2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE vs 2022 Kia EV6

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE, despite its lineage, did not quite capture the visual allure expected from the brand. Its exterior design, while promising with an aggressive front, seemed to lose its momentum past the A-pillar, making it blend with its predecessors. The flat taillights and contoured rear attempted to add some flair, but the overall look lacked the striking proportions seen in competitors like BMW or Audi. However, the interior was a different story. The redesigned GLE Coupe boasted a streamlined and cohesive look, with an interior that was a masterpiece of quality and design. The red and black interior was both bold and luxurious, with materials like wood, metal, and leather creating a tactile delight. Despite some flimsy controls, the GLE's interior exuded a sense of opulence, though it required significant options to truly feel luxurious.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sportier and more svelte appearance, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its design was lower and wider, with a highback tail and a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the corners, giving the body a curvaceous form akin to a Porsche 911. The EV6's headlights and bumper trim added to its aggressive stance, while the wedgy profile and smooth lower body in matte silver paint enhanced its sleekness. The interior featured dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and seats covered in faux suede and leather, creating a futuristic and enjoyable driving environment. The EV6's design was a testament to industrial creativity, capturing attention with its unique features and sporty aesthetic.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled in performance with its complex air suspension and turbocharged engines. The GLE 350 featured a reliable coil-sprung setup, while the GLE 450 and AMG models offered advanced air suspensions with adaptive dampers and roll stabilization. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its electric supercharger, delivered quick throttle response and impressive power, though not as exhilarating as expected. The hybrid EQ Boost system provided additional horsepower and torque, enhancing the driving experience without significantly improving fuel efficiency. The GLE's towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms was exceptional, and its ride quality and steering were praised for their precision and control.

The 2022 Kia EV6, particularly in the GT-Line e-AWD configuration, offered a powerful and dynamic performance with its dual electric motors producing 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. The EV6 accelerated swiftly, reaching 60 mph in 4.6 seconds, and handled corners with agility. The regenerative braking system provided multiple settings for deceleration, allowing for one-pedal driving. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's estimated range. Charging times were reasonable, but the EV6's energy consumption in winter conditions was a drawback for those in colder climates.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered spacious interiors, with most models accommodating five passengers, and an optional third row for seven. The cargo capacity was generous, with 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe version, however, had a more limited cargo space due to its sloping roofline. The MBUX infotainment system improved usability with a simplified interface, though some controls required familiarization. The GLE's interior was luxurious, with features like heated armrests and customizable ambient lighting.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided ample legroom and headroom, with a low floor enhancing passenger comfort. The rear seats reclined and offered optional heated cushions, creating an open and airy space. However, the cargo capacity was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's innovative features, like the combined climate and stereo controls, were intriguing but could be frustrating while driving. The towing capacity was modest at 1,043 kilograms, but the onboard power generator added versatility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen with gesture controls and a natural voice assistant. The AMG models included a Track Pace app for performance tracking, while the ambient lighting and navigation system added to the high-tech experience. The GLE's infotainment system was overengineered yet well-executed, offering a plethora of features for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots, and the 360-degree cameras provided clear visuals. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the remote parking assist system was a standout feature. The EV6's technology was impressive without being overwhelming, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with features like blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and evasive steering assist. The Pre-Safe Sound and Impulse Side systems added to the GLE's comprehensive safety suite.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety ratings but offered a range of standard safety features, including forward collision avoidance, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims included blind spot monitoring and 360 cameras, providing a solid safety package.