2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, with its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork, presented a balanced aesthetic that was neither offensive nor overly striking. Despite its resemblance to an athletic sneaker from certain angles, the GLE 53 Coupe managed to maintain a sophisticated appearance. Inside, the vehicle was luxurious, featuring high-end materials like Nappa premium leather, a Dinamica simulated suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim. The dual-screen instrumentation and infotainment design added a high-tech feel, though the lack of traditional controls required some acclimation.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, particularly in AMG GLB35 spec, offered a more utilitarian design with a focus on function over form. The GLB's steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs emphasized practicality. However, the 21-inch multi-spoke wheels and the beautifully rendered interior with high-definition displays and artistic air vents added a touch of style. The GLB's cabin was a treat both day and night, thanks to features like ambient lighting. Despite its high-tech interior, the GLB required some time to get used to its unconventional controls.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe was powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 429 hp at 6,100 rpm and 384 pound-feet of torque from 1,800 rpm to 5,800 rpm. The engine featured EQ Boost, a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that added extra power when needed and helped conserve fuel. The EPA estimated a combined fuel economy of 19 mpg, but our test vehicle achieved 18.5 mpg. The GLE 53 Coupe also boasted a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission, AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD, and an AMG Dynamic Select system with multiple driving modes. The AMG Active Ride Control suspension and AMG Performance brakes further enhanced its performance.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, particularly the AMG GLB35 version, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 302 hp between 5,800 rpm and 6,100 rpm, and 295 pound-feet of torque between 3,000 rpm and 4,000 rpm. This was a significant upgrade 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. The SUV could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. Our test vehicle averaged 21.8 mpg. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, but the ride was firm, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe could technically seat five people, but it was more comfortable for four, especially if the rear passengers were adults. The front seats offered numerous power adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, making them comfortable for long drives. The rear seats provided ample legroom, and the cargo area offered 27.5 cubic feet of space, expandable to 63.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. Additional comfort features included heated rear seats, a four-zone automatic climate control system, and an Air Balance in-cabin fragrance system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for urbanites needing a roomy yet compact SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat suitable for children, dual-zone automatic climate control, and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB's interior featured simulated leather upholstery, with options for real leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic glass sunroof. The rear doors opened wide, providing comfortable seating for two adults, though the middle seat was less ideal. The optional third-row seat reduced cargo space, but the standard cargo area offered 22 cubic feet, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came standard with the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring dual 12.3-inch screens, a navigation system, satellite radio, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology and multiple interaction methods. Optional features included an MBUX Interior Assistant with gesture recognition, augmented video for navigation, a head-up display, and an upgraded Burmester 3D high-end surround-sound system.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB also featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the AMG GLB35. 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 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came equipped with numerous safety features, including forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection, forward automatic emergency braking, and a blind-spot monitoring system. The Driver Assistance Package added 15 additional systems, including Traffic Jam Assist, Active Lane Change Assist, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. The GLE Coupe's lane-keeping assistance technology was particularly effective, and the adaptive cruise control's route-based speed adaptation function could be turned off if desired. Crash-test results for the GLE Coupe were unavailable, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

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 evasive steering assist, 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. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.