2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2023 Hyundai Palisade

In 2023, the Hyundai Palisade received a noticeable styling update that elevated its road presence. As Hyundai's largest SUV, the Palisade emphasized a more commanding look with bolder strokes framing new headlights. LED accents, daytime running lights, and headlights became standard across the lineup, while the squared-off grille gave it a stronger and more formidable appearance.

Body-color mirrors were standard for all trims, featuring heated, powered mirrors with standard auto-dimming capabilities. The top-tier Calligraphy trim displayed premium rear accent lighting, body-color bumpers, a unique grille blending glossy black and chrome, and a wider rear spoiler. The XRT trim, on the other hand, adopted a darker tone with a dark grille, roof cross rails, body-color door handles, and black 20-inch wheels. Standard 18-inch alloy wheels adorned SE and SEL models, whereas 20-inch wheels were optional for SEL and standard for higher trims. A new multi-spoke alloy wheel design in the Calligraphy trim conveyed an expensive feel, suitable for luxurious fleets.

A new color, Robust Emerald, was introduced for Calligraphy models, replacing Rainforest. It maintained a dark, subtle elegance, fitting well within the grayscale palette.

The interior of the Calligraphy-trim tester showcased attractive styling, premium Nappa leather seats, dual-pane sunroof (single on SEL and standard on XRT), and design elements reminiscent of Mercedes-Benz. The base model featured cloth seats with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat, while higher trims boasted heated, eight-way power-adjustable leather or leatherette seats, and ventilated seats in the upper trims. Second-row seats varied from bench configurations to captain’s chairs, with new wing-out headrests in the Calligraphy trim, limiting eight-passenger seating to the two lower trims.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class introduced an all-new GLC 300 while retaining the previous year's Coupe models. With subtle exterior changes like narrower taillights, it maintained an evolutionary design that was both classy and timeless. The more modern interior featured a significant makeover, including a prominent vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel.

Though the Coupe retained its first-generation exterior design with a distinctive sloping roofline, it continued to hold usability advantages, offering elegance with a touch of sportiness. The overall design theme leaned heavily into traditional luxury, distinguishing it from competitor models focused on sport and technology.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade carried forward a single powertrain option, boasting a 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivered 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This robust setup positioned the Palisade competitively within its class, outperforming several rivals including the Mazda CX-9 and Volkswagen Atlas. It closely matched the Honda Pilot and Nissan Pathfinder, while slightly trailing behind the Toyota Highlander and Ford Explorer in terms of power.

The Palisade's eight-speed automatic transmission could be controlled via paddle shifters, with front-wheel drive as standard and an optional all-wheel drive system available for an additional $1,900. Off-road handling was competent thanks to Hyundai's HTRAC system, although the Palisade's clearance limited it to light off-roading. Its towing capacity stood at 5,000 pounds with AWD models equipped with a dedicated Tow Mode. Fuel economy was respectable, with FWD models achieving 19 mpg city, 27 highway, and 22 combined, while AWD models slightly decreased these figures.

In contrast, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offered the GLC 300 trim with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, generating 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This engine provided a smooth, nearly electric-like acceleration with a 0-60 mph time of 6.2 seconds. Despite its linear power delivery, it lacked the liveliness seen in some competitors.

The GLC's nine-speed automatic transmission and standard rear-wheel drive offered a balanced driving experience, with optional 4Matic all-wheel drive boosting versatility. While the braking system had a soft pedal feel, it was effective and easy to modulate. The suspension prioritized comfort, offering a silky-smooth ride and a quieter cabin experience. The returning GLC Coupe utilized a turbo engine offering similar performance but added a sportier AMG variant with a turbocharged V6, achieving 385 hp and 384 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade provided ample space to comfortably seat seven or eight passengers. The interior measurements included 44.1 inches of front legroom, 42.4 inches in the second row, and 31.4 inches in the third row, besting the Toyota Highlander in passenger space. The Palisade also excelled in cargo capacity with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, 45.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and a generous 86.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded flat. Standard hands-free smart liftgate, HVAC vents in all rows, and an intuitive center console added to its practicality.

In comparison, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class offered a more upscale cabin with firmly cushioned, well-shaped front seats. The synthetic leather was convincingly similar to real leather, and opting for genuine leather provided an even smoother, luxurious experience. Front seats provided ample space, but rear headroom was slightly limited for taller passengers. The standard GLC 300 offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, falling short compared to rivals but sufficient for most needs. The sloping roofline of the GLC Coupe reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and slightly impacted rear headroom.

Hyundai equipped the 2023 Palisade with advanced tech features, making it the first Hyundai model to offer WiFi hotspot capability as standard. A new 12.3-inch color touchscreen infotainment system supported Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, HD Radio, SiriusXM, and Bluetooth connectivity. SEL models had an optional premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, while Limited and Calligraphy trims had it standard. The Palisade included numerous remote accessibility features through Hyundai's Bluelink system and introduced Digital Key 2 Touch for both Android and Apple ecosystems.

Mercedes-Benz equipped the 2023 GLC-Class with an updated infotainment system centered around an 11.9-inch touchscreen. It featured sharp graphics and swift responses but was less ergonomic due to its lower dash placement. The MBUX system boasted exceptional voice recognition capabilities, though it temporarily interrupted audio playback. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with the option for the Burmester 3D Surround Sound system catering to audiophiles.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, building on its 2022 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, continued to impress with its safety features. Standard Hyundai Smart Sense suite included forward collision avoidance, driver attention warning, high beam assist, lane-keeping, and lane-following assist, among others. New additions like second-row side-impact airbags and rear cross-traffic collision avoidance enhanced passenger protection.

Despite the lack of crash-test results at the time from NHTSA or IIHS, the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class was expected to achieve high marks based on its predecessor's performance. Standard safety features such as forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitor, and adaptive headlights with automatic high beams ensured comprehensive safety. The optional Driver Assistance package offered adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and evasive steering assist for an added layer of security.