2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Lexus GX

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 Black Line Special Edition, evaluated in Black Onyx, was a striking vehicle that eradicated almost all chrome from its exterior, transforming it into a rolling black hole. Despite its bold appearance, the GX quickly accumulated dust, making it look drab and old. The design of the GX, with its signature Lexus spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights, was reminiscent of the first-generation 2002 GX 470, giving it an outdated look. However, the cabin quality was impeccable, featuring smooth, silky refinement and a quiet interior, with only the faint roar of the V8 engine audible.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, particularly in AMG GLB35 spec, offered a more modern and stylish appearance. The test vehicle featured metallic paint, 21-inch wheels, and an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in premium leather. The GLB’s design was functional, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs. The interior was beautifully rendered, with full-color high-definition instrumentation and infotainment displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the road noise was quite loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460, with a base curb weight of 5,126 pounds, was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine producing 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque at 3,500 rpm. This powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a full-time 4WD system, allowed the GX to tow up to 6,500 pounds. The GX’s drag coefficient of 0.35 and its ponderous curb weight contributed to an EPA fuel economy estimate of 16 mpg in combined driving. The standard Kinetic Dynamics Suspension System (KDSS) helped maximize wheel articulation off-road while improving stability on pavement. However, the slow, heavy steering and touchy brake pedal detracted from the overall driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, particularly the AMG GLB35 version, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The AMG GLB35 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. The AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and AMG Sport Exhaust system enhanced the driving experience. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension provided excellent handling and braking performance. However, the ride was firm, and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response.

The 2022 Lexus GX offered an elevated driving position with a 10-way power-adjustable seat and clear outward visibility. The interior featured comfortable seats and physical controls, though some switchgear was outdated. The Black Line Special Edition models had NuLuxe upholstery, black ash wood trim, and a black headliner. The rear seat was tricky to access, and the third-row seat was cramped and eliminated cargo space. The GX’s cargo capacity was limited, with 11.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 46.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 64.7 cubic feet with the second row folded. The side-swinging tailgate further complicated loading.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB provided a roomy interior with standard dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The optional third-row seat was suitable for children but reduced cargo space. The GLB’s cargo area offered 22 cubic feet behind the second row and 62 cubic feet with the second row folded. The power rear liftgate made loading easier. The interior featured MB-Tex upholstery, with options for real leather, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic glass sunroof. The rear seats were comfortable, with ample legroom and easy access.

The 2022 Lexus GX 460 featured a new 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa, and navigation. The system was easy to use, with excellent voice recognition technology. However, the stereo controls were awkwardly placed below the off-roading controls, making them harder to use. The GX also offered a CD player, a Lexus app, and Lexus Enform connected services, including a WiFi hotspot. The available 17-speaker Mark Levinson premium surround-sound audio system was not included in the test vehicle. The GX also had standard Intuitive Parking Assist technology and optional surround-view and terrain-view cameras.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The optional Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included a navigation system with augmented reality. Additional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium surround-sound audio system, WiFi service, and an MBUX Interior Assistant gesture control system. The natural voice recognition and digital assistant worked well, though the navigation system’s augmented reality technology was particularly impressive.

The 2022 Lexus GX, with its older structural design, lacked crash-test ratings. However, it came with standard Lexus Safety System+, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. The GX also had blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and Safety Connect services with automatic collision notification and emergency calling. However, it lacked more advanced safety technologies such as lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, and evasive steering assist.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, despite its high price, did not include the optional Driver Assistance Package, which added 12 advanced safety features. The test vehicle lacked adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and rear cross-traffic warning systems. However, it did include Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Standard features also included rain-sensing wipers, an Attention Assist driver monitoring system, and Exit Warning Assist. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.