2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting snugly between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its lineup mates, making it difficult to distinguish without checking the badge. Its design was characterized by an attractive, athletic stance, aided by a ground clearance of 7.9 inches, which was more forgiving on soft roads and speed humps compared to its lower-slung siblings. Inside, the GLB boasted a modern and striking interior, with round shapes repeated across the dash and polished metal details on the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The single panel housing the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen added elegance, while the cabin's fit and finish were of the high standard expected from Mercedes-Benz.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, sharing its platform with the Nissan Armada, presented a good-looking, full-size SUV that was neither too big nor too small. Its front-end styling was distinct, featuring a prominent yet tasteful Infiniti grille, complemented by LED lighting and conservative chrome use for an upscale look. The stylish 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80's cabin was furnished with upscale materials, including wood trim and quilted semi-aniline leather seats, although its design theme closely resembled the Armada. Despite its attractive and comfortable interior, the QX80's style was beginning to show its age, especially when compared to the high standards set by its premium full-size SUV competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a single engine option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering both front-wheel drive and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000. The GLB's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the FWD version, and 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for the AWD version. Weighing between 3,638 and 3,891 pounds, the GLB delivered a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The 4MATIC version provided better handling and agility, especially on dry roads and during cornering, and came with the Off-Road Engineering Package for enhanced off-road capabilities.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 was equipped with a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth and seamless shifts. The QX80's power delivery was linear, and the transmission performed well during passing and acceleration. While the QX80's V8 was powerful, it was also thirsty, with Infiniti recommending premium fuel. The SUV offered two-wheel drive as standard, with four-wheel drive available for $3,100. The QX80's off-road capabilities were notable, thanks to its platform based on the Nissan Patrol, and it featured a computer-controlled transfer case with multiple settings. The QX80's towing capacity was an impressive 8,500 pounds, and its Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between two-row and three-row seating configurations. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline angles and a 40:60 split seat bottom that could slide six inches. In the three-row version, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips for smaller adults due to limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 62.0 cubic feet available in the two-row version. The GLB's front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options, while the second row provided ample comfort for two adults.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, thanks to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin offered a spacious and airy feel, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with the optional second-row bench seat, though the third row was cramped for adults. Cargo space was somewhat limited compared to competitors, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 95.1 cubic feet with all seats folded. The power-operated liftgate and third-row seats were convenient but slow to operate. The QX80's interior featured premium touches like illuminated kick plates and radiant exterior welcome lighting.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with options to upgrade to 10.25-inch screens. Smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto was standard, along with a power liftgate and keyless start. The Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and keyless go, while the Multimedia Package offered navigation with augmented reality. Additional options included adaptive damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a new 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch display, providing access to Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The display also included navigation with lane guidance and voice recognition. A Bose 13-speaker sound system was standard, with a 17-speaker system available on the Sensory trim. The QX80 offered a wireless smartphone charger and a dual-screen rear entertainment system, though the lack of HDMI adapters was a drawback. Notably absent was Infiniti's ProPilot Assist system, which was unavailable due to the QX80's older architecture.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a range of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Optional safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and blind-spot assist. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. The GLB had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of writing.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, such as forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, forward-collision warning, and adaptive cruise control. Additional safety features included driver attention alert and front knee airbags. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from the NHTSA, with the structurally similar 2021 model earning four stars for overall crash protection. The IIHS had not rated the QX80 for safety.