Mercedes-Benz GLA vs Kia Telluride Hybrid

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA presented a modernized appearance with its new generation, fitting seamlessly into the Mercedes lineup as the smallest SUV. Its proportions and styling were distinct, placing it below the GLS, GLE, GLC, and GLB models. The GLA's dimensions were on the larger side of the subcompact class, comparable to the BMW X1. It was three inches taller and half an inch shorter than its predecessor, with short overhangs and cladding that contributed to its muscular look. Despite the small appearance of the windows, the seating positions provided ample visibility. The interior, however, was less impressive, with surfaces that were easily scratched and not as premium as expected. The seats were well-appointed but didn't compensate for the overall lack of luxury compared to other crossovers.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid showcased a bold design that could polarize opinions, particularly with its flat, wide grille. The vehicle's personality varied with color and trim, with body-colored vertical strakes that could be jarring in lighter shades. The X-Line and X-Pro models featured distinctive grille blocks and amber accent lights. The side profile was bold, with angular fender sculpting and unique black plastic tabs atop each wheel well. The rear view adopted a different style, reminiscent of a Range Rover. Inside, the Telluride's interior was less controversial, featuring a simple horizontal dashboard layout and a modern appearance. The Hybrid SX Prestige trim offered a luxurious two-tone palette, though some button labeling was difficult to read. The seats, covered in synthetic leather and suede, were somewhat firm but the surrounding materials were of excellent quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA was available in three variants: GLA 250, GLA 250 4MATIC, and AMG GLA 35, with the AMG GLA 45 on the way. The GLA 250 and 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 car to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.8 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The AMG GLA 35 featured an enhanced turbocharged engine with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds. The AMG GLA 45 increased power to 382 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque, reaching zero to 60 mph in 4.3 seconds. The GLA's ride quality was good but interrupted by road noise, and its steering was typical for its class.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine with electric motors, producing 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. The Hybrid was mated to a six-speed transmission and was not available in the off-road-capable X-Pro trims. The Telluride Hybrid offered a smooth and quiet ride, with seamless transitions between electric and gas power. The X-Pro Prestige trim provided comfort despite its off-road suspension, while the Hybrid SX Prestige had a stiffer ride. The Telluride was composed on winding roads, with a soft brake pedal effort that required adjustment. The vehicle's highway driving assist was particularly helpful on longer trips.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA offered a more SUV-like seating position with easy ingress and egress. Front passengers enjoyed fantastic headroom and legroom, while the rear seats provided more legroom than before. The GLA featured a 40/20/40 split-fold rear seat, synthetic leather upholstery, and power-adjustable front seats. Cargo space was 15.4 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 50.5 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid provided ample space for adults in all three rows, though the rearmost row was better suited for smaller passengers. The second row featured power-adjustable seats with heating and ventilation, offering comfort comparable to a business-class airline seat. The Telluride's cargo capacity was 22.3 cu-ft behind the third row, expanding to 89.3 cu-ft with the seats folded. The Hybrid models lost only about one cubic foot of cargo space. The Telluride could tow up to 5,000 pounds, or 4,500 for the Hybrid.

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, and wireless device charging. The MBUX system was user-friendly but lacked a quick way to scroll through radio stations. The GLA also featured a car-wash function that adjusted various settings for convenience.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5-inch touchscreen for climate controls. The system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and dual wireless phone chargers. The infotainment system was easy to use, though it required a firm tap to register inputs. The Telluride offered customization options for the screen's appearance and a 14-speaker Meridian audio system in higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA included standard safety features such as a rearview camera, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. The Parking Assistance Package offered a surround-view camera system and parking assist technology.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid came with standard safety features including frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims offered additional features like a surround-view camera system and automatic reverse braking. The Telluride's driver attention monitor had some operational issues, but the highway driving assist was effective on long trips.