2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class vs 2022 Kia Forte

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class was a versatile luxury vehicle available in coupe, convertible, sedan, and station wagon body styles, offering a range of options that few other models could match. The E-Class sedans, designated as E350, featured a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the E450 variants boasted a turbo 3.0-liter inline-six with EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with 4Matic all-wheel drive as an option. For those seeking performance, the AMG-tuned E-Class models, like the AMG E53, provided a more powerful engine and dynamic driving experience. Despite its high cost, the E-Class was a symbol of luxury, with its sleek design and opulent interior, especially in high-end trims like the AMG E53 Cabriolet.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia Forte offered a more straightforward approach with four trim levels: FE, LXS, GT-Line, and GT. The Forte GT, evaluated in this review, came with a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine, providing a spirited driving experience. The GT trim featured sporty design elements, including red-accent detailing and larger wheels, enhancing its visual appeal. The interior, while not as luxurious as the E-Class, was practical and comfortable, with features like a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat and dual-zone climate control. The Forte's trunk was notably spacious, offering 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it a practical choice for everyday use.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was equipped with a 3.0-liter turbo-six engine featuring EQ Boost mild-hybrid technology, producing 429 horsepower and 384 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain delivered robust performance across a wide rev range, with a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 4.4 seconds. The AMG Speedshift nine-speed automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system ensured power was effectively transferred to the road. The E53 Cabriolet's AMG-tuned air suspension and performance exhaust system enhanced its dynamic capabilities, making it a versatile vehicle for both leisurely cruising and spirited driving. Despite some cowl shake due to the convertible design, the E53 Cabriolet remained solid and sure-footed on winding roads.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT, on the other hand, featured a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 201 horsepower and 195 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The Forte GT offered Smart, Normal, and Sport driving modes, along with a sport-tuned suspension and larger 18-inch wheels. While the Forte GT provided a lively driving experience, it fell short of being a true performance sedan. The brakes struggled during demanding descents, and the engine noise at highway speeds was noticeable. Despite these drawbacks, the Forte GT was a fun and practical daily driver, offering good fuel economy and a comfortable ride.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG E53 Cabriolet was a true four-passenger convertible, offering comfortable seating for adults in both the front and rear. The Aircap system reduced cabin turbulence with the top down, while heated seats, a heated steering wheel, and the Airscarf neck-warming system ensured comfort in cooler weather. The E-Class Cabriolet's trunk provided 9.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the top up, but this was reduced when the top was down. The interior featured multi-contour front seats with massage and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the luxury experience.

The 2022 Kia Forte GT, equipped with the GT2 package, offered a range of comfort features, including a 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat, heated and ventilated front seats, and a power sunroof. The Forte's interior was spacious for a compact car, with a height-adjustable front passenger seat and rear air conditioning vents. The trunk was notably large, with 15.3 cubic feet of cargo space, making it one of the largest in its segment. The rear seats could also be folded down to expand cargo capacity, adding to the Forte's practicality.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class featured the advanced Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with two 12.3-inch screens serving as the digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display. The system offered multiple interaction methods, including voice commands, touch controls, and steering wheel buttons. MBUX included features like Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an augmented reality navigation system. The test car also had a Burmester surround-sound audio system, enhancing the in-car entertainment experience.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered new Technology option packages, with the GT-Line and GT trims featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen display. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were available on lower trims, the larger screen required a wired connection. The Forte's infotainment system was user-friendly, with intuitive menu structures and physical controls. The GT trim included wireless smartphone charging and an available Harman Kardon sound system. However, the voice recognition system had mixed performance, and Kia Connect's functionality was not fully clear during testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class came with standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Cabriolet also had pop-up rollbars for rollover protection. Additional safety features were available in the Driver Assistance Package, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. The test car was equipped with this package, which provided impressive driver aids, particularly the adaptive cruise control and Active Steering Assist.

The 2022 Kia Forte offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a driver monitoring system. The GT-Line and GT trims added active blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safe Exit Warning. Optional safety upgrades included adaptive cruise control and Highway Driving Assist. The Forte received high marks from the IIHS for crashworthiness, but the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating due to concerns about rear passenger safety in side impacts.