2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Volvo XC40

The 2021 Volvo XC40 presented a more traditional SUV aesthetic compared to other small luxury crossovers, featuring a tall, flat roof and an upright rear hatch. It seamlessly integrated with the rest of the Volvo lineup, showcasing signature design elements like the “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights and a simple oval grille. Gasoline models offered a unique touch with an optional white contrasting roof, adding a retro flair. The XC40 Recharge, Volvo's electric variant, differentiated itself with a blanked-off grille, subtle “Recharge” badging, and model-specific alloy wheels. It also featured a gloss black roof and mirror caps, a modified rear bumper, and a unique Sage Green Metallic color. Despite these differences, the Recharge maintained a low-key appearance, appealing to those who preferred a subtle electric vehicle.

The interior of the XC40 was minimalist yet luxurious, with high-quality materials such as real metal trim and a combination of Nappa leather and Nubuck textile upholstery. The design was cohesive, with elements like the portrait-oriented touchscreen and air vents blending harmoniously. Unlike many competitors, Volvo did not compromise on interior design to meet a price point, offering a premium feel throughout.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. The AMG GLB35 featured a starting price of $51,000, with options like metallic paint, 21-inch wheels, and heated front seats pushing the total to $57,250. The GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window, prioritizing function over form. However, the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added some style and presence.

Inside, the GLB's cabin was a testament to Mercedes-Benz's tradition of luxury, with high-definition instrumentation and infotainment displays, and artistic air vents that glowed with ambient lighting. The controls required some acclimation, with unconventional features like a steering wheel stalk for gear selection and touch-sensing buttons. Despite its entry-level status, the GLB's quality was evident, though road noise was pronounced, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered a three-tiered powertrain lineup, with the electric Recharge at the top. The gasoline options included a 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base FWD T4 produced 187 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, while the AWD T5 delivered 248 hp and 258 lb-ft. The Recharge shared its powertrain with the Polestar 2, featuring dual electric motors for AWD, generating a combined 402 hp and 486 lb-ft. It utilized a 78-kilowatt-hour battery pack, with 75 kWh of usable capacity, enabling a 0-60 mph time of 4.7 seconds. The T5 and T4 achieved 0-60 mph in 6.1 and 8.1 seconds, respectively. All versions were electronically limited to 112 mph. The Recharge emphasized luxury and comfort, offering excellent ride quality and one-pedal driving capability. It also had a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine across both versions. The AMG GLB35 was enhanced to produce 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the GLB250's engine by 81 hp and 37 lb-ft. The AMG GLB35 included 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, 1.8 seconds faster than the GLB250. The AMG GLB35's fuel economy was rated at 22 mpg combined, slightly lower than the GLB250's 25 mpg. The AMG GLB35 prioritized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, especially in Sport+ mode. However, it exhibited throttle lag and brake grab in urban settings, and the ride was firm with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 offered no difference in passenger or cargo space between the Recharge and gasoline models. However, it was less spacious than competitors like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, with less legroom and headroom. The cargo area was also smaller, and the frunk was limited due to powertrain hardware. The gasoline XC40 was more competitive in interior space compared to rivals like the Audi Q3 and BMW X1. Volvo compensated with clever storage solutions, such as a removable trash bin in the center console and a bag hook in the glovebox door. The Harman Kardon audio system's speakers were moved to the dashboard, allowing for larger door bins. A wireless charging pad was optional, but second-row occupants lacked phone-charging options.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet small SUV, offering an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats, with simulated leather upholstery. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic glass sunroof were available. The GLB provided easy access and a commanding view for front occupants. The rear doors opened wide, accommodating two adults comfortably, though the middle seat was cramped. An optional third-row seat reduced cargo space. The GLB's power rear liftgate revealed a 22 cubic-foot cargo area, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2021 Volvo XC40 Recharge featured the Android Automotive OS infotainment system, integrating Google apps like Google Assistant and Google Maps. It included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity, with a 9-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The Recharge offered OTA update capability, eliminating the need for a start button. The Polestar 2's Digital Key feature was anticipated but not confirmed for the XC40.

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 encompassed Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package offered navigation with augmented reality. Optional upgrades included wireless charging, a Burmester audio system, WiFi, and gesture control. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant. The navigation system's augmented reality was particularly useful in urban areas.

The gasoline 2021 Volvo XC40 earned the highest “Top Safety Pick+” rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA. The electric XC40 Recharge was expected to perform well in crash tests due to its safety cage and redesigned front crash structure. Standard safety features included lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, automatic emergency braking, and more. Optional features encompassed traffic-sign recognition, reverse automatic emergency braking, and Volvo’s Pilot Assist system. The Recharge model featured Volvo’s latest sensor suite, scalable for future driver aids.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included 12 advanced safety features. Missing features included evasive steering assist, lane-departure warning, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The test vehicle did have Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Standard features also included rain-sensing wipers and an Attention Assist driver monitoring system. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.