2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC showcased a timeless aesthetic with its soft curves and rounded edges, a design language that Mercedes-Benz has consistently employed across its portfolio. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, almost resembling a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan. This design choice emphasized the SUV's car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an automotive work of art, featuring flowing lines and a minimalist approach. The floating center touchscreen with rounded edges and the overall interior aesthetic set a high bar for compact luxury SUV cabins. In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB had a more functional design, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs. The GLB's interior was beautifully rendered, featuring full-color high-definition instrumentation and artistic air vents that glowed with ambient lighting. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the quality in certain spots revealed its entry-level status. The GLB's design was more about practicality than aesthetics, making it an acquired taste for some.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 came standard with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power was routed through a nine-speed automatic transmission to either the rear wheels or available 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC offered a balanced driving experience with its Dynamic Select drive modes and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC43 and AMG GLC63 variants provided significantly higher performance, with the latter's twin-turbo V8 engine delivering up to 503 horsepower. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB also featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, but the AMG GLB35 version was enhanced to produce 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This version included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD. The AMG GLB35 could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, but its performance came at the cost of daily-driving comfort. The GLB250, while not as fast, offered a more practical and comfortable driving experience for everyday use.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, dropping to 19.4 cubic feet with the seats up. The GLC Coupe's fastback profile reduced these figures to 49.4 and 17.6 cubic feet, respectively. The GLC's interior offered decent rear-seat space and plenty of storage options, making good use of its interior space. The Coupe's low roofline, however, cut into headroom, making the conventional SUV a better choice for most scenarios. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for comfort and cargo, offering an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard equipment included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB's cargo area provided 22 cubic feet of space, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The GLB's interior was practical, with easy access and comfortable seating for two adults in the rear. However, the optional third-row seat reduced storage space and was not ideal for regular use.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring a 10.25-inch center touchscreen, center console touch controller, and advanced voice-control system. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the steering wheel featured touch-sensitive pads for navigating the digital instrument panel and main infotainment screen. The MBUX system was intuitive and seamless once acclimated, though switching between the radio and smartphone music apps could be cumbersome. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB also featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen infotainment system in the AMG GLB35. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. Optional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium surround-sound audio system, and a head-up display. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant that responded accurately to commands.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC came with standard safety features such as automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included a 360-degree parking camera, dynamic cruise control, and lane departure warning. However, the parking and proximity sensors were overly sensitive, causing distractions at intersections. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, despite its high price tag, lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and other advanced safety features. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. The GLB's crash-test ratings were unavailable, but the optional safety package was highly recommended for its sophisticated features.