2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2023 Kia Telluride

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain with a sophisticated AWD system. This model year introduced changes like satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus with black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35 also featured a new Rose Gold paint color. Starting at $38,600 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $51,000, with our test model totaling $57,250 with options. The GLB's design was unique, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs, prioritizing function over form. The interior, however, was a highlight, featuring high-definition displays and ambient lighting, though the controls required acclimation. Despite its entry-level status, the GLB's quality was evident, though road noise was notable, especially with the 21-inch wheels.

The 2023 Kia Telluride, sampled in Texas, showcased the new X-Line and X-Pro models. All Tellurides received updated front and rear styling, new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs. New paint colors included Midnight Lake Blue, Dawning Red, and Jungle Green, with interior colors like Terracotta, Navy, and Sage Green. The X-Line replaced the Nightfall Edition, featuring a raised suspension, unique grille, and black 20-inch wheels, while the X-Pro added 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires. Interior updates included a digital instrumentation panel and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The Telluride offered various trims, with prices starting at $35,690 for the LX and reaching $52,785 for the SX Prestige X-Pro. Our test vehicles, the SX Prestige models, were equipped with premium features and priced at $54,120 and $55,120, respectively.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in both versions. The AMG GLB35 was enhanced to produce 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the GLB250's engine by 81 hp and 37 lb-ft. It included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. The AMG GLB35 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, 1.8 seconds faster than the GLB250. The EPA rated the AMG GLB35 at 22 mpg combined, while our testing averaged 21.8 mpg. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, emphasizing performance over comfort. The AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads, offering a thrilling driving experience, though it was firm and loud in other settings.

The 2023 Kia Telluride retained its 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, and Snow driving modes, with AWD featuring a low-speed Lock setting. The V6 provided ample power, averaging 24.1 mpg in the X-Line and 20.4 mpg in the X-Pro, with EPA ratings of 21 mpg combined for AWD models. The Telluride's suspension was raised, improving ground clearance and off-road performance. The X-Pro, with 18-inch wheels and all-terrain tires, excelled off-road, showcasing its capabilities on a Texas ranch. On highways, the Telluride offered a smooth, quiet ride, though the steering felt firm in Sport mode.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet compact SUV, offering an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats, with options for leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLB provided easy access and a commanding view, though storage was limited. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, with an optional third-row seat reducing cargo space. The power rear liftgate revealed a 22 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded.

The 2023 Kia Telluride accommodated seven or eight passengers, with premium Nappa leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, and heated and ventilated front and second-row seats. The interior was spacious, with a power lumbar stabilization system for long trips. The second-row seats offered comfort and convenience, with USB ports, storage pockets, and climate controls. The third-row seat was accessible and comfortable for adults, though not as spacious as the Volkswagen Atlas. The Telluride provided ample storage and a smart power tailgate, with cargo space ranging from 21 cubic feet behind the third row to 87 cubic feet with all rear seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package offered navigation with augmented reality. Optional upgrades included wireless charging, a Burmester audio system, and a head-up display. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant, though navigation recommendations were occasionally off.

The 2023 Kia Telluride came with a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Kia Connect services. The voice recognition system performed well, though climate control adjustments required manual input. The Kia Access app allowed remote control via Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, with OTA updates and dual-device Bluetooth pairing. The Telluride offered Driver Talk and Quiet Mode, a Harman Kardon sound system, wireless charging, and digital-key technology. The head-up display provided additional information, and the Leading Vehicle Departure Alert system was a standout feature.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Standard safety features were limited to Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and emergency call service. Additional features like evasive steering assist and lane-keeping assistance were absent. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2023 Kia Telluride offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. It also included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. New features for 2023 included junction turning assistance and Intelligent Speed Limit Assist. Highway Drive Assist 1.5 and 2.0 provided semi-autonomous driving assistance, with additional collision avoidance features on higher trims. The Telluride's safety systems performed well in real-world testing, though crash-test ratings were unavailable.