2024 Kia Telluride vs 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE received an exterior makeover, but the changes were subtle enough to go unnoticed by many. Up close, the Mercedes star logos on the front grille were a clever detail, and the changes to the headlights and taillights were more apparent when compared side-by-side with the previous model. Standard LED headlights and optional multi-beam LED headlights were available. The GLE 450e we tested was finished in Twilight Blue metallic and rode on 21-inch AMG multi-spoke alloy wheels, which added a touch of elegance despite their $1,100 price tag. The interior of the GLE 450e exuded luxury with Macchiato beige and black leather upholstery, complemented by natural grain brown walnut trim, adding $1,620 and $160, respectively, to the sticker price. Mercedes offered a variety of choices with 10 interior color options and five trims, making it one of the highest quality cabins in its segment.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was available in five core trim levels: LX, S, EX, SX, and SX Prestige, with the rugged X-Line and X-Pro packages adding more capability and style. The X-Line package included standard AWD, increased ground clearance, improved approach and departure angles, unique grille and 20-inch wheel designs, and roof rails. The X-Pro package added 18-inch matte-black wheels with all-terrain tires and heavy-duty engine cooling, increasing the towing capacity to 5,500 pounds. Prices ranged from $35,990 for the LX to $53,185 for the SX Prestige with the X-Pro package. Our SX Prestige X-Line test vehicle featured Wolf Gray paint and floor mats, bringing the MSRP to $54,270. The Telluride's attractive design, including the blacked-out X-Line styling, remained a strong selling point. The interior featured premium Nappa leather seats, a dual sunroof, and various color options, making it nearly meet luxury SUV standards.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a range of powertrains, starting at approximately $63,805. The lineup included the GLE 350, GLE 450, GLE 450e, and GLE 580, with two AMG models, the AMG GLE 53 and AMG GLE 63 S. Engine options ranged from turbocharged four- and six-cylinders to a twin-turbo V8 producing 603 horsepower in the AMG GLE 63 S. The GLE 450e, with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder and electric motor, delivered a combined output of 381 hp and 479 pound-feet of torque, reaching 0-60 mph in 5.4 seconds. The GLE 450e's electric-only driving range was estimated at 40 miles, and it 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 GLE's sophisticated steering made it maneuverable despite its size, and the AMG models offered even quicker reflexes.

The 2024 Kia Telluride featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Most Tellurides could tow 5,000 pounds, but the X-Pro package increased this to 5,500 pounds. AWD models included a locking center differential and a Snow driving mode. The Telluride's ground clearance was 8.0 inches, rising to 8.4 inches with the X-Line and X-Pro packages. The SUV accelerated easily to freeway speeds and offered good passing power, though it wasn't very fuel-efficient, averaging 19 mpg in combined driving and 17.5 mpg in city driving. The Telluride's ride was firm at lower speeds but compliant at higher velocities, providing a smooth experience on winding roads. Off-road, the Telluride was more capable than expected, handling various terrains with ease.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE provided ample space for adults in both the first and second rows, with a light and airy cabin feel. The GLE 450e offered 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 optional third-row seat was limited to the GLE 350 and GLE 450 and was suitable only for young children. Standard comfort features included power-adjustable heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, a power sunroof, and a power liftgate. The Exclusive and Pinnacle trim levels added features like a Burmester audio system, ventilated front seats, augmented reality navigation, massaging front seats, and a head-up display. Additional options included a panoramic sunroof, illuminated running boards, soft-close doors, and heated rear seats.

The 2024 Kia Telluride's interior was comfortable, especially in higher trim levels. Our SX Prestige X-Line test vehicle featured premium Nappa leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats with lumbar massage, heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs, and a third-row seat capable of transporting adults. The dual sunroof added light to the dark interior. The Telluride's controls were oriented horizontally, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system and physical controls. Storage space was generous, with a covered cubby, smartphone tray, and door panel bins. The hands-free power liftgate was convenient, and the Telluride offered 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, 46 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87 cubic feet with both rows folded. The X-Line and X-Pro packages added useful roof rails for additional cargo capacity.

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 screen. The system could be controlled via touch commands, a control pad, or touch-sensitive buttons on the steering wheel. 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. However, the touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel could be overly sensitive, causing issues like sudden volume changes.

The 2024 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, though Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection. The system was easy to use, and Bluetooth pairing was straightforward. Kia Connect offered various plans, with the Ultimate plan providing features like voice recognition, remote engine starting, and over-the-air updates. The Telluride also had satellite radio, wireless smartphone charging, and a 10-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Thoughtful features included a blue-light filter for the display, Quiet Mode, and a function to deliver the driver’s voice to rear passengers. The digital key function and camera-based rearview mirror were convenient, and the 10-inch head-up display provided helpful information. The Telluride also offered a 360-degree camera system and Leading Vehicle Departure Alert.

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLE came with a comprehensive lineup of active safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, pedestrian detection, hands-free park assist, rain-sensing wipers, automatic high-beam headlights, 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.

The 2024 Kia Telluride was equipped with the Kia Drive Wise collection of driver assistance features, including collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear occupant protection. Highway Driving Assist provided semi-autonomous driving with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist. Higher trims offered additional features like front parking sensors, cross-traffic alert, evasive steering assist, lane-change assist, and automatic rear braking. The Telluride also had a Blind-Spot View Monitor and Highway Driving Assist 2.0, which added automatic lane changing. The Telluride received a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.