2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan showcased a conservative yet symmetrical design that radiated understated elegance. This model year, it aligned more closely with Volkswagen's larger Atlas models, boasting a restyled grille featuring the new VW logo and optional illuminated grille bar. LED headlights became standard, enhancing the front fascia alongside new nameplate lettering at the rear. Alloy wheels were redesigned, emphasizing the Tiguan’s lean towards a more modern aesthetic without forgoing the classic appeal. Inside, the Tiguan SEL R-Line, in particular, impressed with upscale perforated leather upholstery and ambient lighting offering a spectrum of 15 color choices. However, the use of hard plastics betrayed its mass-market aspirations.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class carved out its niche between the smaller GLA and larger GLC in Mercedes’ lineup, offering unique positioning with its box-like shape and utilitarian focus. It saw the introduction of new aesthetic elements such as the AMG Night Package Plus and a novel Rose Gold paint option for the AMG GLB35. The design of the Mercedes-Benz GLB was utilitarian, a quality further accentuated by the steep windshield and nearly vertical rear window. Inside, it featured high-quality materials and advanced technology customary of Mercedes-Benz, but its entry-level position was evident in more ways than one, such as heightened road noise from the optional 21-inch wheels.

Powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, the 2022 Tiguan maintained 184 horsepower, suitable for daily drives with a slight caveat of turbo lag upon quicker take-offs. The installation of various driving modes including Snow and Offroad enhanced its capability, albeit without significant enhancements in power output or fuel efficiency. The Tiguan's handling remained nimble within typical driving scenarios, indicative of its German engineering roots.

In contrast, the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class came with a similar base engine but was notably amplified in the AMG GLB35 variant, pushing out 302 horsepower and reducing the 0 to 60 mph sprint to just 5.1 seconds. This performance-centric model featured an AMG SpeedShift transmission and sophisticated AWD systems that transformed it into a dynamic and enthusiastic driving partner on winding roads. However, this came at the cost of ride comfort and everyday usability, suggesting a split focus between utilitarian design and performance agility.

Volkswagen’s 2022 Tiguan excelled in spaciousness, effectively rivaling midsize SUVs with available third-row seating in FWD models and generous cargo space—over 73 cubic feet with rear seats folded. This made it a family-friendly option, providing ample room for passengers and gear alike.

The GLB-Class offered a practical but less spacious alternative. It featured optional third-row seating, suitable mainly for children, and up to 62 cubic feet of cargo space with the second-row seats folded. This configuration suited urban dwellers who might find the smaller footprint advantageous in city settings, yet it couldn't surpass the Tiguan in outright practicality.

Every 2022 Tiguan came equipped with Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit. Higher trims enjoyed upgrades like a large 10.25-inch display and premium Fender audio systems, although the infotainment system experienced occasional user interface issues. Volkswagen’s Car-Net provided extensive connectivity but required additional subscriptions for full functionality.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB boasted the MBUX system, known for its intuitive and engaging interface, complete with a high-definition touchscreen and innovative augmented reality navigation. This system presented a more seamless and integrated user experience compared to the Tiguan’s setup, though additional premium features also incurred extra costs.

Standard safety features in the 2022 Tiguan included forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Additions like the IQ Drive enhanced the driving experience with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. These improvements seemed poised to bolster its already commendable safety reputation.

However, the Mercedes-Benz GLB, while standard with active brake assist and blind-spot monitoring, lacked certain advanced features unless additional packages were purchased, which could add significantly to the cost.