2021 Kia Telluride vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE presented a more refined and softened exterior compared to its predecessors, with a notable reduction in drag coefficient from .32 to .29, which Mercedes claimed made it a class leader. The front end underwent the most significant transformation, contributing to its handsome yet unoffensive appearance. Inside, the GLE offered increased headroom and legroom due to a 3.1-inch wheelbase extension, allowing for an optional third row, although this feature was not available in the test model. The interior was generally luxurious, with options like black leather upholstery and a multi-contour seat with a massage feature, though some features like heated and ventilated seats required additional costs. The Emerald Green Metallic paint, despite its elegance, revealed an orange-peel effect, which was disappointing for a premium paint option.

In contrast, the 2021 Kia Telluride was praised for its excellent styling and quality both inside and out. The top-of-the-line SX trim, especially with the Prestige package, transformed the Telluride into a luxury SUV at a mainstream price, featuring premium Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition added a popular blacked-out look with gloss black wheels. The interior was well-designed, with a solid and smooth transmission shifter and a contemporary layout. However, the Telluride's interior color options were limited to black or gray unless opting for the SX trim, and some lower interior parts used glossy hard plastic. Despite these minor flaws, the Telluride's overall look and feel were highly commendable.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 350 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. While it offered sufficient power at speed, the engine felt sluggish from a stop, likely due to the vehicle's nearly 5,000-pound weight. The start-stop system was notably inelegant, and the 9-speed automatic transmission, though decent, lacked the smoothness of competitors like the BMW X5. Despite these drawbacks, the GLE 350's fuel economy was impressive, achieving 19 mpg city, 26 highway, and 22 combined.

The 2021 Kia Telluride, on the other hand, featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Telluride offered a choice of driving modes and optional AWD with a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction. Its suspension tuning effectively minimized head-toss, providing a firm and connected sensation at lower speeds and a more compliant ride at higher velocities. The Telluride's fuel economy was slightly lower, with an EPA rating of 21 mpg combined, but it excelled in ride comfort and handling, making it a capable and enjoyable SUV to drive.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE benefited from an extended wheelbase, offering ample space in the second row and between 33.3 and 39.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind it, expanding to 79.4 cubic feet with the seats lowered. The interior was dominated by dual 12.3-inch screens, setting a new standard for dash design and customizability. The seats were comfortable, though the lumbar support was challenging to adjust. The steering wheel, while chunky and pleasant to hold, often obstructed the view of the screens. The upgraded Burmester stereo provided excellent sound, though it caused vibrations through the brake pedal.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a 14-way adjustable driver's seat and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs were also heated and ventilated, with sunshades and separate climate control. The third-row seat was accessible and usable for adults, though not as spacious as some competitors. The Telluride offered ample storage solutions, including smartphone holders and USB ports. The smart hands-free power liftgate provided easy access to the cargo area, which offered 21 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 87 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured the new MBUX infotainment system, which was both deep and daunting but ultimately rewarding. The system included two 12.3-inch screens and a head-up display, offering augmented reality features. While the voice control system was less effective than expected, the steering-wheel controls were intuitive once mastered. The driver-assistance tech was improved but still had issues at high speeds, making it unreliable for autonomous driving.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch screen with navigation and other upgrades. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various features, including remote engine start and climate control. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with menu shortcut buttons and intuitive touchscreen operation. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, though the audio quality was not exceptional. Additional features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode enhanced the driving experience, while the Prestige package added a head-up display with comprehensive information.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE lacked current safety ratings from NHTSA and IIHS, but it offered a comprehensive suite of autonomous safety systems. Features like Attention Assist and Seat Kinetics aimed to enhance driver comfort and safety. However, the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were less effective at high speeds, leading to a frustrating and unpredictable experience.

The 2021 Kia Telluride included a robust set of standard safety features, such as blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and automatic emergency braking. The EX and SX trims added Highway Drive Assist, a Level 2 semi-autonomous driving aid. The Telluride also featured Safe Exit Assist and a Blind-Spot View Monitor. It earned a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS, though its standard headlights received a Poor rating. NHTSA awarded the Telluride an overall 5-star rating, despite four-star frontal-impact results.