2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, filled a niche between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC in Mercedes-Benz's extensive SUV lineup. Despite its unique measurements, distinguishing the GLB from its siblings required a close look at the badge. The GLB featured a taut, athletic stance with 7.9 inches of ground clearance, making it more versatile for soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, highlighted by round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin's fit and finish were top-notch, and the beefy steering wheel with perforated leather grips added to the driving experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator received subtle styling updates, including new headlights, taillights, and a restyled front end. While the new grille design was less elegant than before, the rest of the updates were successful. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln's Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen display was a significant upgrade, offering ample display acreage. The Navigator continued to offer standard and long-wheelbase styles with various trim levels, starting at $78,405. The Black Label trim, with its luxurious Central Park theme, was particularly impressive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a single engine option: a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLB offered front-wheel drive as standard and optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive for an additional $2,000. Fuel economy was respectable, with EPA estimates of 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for FWD and 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for AWD. The GLB's curb weight ranged from 3,638 to 3,891 pounds, and it could accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 130 mph. The 4MATIC version provided better handling and off-road capabilities, thanks to the Off-Road Engineering Package.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering a robust 440 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Navigator offered rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Towing capacity ranged from 8,100 to 8,700 pounds, depending on the configuration. The Navigator's adaptive-damping suspension, updated with Road Preview, provided a smooth ride even on imperfect pavement. The new electronic brake booster improved brake pedal feel and response. The Navigator's fuel economy was estimated at 18 mpg combined for the 4WD model, and it performed well in various driving conditions, including snow and mud.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a critical choice: whether to add the third-row option. The third row affected the second row and cargo compartments, with the second row featuring a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom. The third row was retractable, folding flat when not needed. Cargo space varied, with 27.0 cubic feet behind the second row and 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded in the two-row model. The three-row model offered 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 24.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 56.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, while the second row was suitable for two adults.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to impress with its exceptionally comfortable 30-way power-adjustable front seats, which were heated, ventilated, and massaging. The second-row captain's chairs, also heated, ventilated, and massaging, provided a luxurious experience. The third-row seat remained roomy and supportive, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. The Navigator offered generous storage and cargo space, with 19.3 cubic feet behind the third row (34.3 cubic feet for Navigator L), 57.5 cubic feet with the third row folded (73.3 cubic feet for Navigator L), and a maximum of 103.3 cubic feet with the second row collapsed (120.2 cubic feet for Navigator L).

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was packed with technology, including the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, a rearview camera, smartphone integration, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package added 10.25-inch displays, keyless go, and a Burmester Surround Sound System. The optional Multimedia Package included navigation with augmented reality and traffic-sign assist. Other advanced options included adaptive damping, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless charging, parking assistance, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator received a significant upgrade with the new Sync 4 infotainment system and a 13.2-inch touchscreen display. The system supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay and offered user profiles for personalized settings. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The upgraded Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system featured Amazon Fire TV, providing access to popular streaming services. The test vehicle also had a new 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system, delivering an exceptional audio experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured standard safety technology, including active brake assist, adaptive braking with hill-start assist and brake hold, crosswind assist, attention assist, and emergency call service. Available 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, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, active speed limit assist, active blind-spot assist, active lane-keeping assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. The GLB had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Road Edge Detection, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was also newly standard. Intersection Assist could automatically brake for unsafe movements, while Road Edge Detection steered the SUV away from road edges. Active Park Assist 2.0 took control of parking maneuvers, and ActiveGlide provided semi-autonomous, hands-free driving on approved highways. While ActiveGlide performed well, it required the driver to remain attentive.