2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Lincoln Aviator

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator stood out by not mimicking its competitors' styles. Instead, it adopted the successful design language of the larger Navigator, resulting in a sharp-looking vehicle with crisp lines and tasteful chrome accents. Inside, the Aviator differentiated itself from its Ford counterpart with a luxurious cabin featuring soft-touch materials, chrome accents, and a standard 10.1-inch touchscreen. The piano button shifter and soothing chimes added to the Aviator's air of class and luxury.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in Mercedes' SUV lineup, offering a choice between the GLB250 and the more powerful AMG GLB35. The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window. The interior, however, was beautifully rendered with high-definition displays and artistic air vents. The controls required some acclimation, and the quality was evident in various spots, though road noise was an issue, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator came with a 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Grand Touring and Grand Touring Black Label trims featured a plug-in hybrid configuration, boosting output to 494 hp and 630 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid powertrain offered brisk acceleration and a smooth power delivery, though the Aviator's heft resulted in noticeable body roll in corners and awkward maneuvering in tight spaces.

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. The AMG GLB35 had 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 and averaged 21.8 mpg in testing. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance over comfort, with a firm ride and some throttle lag, but it excelled on twisty roads with excellent grip and responsive handling.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator offered 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third-row seats, expandable to 41.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 77.7 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. The second row, especially with captain's chairs, provided ample space and comfort. However, the power-button door releases raised concerns about functionality if the battery died.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet small SUV, with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB offered 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second row folded. The third-row seat reduced storage space and was less practical for U.S. buyers.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator featured a 10.1-inch touchscreen running the intuitive Sync 3 infotainment system, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was easy to use, with a sensible menu layout and redundant controls. The Aviator also had a fully digital instrument panel and an optional head-up display with crisp graphics.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Standard features were Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. Optional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium audio system, and a head-up display. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant.

The 2021 Lincoln Aviator came with the standard Lincoln Co-Pilot 360 package, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and front-and-rear parking sensors. The Co-Pilot 360 Plus package added reverse automatic braking, self-parking functionality, and adaptive cruise control. The Aviator earned top marks from the NHTSA and IIHS, including a Top Safety Pick accolade.

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 Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.