2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering both GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 came with either front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain with an advanced AWD system. Notable updates included the addition of satellite radio to the Premium Package and the introduction of the AMG Night Package Plus, featuring black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35 also introduced a new Rose Gold paint option. Starting at $38,600 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $51,000, with our test model totaling $57,250 after options. Despite its boxy design, the GLB's interior was a highlight, showcasing high-definition displays and ambient lighting. However, the controls required acclimation, and the road noise was pronounced, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid presented a bold design that could polarize opinions, particularly with its flat, wide grille. The vehicle's personality varied with color and trim, with the X-Line and X-Pro models offering distinct grille styles and amber accent lights. The side profile featured angular fender sculpting and unique black plastic tabs, while the rear resembled a Range Rover with rounded corners and vertical taillights. Inside, the Telluride's dashboard was simple and modern, with the Hybrid SX Prestige trim offering a luxurious two-tone palette. The seats, covered in synthetic leather and suede, were somewhat firm, but the surrounding materials were of excellent quality. The Telluride's interior was spacious, with various trim options, including engineered wood and carbon surfaces.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant increase over the GLB250's engine. The AMG GLB35 also included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, especially in Sport+ mode. However, it could be loud and finicky in everyday driving.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid combined a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with electric motors, producing 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed transmission and was not available in the off-road-capable X-Pro trims. The Hybrid offered a smooth and quiet ride, with seamless transitions between electric and gas power. The Telluride was tuned for comfort, with a luxuriously smooth ride and minimal wind noise. On winding roads, it was composed and controllable, though not particularly sporty. The brake pedal required some getting used to, but the vehicle performed well in panic stops.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a relatively roomy interior for a small SUV, with an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB provided 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the seats folded. The third-row seat reduced storage space and was not ideal for adults.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid provided ample space for adults in all three rows, though the third row was better suited for smaller passengers. The Hybrid SX Prestige trim featured power-adjustable second-row seats with heating and ventilation. The Telluride offered 22.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 89.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. The Hybrid models lost only about one cubic foot of cargo space. The Telluride could tow up to 5,000 pounds, or 4,500 for the Hybrid.

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, and Android Auto. The Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included a navigation system with augmented reality. Additional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging and a Burmester premium audio system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant.

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid came with a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel, a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, and a 5-inch touchscreen for climate controls. The infotainment system included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with dual wireless phone chargers. The system was easy to use, though it required a firm tap to register inputs. The Telluride SX trim and above featured a 14-speaker Meridian premium audio system, delivering powerful and clear sound.

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

The 2027 Kia Telluride Hybrid included standard safety features such as frontal collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims offered a surround-view camera system and automatic reverse braking. The driver attention monitor had some operational issues, but the highway driving assist was effective. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of writing.