2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Land Rover Range Rover

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was a stylish addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting neatly between the GLA and GLC in both size and name. Its design was characterized by a sleek, athletic stance, enhanced by a ground clearance of 7.9 inches, making it more versatile for various road conditions. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern aesthetic, featuring round shapes across the dash and polished metal details in the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The cabin boasted excellent fit and finish, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen, providing a seamless and elegant look.

In contrast, the 2022 Land Rover Range Rover underwent an evolutionary redesign, maintaining its broad, rounded face and large expanses of sheet metal. The most notable exterior change was the integration of thin LED strips in the rear, replacing the old square taillights. Inside, the Range Rover simplified its design with fewer buttons and a larger tablet-like touchscreen, offering a modern look. The interior was luxurious, with premium leather and rich wood trim, providing a refined experience. The Range Rover emphasized its size and presence, especially in the long-wheelbase version, which added eight inches in length.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, it offered a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The GLB's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the FWD version. The optional 4MATIC AWD improved handling and included the Off-Road Engineering Package, enhancing its capability on various terrains.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover offered two powertrains: a base P400 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, and an optional P530 with a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine delivering 523 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD. The P400 achieved a 0-60 mph time of 5.8 seconds, impressive for its nearly 6,000-pound weight. The Range Rover excelled in off-road capability, thanks to its Terrain Response system, and offered a smooth, quiet ride.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between two and three-row configurations. The second row featured adjustable seatbacks and a sliding function, while the third row was best suited for children due to limited legroom. Cargo space varied from 27.0 cubic feet in the two-row model to 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row in the three-row version. The front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover provided ample space in the first two rows, enhanced by large windows and a panoramic sunroof. The front seats offered massage functions, and the cabin featured numerous storage options. The second row accommodated taller passengers with power recline and sliding adjustments. The optional third row was accessible via a button, though headroom was limited for adults. Cargo space ranged from 17.1 cubic feet behind the third row to 93 cubic feet with the seats folded. The split tailgate and adjustable air suspension facilitated loading and unloading.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring voice control and a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium Package upgraded the displays to 10.25 inches and added a Burmester Surround Sound System. Optional features included navigation with augmented reality, adaptive damping, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover featured a new Pivi Pro infotainment system with a 13-inch touchscreen, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Meridian audio system provided excellent sound quality, with an optional 35-speaker upgrade. Additional tech included Amazon Alexa integration, remote automated parking, and a Wi-Fi hotspot.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB included standard safety features such as active brake assist and crosswind assist. The Driver Assistance Package added advanced features like adaptive cruise control and active lane-keeping assist. Pre-Safe technology prepared the cabin for imminent collisions, and Pre-Safe Sound helped protect hearing.

The 2022 Land Rover Range Rover came standard with frontal collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera system. While it lacked some advanced features found in rivals, its safety systems performed reliably, especially the surround-view cameras for off-roading.