Chevrolet Trax vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax, based on the model introduced in 2015, carried over the design updates from 2017, which included standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. In 2020, the infotainment system was updated, and by 2021, the Premier trim was dropped, leaving only the LS and LT trims. The LS trim featured 16-inch painted aluminum wheels, remote keyless entry, cloth upholstery, manually adjustable front seats, dual front USB ports, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The LT trim added heated, power-adjustable side mirrors, rear window tint, roof rails, LED head- and taillights, remote start, cruise control, chrome belt-line moldings, and silver-painted skid plates. It also included upgraded cloth and leatherette seats, a cargo security cover, and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered FWD or 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLB35 had a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. Changes for 2022 included satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus. The AMG GLB35 started at $51,000, with options like metallic paint, 21-inch wheels, heated front seats, an AMG Performance steering wheel, and AMG Drive Unit controls. The GLB’s design was functional, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs. The interior featured high-definition instrumentation and infotainment displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. It offered FWD or AWD. While adequate for city driving, the engine struggled at highway speeds and was noisy. The Trax had a firm ride, especially over potholes, but its tight turning radius made it maneuverable in tight spaces. Rivals like the Hyundai Kona and Mazda CX-30 offered more comfortable rides and better driving dynamics. A retuned engine for the 2022 Trax promised 155 horsepower while maintaining 177 pound-feet of torque.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The AMG GLB35 version produced 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, significantly more than the GLB250. The AMG GLB35 had 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 rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG GLB35 included an AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension. While the AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, it exhibited throttle lag and firm ride quality. The GLB250 was better suited for daily driving, but the AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads with its responsive engine, sharp shifts, and excellent grip.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax offered ample headroom and legroom in both rows, though the rear seats lacked bolstering for long trips. The front featured multiple storage trays and low cupholder placement. Cargo space was 18.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The front passenger seat folded flat for larger items. These figures were mid-pack for the subcompact SUV segment, and there was no option for a power liftgate.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet small SUV, with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats with simulated leather upholstery. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a panoramic glass sunroof were available. The GLB’s interior was accessible, with easy entry and exit, and comfortable seating for two adults in the rear. The optional third-row seat reduced cargo space. A power rear liftgate revealed a 22 cubic-foot cargo area, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, featuring easy-to-follow menus and vivid graphics. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, two USB ports, Bluetooth connectivity, voice control, and an available WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB’s MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Standard features were Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included navigation with augmented reality. Optional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium audio system, WiFi service, and an MBUX Interior Assistant. The system could be controlled via voice recognition, touchscreen, physical controls, and steering wheel buttons. The navigation’s augmented reality was particularly useful in dense areas.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received five stars from the NHTSA but did not earn IIHS Top Safety Pick awards. Standard safety features included airbags and a backup camera. The LT Convenience Package added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-path detection, and rear parking sensors. However, advanced safety features like forward-collision avoidance and lane-departure warning were unavailable.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Missing features included evasive steering assist, lane-departure warning, and Active Emergency Stop Assist. Standard safety features were Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, Mercedes-Benz emergency call service, rain-sensing wipers, Attention Assist, and Exit Warning Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.