2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Kia Sorento

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a stylish addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, it was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared the distinctive Mercedes-Benz styling DNA, making it difficult to distinguish from its siblings without checking the badge. Its athletic stance and 20 centimetres of ground clearance gave it a more rugged appearance compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, 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 boasted excellent fit and finish, with a luxurious steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

The 2022 Kia Sorento, particularly in the X-Line trim, offered a stylish and rugged presence with features like matte-finish wheels, black lower body cladding, and robust roof rails. The U.S. specification test vehicle showcased the X-Line package on the top trim, while in Canada, it was a standalone mid-grade package. The Sorento's interior exuded quality, with leather upholstery and simulated wood trim, and the cabin reflected rock-solid construction. The second-row captain’s chairs, starting with the EX trim, were designed with kids in mind, featuring cupholders, USB ports, and climate control vents. However, the third-row seat was less accommodating for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was expandable, with a smart power tailgate for convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive was standard in Canada, providing better handling in various conditions. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC system offered features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Kia Sorento's base engine was a 191-horsepower 2.5-litre four-cylinder, which took nearly 9.5 seconds to reach 60 mph. However, the turbocharged 2.5-litre engine, available from the X-Line trim, delivered 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, offering a more satisfying performance. The turbo engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, providing a sportier driving experience. The Sorento's fuel consumption was rated at 9.7 litres per 100 kilometres with the base engine and 9.9 with the turbo engine, though real-world tests showed higher consumption. The Sorento's suspension offered a balance of comfort and control, making it enjoyable to drive on various terrains.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered an optional third-row seat, affecting the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with adjustable recline and sliding functions. In the five-passenger configuration, cargo space was 764 litres behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The seven-passenger version had 144 litres behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second, and 1,605 litres 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, with Burgundy leather and heated and ventilated front seats. The second-row captain’s chairs were standard from the EX trim, with features like cupholders, USB ports, and climate control vents. The third-row seat was less comfortable for adults, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space was 357 litres behind the third row, expandable to 1,274 litres with the third row folded, and 2,139 litres with the second row down. The Sorento's smart power tailgate added convenience for loading and unloading.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control and natural language understanding. It included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with options to upgrade to 10.25 inches. Standard features included smartphone integration, a rearview camera, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and keyless go. Optional navigation with augmented reality and advanced driver assistance features were also available.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system on lower trims, with a 10.25-inch display on higher trims. The system included navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration, though the larger screen required a cable for connectivity. The Sorento's infotainment system shared technology with Hyundai models, though voice recognition was less effective. A 12-speaker Bose sound system was exclusive to the SX trim, and a wireless phone charger was standard from the LX Premium trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with standard safety features like active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, and crosswind assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. Pre-Safe technology prepared the cabin for an imminent collision, and Pre-Safe Sound helped reduce hearing loss from accidents. The GLB had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Kia Sorento offered a comprehensive list of safety features, including a rear-seat reminder system and Junction Assist. The Blind View Monitor system, exclusive to the SX trim, provided live video feeds of blind spots. Highway Driving Assist offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Sorento received a Top Safety Pick rating from IIHS, with a four-star overall rating from NHTSA. The only negative rating was for the LED headlights in Canada.