2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Cadillac XT6

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 exuded sophistication with its design, mirroring the styling cues of the XT4 and XT5 crossovers. Available in Luxury, Premium Luxury, and Sport trims, the XT6 Sport featured a traditionally-styled grille with darkened accents, 20-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, and slim all-LED headlights, giving it a premium and distinctly Cadillac appearance. The interior, similar to the XT5 but larger, offered three color options and could be upgraded with the Platinum Package for semi-aniline leather upholstery and other premium touches. However, some dashboard elements appeared less premium, though the overall feel was still attractive.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in Mercedes' lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The AMG GLB35, with its black grille louvers and badges, metallic paint, and 21-inch wheels, had a distinctive and sporty look. The interior was a highlight, featuring high-definition displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting. However, the controls required acclimation, and the quality in some areas revealed its entry-level status. The road noise was also notable, especially with the larger wheels, which could detract from the luxury experience.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 Sport was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine producing 310 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The base XT6 Luxury model had a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine with 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The V6 provided smooth acceleration, but the XT6 Sport's 4,690-pound weight made it feel less dynamic, especially in turns and under acceleration. Fuel economy for the V6 was 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined with FWD, slightly lower with AWD. The XT6 offered a Smart Towing package and had competitive fuel economy figures for its class.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in both versions. The AMG GLB35's engine was enhanced to produce 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, significantly more than the GLB250. The AMG GLB35 also had an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, AMG Performance AWD, and AMG Sport Exhaust system. It could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and some throttle lag, but excelled on twisty roads. The GLB250 was better suited for daily driving, offering a more comfortable and quieter experience.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 offered comfortable seating for seven, with optional captain’s chairs in the second row. Adults could fit in the third row, but the XT6 had less space than some competitors. Interior storage was limited, and the wireless phone charger was not easily accessible. However, the XT6 excelled in cargo space, with power-folding third-row seats and a high cargo load floor. The power liftgate and remote-folding second-row seats added convenience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for urbanites needing a roomy but small SUV. It offered dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable front seats, and optional leather upholstery. The rear seats were comfortable for two adults, with an optional third row suitable for children. The GLB had a power rear liftgate and a 22 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second row folded. The interior was well-designed, though storage could be improved.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 featured an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, tri-zone climate control, and an eight-speaker Bose audio system. Upgrades included a 14-speaker Bose system, navigation, and enhanced wireless charging. The infotainment screen was smaller than competitors, sometimes appearing crowded or lacking information.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features were Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. Upgrades included satellite radio, navigation with augmented reality, wireless charging, and a Burmester audio system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and multiple control methods, though some features required acclimation.

The 2021 Cadillac XT6 came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, and a high-definition rearview camera. Premium Luxury and Sport models added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Assist Package offered adaptive cruise control and enhanced emergency braking. The XT6 received a five-star frontal crash test rating from NHTSA and was named a "Top Safety Pick+" by IIHS.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Standard safety features were forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and driver monitoring. The GLB had rain-sensing wipers and an emergency call service. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.