2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Measuring 182.4 inches in length with a 111.4-inch wheelbase, the GLB had a distinctive yet familiar Mercedes-Benz design. Its 7.9 inches of ground clearance gave it a more rugged appearance compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. The GLB's interior was a modern marvel, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin's fit and finish were top-notch, with a beefy steering wheel adding to the driving experience.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, especially with the X-Line package, had a commanding presence thanks to rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, a lifted suspension, and robust roof rails. Our test vehicle, equipped with the X-Line package, AWD, and extra-cost Wolf Gray paint, had an MSRP of $45,310. The base LX trim with FWD started at $29,590, making the Sorento accessible at various price points. The Sorento's cabin exuded quality, with leather upholstery, simulated wood trim, and solid construction. The second-row captain's chairs and available panoramic sunroof added to the comfort, though the third-row seat was best suited for children or short trips.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a single engine option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLB offered FWD as standard and 4MATIC AWD for an additional $2,000. Fuel economy was respectable, with EPA estimates of 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for FWD and 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for AWD. The GLB's curb weight ranged from 3,638 to 3,891 pounds, and it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The 4MATIC version provided better handling and off-road capabilities, thanks to the Off-Road Engineering Package.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered multiple powertrains, starting with a 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. More powerful options included a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 281 hp and 311 pound-feet of torque, a turbocharged hybrid, and a new turbocharged plug-in hybrid. The turbo engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, could accelerate to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento's AWD system and raised suspension provided a sporty driving experience, though its off-road capabilities were limited. Fuel economy for the turbocharged engine was rated at 24 mpg combined, though real-world testing showed an average of around 20.7 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered an optional third-row seat, which affected the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with each section adjustable for recline and slide. In three-row models, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children. Cargo space varied from 27.0 cubic feet behind the second row to 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded in two-row models. In three-row models, cargo space ranged from 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row to 56.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior felt luxurious, though the "Rust" leather color was an odd choice. The SX Prestige trim featured a 14-way power driver's seat with thigh support, 10-way power front passenger seat, and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain's chairs, standard from EX trim, were heated in the SX Prestige X-Line and designed with kids in mind, featuring cupholders, USB ports, and storage pockets. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 38.5 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 75.5 cubic feet with the second row folded. The "smart" power tailgate added convenience for loading cargo.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was packed with technology, including the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, keyless start, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package added 10.25-inch displays, keyless go, and a Burmester Surround Sound System. The optional Multimedia Package included navigation with augmented reality, traffic-sign assist, and a head-up display. Other available features included adaptive damping, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless charging, NFC pairing, parking assistance, and active parking assist.

The 2022 Kia Sorento featured a standard 10.25-inch touchscreen display with navigation, satellite radio, Kia Connect services, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, except for the base LX trim, which had an 8-inch screen. The infotainment system was intuitive, though the graphics and colors might not appeal to everyone. The SX Prestige X-Line trim included a 12-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system and wireless smartphone charging. The voice recognition system was less effective than in Hyundai models, despite sharing similar technology. Overall, the Sorento's infotainment system offered plenty of features and functions, with a user-friendly interface.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a host of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, attention assist, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Available safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and blind-spot assist. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like active distance assist Distronic, active steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, active speed limit assist, active blind-spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Kia Sorento came standard with Kia Drive Wise, which included various safety features depending on the trim level. Our test vehicle had a rear-seat reminder system, Junction Assist, and a Blind View Monitor system. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Highway Driving Assist were also available, providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The IIHS named the Sorento a Top Safety Pick, with the highest ratings for all but the base headlights. The NHTSA gave the Sorento a four-star overall crash-test rating, with four stars for frontal-impact protection and rollover resistance, and five stars in other assessments.