2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Volvo XC60

The 2022 Volvo XC60 underwent subtle styling updates, enhancing its sporty appeal with a new front fascia featuring "air blades" and a redesigned rear bumper that conceals the tailpipes. The front grille was reworked to house sensors for driver-assist systems behind a heated Volvo logo, ensuring functionality in cold weather. The XC60 shared its Scalable Product Architecture (SPA) platform with other Volvo models, maintaining a clean interior design with a portrait-oriented touchscreen and minimal clutter. While the B6 R-Design model added flair with aluminum mesh speaker grilles and textured seats, the overall interior felt subdued compared to other Volvo models. The Inscription trim offered Nappa leather upholstery and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB positioned itself 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, but the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added style. The interior, true to Mercedes-Benz tradition, was beautifully rendered with high-definition displays and ambient lighting, though the controls required some acclimation.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 introduced new B5 and B6 mild-hybrid powertrains, replacing the previous T5 and T6 versions. Both powertrains combined a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a 48-volt electrical system, adding 13 horsepower in short bursts. The B6 also included an electric supercharger. The B5 delivered 258 hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the B6 offered 295 hp and 310 lb-ft. Both used an eight-speed automatic transmission, with the B5 offering FWD or AWD and the B6 exclusively AWD. The XC60 B5 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, while the B6 achieved it in 5.9 seconds. The XC60 emphasized luxury over performance, with a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, enhanced by optional air suspension. The plug-in hybrid XC60 Recharge offered 400 hp and 472 lb-ft, reaching 60 mph in 5 seconds, while the Polestar Engineered version increased output to 415 hp and 494 lb-ft, with a 4.9-second 0-60 mph time.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 producing 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. 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, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and some throttle lag, but excelled on twisty roads with excellent grip and responsive brakes. The GLB250, while slower, was better suited for daily driving.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 maintained competitive passenger space, with above-average front-seat headroom but limited rear-seat headroom. Legroom was average, and cargo space measured 21.6 cubic feet with the rear seats up and 49.8 cubic feet with them folded. Plug-in hybrid models offered slightly less cargo space. The XC60 provided a commanding driving position with good visibility, aided by large exterior mirrors.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a roomy interior with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats, with options for leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a panoramic sunroof. The GLB's cargo area measured 22 cubic feet, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The third-row seat reduced storage space and was less practical in the U.S. market.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 received a tech overhaul with a 9-inch touchscreen running Android Automotive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The system integrated Google Assistant for voice control and Google Maps for navigation, with over-the-air updates. While Android users could sync profiles, iPhone compatibility was promised without added functionality. The system's graphics were praised, with a new layout for easy navigation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included 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, and a head-up display. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant, though navigation recommendations were occasionally off.

The 2022 Volvo XC60 had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but the 2021 model received top ratings. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. New features for 2022 included Ready to Drive Notification and Emergency Stop Assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist driver-assistance system was available as an option.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The test vehicle had Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and other standard features. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.