Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Hyundai Kona

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the rugged yet luxurious feel of the cabin.

The 2026 Hyundai Kona, available in four trim levels, offered a polarizing design that some loved and others disliked. The Limited trim, with its Neoteric Yellow paint, stood out even more. Despite its bold appearance, the Kona exuded quality and refinement, with features like H-Tex artificial leather and a spacious interior that comfortably accommodated four adults. The Kona's technological sophistication was evident in its widescreen digital instrumentation and touchscreen infotainment system, complemented by traditional analog controls for ease of use. However, the use of white control labels on a metallic background posed visibility issues during the day.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the base G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Hyundai Kona offered two engine options. The SEL Premium and Limited trims featured a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 190 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base SE and SEL Sport trims had a less powerful 2.0-liter engine with 147 hp and 132 lb-ft, coupled with a CVT. The turbocharged engine provided satisfying acceleration, while the AWD option improved ride quality with a multi-link rear suspension. Fuel economy for the turbo ranged from 26 to 28 mpg, with AWD producing the lower figure. However, the Kona's ride and handling were less refined, with suspension isolation issues and brake performance concerns.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 22.6 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, slightly less than some rivals. Despite its size, the G-Class was easier to maneuver and park, thanks to its short length and narrow width.

The 2026 Hyundai Kona was a practical small SUV with generous interior room and cargo space. The Limited trim featured upgrades like ambient lighting, H-Tex leather, and heated and ventilated front seats. The Kona's interior offered impressive storage solutions, including a smart hands-free power liftgate. Cargo space measured 25.5 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expandable to 63.7 cubic feet. The Kona's design facilitated easy entry and exit, and the driving position was comfortable for long trips.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display across the dashboard. The system included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and excellent voice recognition. A Burmester 3D surround sound system was standard, with options like a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2026 Hyundai Kona Limited trim boasted dual 12.3-inch screens, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto standard across all trims. The infotainment system was intuitive, with features like digital key technology and Hyundai Pay. The Kona also included a surround-view camera system and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Bluelink+ service offered a responsive digital voice assistant and a Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centering.

The 2026 Hyundai Kona received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from IIHS and a four-star overall rating from NHTSA. It offered a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. The Kona also featured a rear occupant warning system and Highway Driving Assist, enhancing safety and convenience.