was limited, with 24 cubic feet behind the seats and 50 cubic feet when folded. Towing capacity was rated at 2,300 pounds, and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though it was more comfortable for four. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. Rear visibility was challenging, but the back seat provided ample legroom. The cargo hold measured 27.5 cubic feet, expanding to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included a four-zone climate control system and an in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with dual 12-inch screens and a range of connectivity options. However, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a wired connection. The Highway Driving Assist system offered advanced features, though lane-change functionality was inconsistent. The 360-degree cameras and head-up display with augmented reality were standout features. Kia Connect features were disabled for Massachusetts residents due to compliance issues.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe featured the MBUX infotainment system with dual 12.3-inch screens, navigation, and a Burmester audio system. MBUX was intuitive, with natural voice recognition and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included gesture recognition and augmented video for navigation. The touchpad on the center console was prone to accidental activation.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety ratings but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including lane-keeping, pedestrian detection, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added features like evasive steering assist and adaptive cruise control with machine learning.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and Pre Safe Sound. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 systems for driver support and collision avoidance. The GLE's lane-keeping assistance was particularly effective, and adaptive cruise control offered route-based speed adaptation.