2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2024 Kia Telluride

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC-Class presented a blend of the familiar and the new. While the GLC 300 was redesigned, the Coupe models carried over from the previous year, with new versions expected in the 2024 model year. The changes in the GLC 300 were subtle, with the most noticeable being the narrower taillights. Despite the updates, the GLC retained its classic luxury SUV appeal, with a design that had stood the test of time since its first generation in 2016. The interior saw a more significant transformation, featuring a large vertical infotainment touchscreen and a tablet-like instrument panel, offering a modern and high-tech feel. The materials and construction quality remained top-notch, providing a simpler and cleaner cockpit design compared to its rivals.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Telluride offered a more rugged and versatile appearance, especially with the X-Line and X-Pro packages. These packages added features like all-wheel drive, increased ground clearance, and unique styling elements. The Telluride's design updates maintained its attractive proportions, and the Wolf Gray paint with blacked-out styling elements added a striking look. Inside, the Telluride's cabin was spacious and comfortable, with premium Nappa leather seats and a dual sunroof. The interior featured thoughtful details, such as a digital instrumentation panel that changed with the time of day, and ample storage space. The Telluride's design and features made it a strong contender in the SUV market, appealing to those seeking both style and functionality.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 was powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, producing 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with rear-wheel drive as standard, and 4Matic all-wheel drive as an option. The GLC 300 offered smooth acceleration, reaching 60 mph in 6.2 seconds, which was average for its class. The suspension favored comfort over sporty handling, providing a smooth ride and a nearly silent cabin. The GLC 4Matic Coupe retained its older engine, delivering similar performance, while the AMG GLC 43 Coupe offered a more powerful 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 engine with 385 horsepower, catering to those seeking a sportier drive.

The 2024 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options, with the latter including a locking center differential and various driving modes. The Telluride's towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, which increased to 5,500 pounds with the X-Pro package. While the Telluride provided good acceleration and passing power, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, averaging 19 mpg in combined driving. Despite this, the Telluride delivered a refined driving experience with responsive steering and effective brakes, making it feel more athletic in curves and corners compared to many of its rivals.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered comfortable front seats with ample adjustment options and firm cushioning. The synthetic leather upholstery was convincingly grained, and real leather was available for a smoother feel. The GLC provided adequate storage space, including a large center console bin and well-sized door pockets. The standard GLC offered 21.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which was smaller than some rivals, but the rear seats folded flat for larger items. The GLC Coupe's sloping roofline reduced cargo capacity to 17.6 cubic feet and slightly limited rear headroom.

In contrast, the 2024 Kia Telluride excelled in interior space and comfort, especially in higher trim levels. The SX Prestige X-Line model featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual sunroof. The Telluride's controls were oriented horizontally, with a user-friendly 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Storage space was generous, with a covered cubby and ample room in the door bins. The Telluride offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 46 cubic feet with the seats folded, and a maximum of 87 cubic feet. The hands-free power liftgate added convenience, and the X-Line and X-Pro packages provided useful roof rails for additional cargo capacity.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured a new interior layout with an 11.9-inch touchscreen, offering sharp graphics and immediate responses. However, the screen's lower placement on the dash made it more distracting to use. The MBUX infotainment system provided excellent voice recognition, but the lack of physical buttons made adjustments more challenging. Standard connectivity included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with an available Burmester 3D Surround Sound system for audio enthusiasts.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came equipped with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, requiring a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Kia Connect subscription offered various features, including voice recognition, remote engine starting, and over-the-air updates. The Telluride also featured satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. Additional tech included a digital key function, a camera-based rearview mirror, and a 10-inch head-up display. The Telluride's technology package was comprehensive, offering convenience and safety features that enhanced the driving experience.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLC had not yet been crash-tested by the NHTSA or IIHS, but its predecessor received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitor. The optional Driver Assistance package added adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and other advanced features. The GLC Coupe offered similar safety features, with additional cross-traffic alerts and a surround-view camera.

The 2024 Kia Telluride impressed with its standard Kia Drive Wise collection of driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Higher trims offered additional safety features, such as front parking sensors and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS, providing peace of mind for safety-conscious buyers.