GMC Yukon vs Kia Sorento

The 2022 Kia Sorento had a striking presence, especially with the X-Line treatment. Rugged bumpers, matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, a lifted suspension, and robust roof rails added definition and purpose to this midsize SUV. Our test vehicle featured the X-Line package in the SX Prestige trim, enhancing its appeal with all-wheel drive (AWD) and Wolf Gray paint. The rust-colored leather interior, along with thoughtful touches like floor mats and a cargo net, gave an upscale feel. The Sorento’s cabin exuded quality through every detail, from the transmission shifter to the sturdy door releases. The leather upholstery and simulated wood trim added a touch of luxury, while the rock-solid construction gave it an air of durability.

In contrast, the 2022 GMC Yukon preferred to make its statement with chrome accents. Even the base SLE model had enough shiny stuff to give it a premium appearance, while the Denali trim was practically cloaked in the reflective material. The front of the Denali boasted a vast, multi-dimensional grille that evoked an industrial-sized cheese grater, flanked by GMC's signature C-shaped headlights. Our test vehicle's 22-inch bright machined aluminum wheels contrasted beautifully with the dark Redwood Metallic paint, giving the SUV a unique look. Inside, the Yukon featured a tastefully crafted, spacious cabin with second-row captain's chairs and a choice between cloth or perforated leather seats, adding to its upscale ambiance.

The 2022 Kia Sorento came with a standard 191-horsepower 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. However, it took almost 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph, making it less desirable than its other powertrain options. The recommended choice was the turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, which delivered 281 hp at 5,800 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, gave a more energetic feel, achieving 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. The Sorento’s suspension, even with the X-Line’s raised height, communicated an excellent blend of compliance and composure, making it drive more like a sports sedan. However, despite the good driving experience, its fuel economy disappointed, averaging only 20.7 mpg during testing.

The 2022 GMC Yukon offered three engines, including a new diesel option. The standard 5.3-liter V8 produced 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, while the 6.2-liter V8 available on the Denali delivered 420 hp and 460 pound-feet of torque. Additionally, the 3.0-liter turbodiesel engine provided 277 hp and a whopping 460 pound-feet of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Yukon's towing capacity reached 8,400 pounds with the 5.3-liter engine and Max Trailering Package, although our test Denali model had a tow rating of 8,200 pounds. The addition of independent rear suspension improved handling and ride quality, although some minor issues persisted on rutted pavement. The optional air ride adaptive suspension on our test vehicle enhanced the smoothness, particularly on highways.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's interior featured rust-colored leather, although the naming choice was questionable. With a 14-way power driver’s seat and a 10-way adjustable seat for the front passenger, comfort was a given. The heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, added to the convenience. However, the second-row was clearly designed for kids, with practical features like cupholders in the door armrests and USB charging ports. The third row, unfortunately, was cramped and best suited for short trips or smaller passengers. Cargo space measured up to 75.5 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded, with a smart power tailgate for easier loading.

Conversely, the 2022 GMC Yukon excelled in interior space, particularly with its third-row improvements. The redesign brought an increase in third-row legroom to 34.9 inches, and cargo space behind the third row expanded to a more practical 25.5 cubic feet. The nearly five-inch wheelbase stretch and the additional length added to this spaciousness, along with the switch to an independent rear suspension. The power-folding features for the second and third rows added convenience, and the power-sliding center console with hidden storage was a unique touch. Our test Yukon Denali’s power-retractable, illuminated assist steps further eased access, though they risked dirtying clothing in wet conditions.

The 2022 Kia Sorento’s tech offerings started with an 8-inch touchscreen in the base LX trim, while other trims upgraded to a 10.25-inch display with navigation and satellite radio. Unfortunately, this larger screen required a cable for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The user interface was intuitive but perhaps overly vibrant with purple hues dominating the digital displays. Despite sharing infotainment technology with Hyundai, Kia’s voice recognition lagged. The SX Prestige X-Line featured a 12-speaker Bose premium surround-sound system, offering a richer audio experience, and wireless smartphone charging starting from the EX trim.

The 2022 GMC Yukon came loaded with tech, starting with a 12-inch reconfigurable driver information center positioned between the primary gauges. Although navigating through menus with a small roller was not ideal, the information was clearly presented. Standard on the Denali was a 15-inch multi-color head-up display, offering a wealth of information including lane-departure warning, forward-collision alert, and an off-road inclinometer. A 10.2-inch touchscreen sat atop the center stack, featuring Google Built-In with maps, assistant, and app access. The system also included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless phone charging, and an optional WiFi hotspot. The Denali’s 14-speaker Bose audio system, while decent, fell short of high expectations, and the rear-seat media system in the Denali Ultimate Package catered well to backseat passengers.

Every 2022 Kia Sorento came equipped with Kia Drive Wise, a package varying by trim level. Our test vehicle included advanced features like a rear-seat reminder system using ultrasonic sensors, Junction Assist to prevent unsafe turns, and a unique Blind View Monitor offering live video in blind spots. Intelligent Speed Limit Assist and Highway Driving Assist added layers of safety, with the latter providing semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The IIHS awarded the Sorento a Top Safety Pick rating, while the NHTSA gave it a four-star overall rating.

The 2022 GMC Yukon featured GMC's Pro Safety suite as standard, with enhancements in the Pro Safety Plus package including lane-change alert with blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. Our test Yukon also had a Safety Alert Seat and an adjustable rear camera mirror for better visibility. The safety systems functioned effectively without being overly intrusive. The NHTSA rated the Yukon with four out of five stars overall, scoring four stars in front crash protection, five stars in side crash, and three stars in rollover resistance. The IIHS had not yet tested the current-generation Yukon as of this writing.