Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA presented a modernized look with its new generation, fitting snugly as the smallest SUV in the Mercedes lineup. Its proportions and styling clearly defined its position below the GLS, GLE, GLC, and GLB. The GLA's dimensions placed it on the larger side of the subcompact class, comparable to the BMW X1. The new GLA was three inches taller and slightly shorter in length than its predecessor, with short overhangs and cladding that added to its muscular appearance. Despite the small-looking windows, the seating positions provided ample visibility. Standard LED headlights and optional adaptive LED headlights were available. Inside, the GLA 250 featured less-than-premium surfaces, with the seats being the nicest part of the interior. However, the overall interior quality did not measure up to other luxury crossovers, with mass-market models offering nicer interiors for a similar price.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 marked a new chapter for Hyundai's electrified mobility, distinct from the original Ioniq. The Ioniq 5's exterior was a polished exercise in design, with minimal character lines and a unique Parametric Pixel design that gave it a concept car feel. The pixels were used extensively in the lighting elements, creating a fascinating yet overwhelming design. The aerodynamic wheels and silver-contrast plastic bits added to its futuristic look. Inside, the Ioniq 5's cabin was a stark contrast to its exterior, offering a mellow and comfortable "Living Space" design. The interior featured sustainable materials, with stain-resistant cloth seats and recycled fibers used throughout. The Ioniq 5's interior was designed for relaxation, with a "Relaxation" mode for the driver's seat, providing a zero-gravity resting position.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was available in three variants, with a fourth on the way. The GLA 250 and GLA 250 4MATIC were powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The engine allowed the GLA to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The AMG GLA 35 variant offered 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving a zero to 60 mph time of 5.1 seconds. The AMG GLA 45 increased power to 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, with a zero to 60 mph time of 4.3 seconds. The GLA's AWD system, known as 4MATIC, offered different torque distribution ratios depending on the drive mode. However, the GLA 250 struggled with turbo lag and low-end gearing confusion during daily driving. The ride quality was good, but road noise was prominent at high speeds. The steering was numb, typical for its class, and the turning circle was not as tight as competitors.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered two drive configurations, three trims, and three powertrains. The base model, the Ioniq 5 SE Standard Range, featured a single 128-kW rear-mounted electric motor with 168 horsepower and a range of 220 miles. The extended-range lineup included a larger 168-kW rear motor producing 225 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 303 miles. The AWD variant offered 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque, with a range of 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 handled well on various terrains, with four drive modes including Sport mode for added excitement. The paddle shifters allowed for adjusting regenerative properties, offering an engaging driving experience. The Ioniq 5 was equipped with noise-reducing features, providing a quiet cabin regardless of road surface.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA's added height provided a more SUV-like seating position, with easy ingress and egress. Front passengers enjoyed fantastic headroom and legroom, while the rear seats offered more legroom than before. The GLA featured a 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat, synthetic leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. The cargo area offered 15.4 cubic feet of space, expanding to 50.5 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. These numbers were average for its class, providing ample storage for a family road trip.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 sat on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), offering a longer wheelbase and maximizing interior space. The Ioniq 5's wheelbase was longer than the seven-passenger Palisade, providing a roomy interior with a total volume of 133.7 cubic feet. The Ioniq 5 prioritized passenger comfort with a measured passenger volume of 106.5 cubic feet. The interior featured soft touch points and a moveable center console, allowing for flexible storage options. The leatherette seats were comfortable and supportive, catering to drivers of various sizes.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring two 7.0-inch display screens. The system included four USB ports, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Upgrades included a 10.25-inch touchscreen, a 12-speaker Burmester audio system, wireless charging, and a WiFi hot spot. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with intuitive scrolling and selection functionality. However, it lacked a quick way to scroll through radio stations. The GLA also featured a car-wash function, folding mirrors and closing windows with a single command.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 boasted advanced technology, including a high-voltage, energy-dense system with vehicle-to-load capabilities. The Ioniq 5 supported ultra-fast charging, reaching 80 percent battery capacity in 18 minutes. Hyundai partnered with Electrify America to offer unlimited 30-minute fast-charging sessions for two years. The Ioniq 5 featured a redesigned Blue Link app, digital key, and over-the-air updates. The 12.3-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment were elegant and intuitive, with an anti-glare coating for clear visibility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a reasonable amount of active safety features, including a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. The Parking Assistance Package included a surround-view camera system. However, the GLA's standard safety features were lacking compared to less expensive SUVs.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 featured Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems. Standard features included blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance. The Ioniq 5 also offered Hyundai Highway Drive Assist I, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving system with machine-learning adaptive cruise control. A head-up display with augmented reality overlays was available, though it could be distracting. While safety ratings were not yet available, Hyundai's track record suggested high marks for the Ioniq 5.