2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2023 Mazda CX-50

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain with a sophisticated AWD system. This model year introduced changes like satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus with black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35, priced from $51,000, featured options like metallic paint, 21-inch wheels, and an AMG Performance steering wheel. Despite its design being an acquired taste, the GLB's interior was a highlight, showcasing high-definition displays and ambient lighting. However, the controls required acclimation, and the entry-level Mercedes quality was evident, with road noise being a notable issue.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 exhibited a blend of subtle seductiveness and newfound ruggedness, characterized by its blunt nose, long hood, and rakish windshield. The CX-50's design included blistered fender swells, lower body cladding, and fake skidplates, creating an appealing exterior when paired with the standard black grille and available 20-inch wheels. The model year also introduced the CX-50 Meridian Edition with exclusive wheels and all-terrain tires. The CX-50 came in two versions: the 2.5 S with a 187-hp engine and the 2.5 Turbo with up to 256 hp. Prices ranged from $26,800 to $41,550, with the top-of-the-line CX-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus priced at $43,170. The interior featured black leather with caramel stitching, driver-focused design, and quality materials, though storage space was limited. Overall, the CX-50 was a good-looking compact crossover.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant increase over the GLB250's engine. The AMG GLB35 also 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, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, emphasizing performance over comfort. The GLB250, while not as fast, was better suited for daily driving. Enthusiasts enjoyed the AMG GLB35's dynamic behavior on twisty roads, though it was firm and loud in other situations.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 offered two engine options: the 2.5 S with a 187 hp engine and the 2.5 Turbo with up to 256 hp. The turbo engine's torque varied between 310 lb-ft and 320 lb-ft, depending on the fuel used. The CX-50 2.5 Turbo had a towing capacity of 3,500 pounds, compared to the 2,000 pounds of the 2.5 S. The turbocharged engine provided smooth acceleration with no noticeable turbo lag. The CX-50 featured Normal, Sport, Off-Road, and Towing modes, though the differences between them were subtle. The ride quality was firmer than the CX-5, and there was a hint of torque steer. The CX-50 excelled on pavement, feeling more like a modern station wagon than an SUV. It had 8.6 inches of ground clearance, making it capable of off-roading, though it lacked a downhill assist control system. The CX-50 2.5 Turbo handled towing well, though it might struggle on mountain grades.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a spacious interior for a small SUV, with an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB's interior was comfortable, with easy entry and exit, and a cube-shaped 22 cubic-foot cargo area. Folding the second-row seat flat increased cargo space to 62 cubic feet. However, the optional third-row seat reduced storage space and was not ideal for U.S. buyers.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 provided a comfortable interior with power-adjustable heated front seats, heated rear seats, and a heated steering wheel. The ventilated front seats and dual-zone automatic climate control were effective. The driver and front passenger seats were comfortable, though they could use more side bolstering. The back seat was roomy, with rear air vents and charging ports. Storage space was adequate, though some opportunities for additional storage were missed. The CX-50 offered 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space, with a maximum of 56.3 cubic feet when the rear seats were folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. 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 audio system, and a head-up display. MBUX was accessible via voice recognition, touchscreen, and physical controls, with the navigation system's augmented reality technology being particularly impressive.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 came with the Mazda Connect infotainment system, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mazda Connected Services. The base 2.5 S had an 8.8-inch display, while other trims featured a 10.25-inch display. Mazda Connect historically lacked touchscreen control, but the CX-50 allowed touchscreen use for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The available 12-speaker Bose Centerpoint surround-sound system provided a satisfying audio experience. The CX-50 also offered an Active Driving Display, projecting data within the driver's line of sight.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included 12 advanced safety features. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. The GLB had rain-sensing wipers, an Attention Assist driver monitoring system, and Exit Warning Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2023 Mazda CX-50 was expected to perform well in safety tests, though the IIHS had not yet tested it. The CX-50 offered a comprehensive standard package of driving assistance systems, with additional features available on the 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus trim. These included Traffic Jam Assist, active blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. The driving assistance systems generally worked well, though the adaptive cruise control occasionally failed to recognize slower vehicles cutting in.