Mercedes-Benz GLB vs Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering both GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 came with front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain with an advanced AWD system. Notable updates included satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus with black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35 also introduced a new Rose Gold paint color. Starting at $38,600 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $51,000, with our test model totaling $57,250 with options. Despite its boxy design, the GLB's interior was a highlight, featuring high-definition displays and ambient lighting. However, the controls required acclimation, and the cabin's quality reflected its entry-level status, with noticeable road noise, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ was a striking presence on the road, with its long hood and low ground clearance giving it a sedan-like appearance. Inspired by the Seville Elegante of the early 1980s, the LYRIQ featured a long wheelbase, short tail, and wide track. Its face was adorned with vertical light bars and nine LED headlights that performed a light show upon unlocking. The grille, with its lighting effects, varied across trims, with the Sport trim offering a muted dark triangular motif. The LYRIQ's design was further enhanced by thin, deployable door handles and wraparound taillights. Inside, Cadillac paid attention to detail, with leather-wrapped seats, polished controls, and a sweeping 33-inch OLED display. However, the floating center console lacked functionality, and some interior elements seemed cobbled together, detracting from its luxury appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine across both versions. The AMG GLB35 was tuned to deliver 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, significantly more than the GLB250's engine. It came equipped with an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. The AMG GLB35 could accelerate to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, emphasizing performance over comfort. While the AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads, its firm ride and loud road noise made it less suitable for daily driving compared to the GLB250.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, despite its sporty exterior, was more at home on the interstate, offering a calm and poised ride. Its dual-motor powertrain produced 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, with a 102-kilowatt-hour battery pack providing a claimed range of 307 miles with AWD. However, real-world testing showed a range closer to 260 miles. The LYRIQ's handling was hampered by its 5,800-pound weight, resulting in significant understeer and uninspiring steering feel. While braking was strong, the lack of handling-enhancing features like torque vectoring and magnetic dampers was noticeable. The LYRIQ's regenerative braking system helped reduce stress on the friction brakes, but the overall chassis needed improvement.

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, with options for heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. The GLB's cargo area provided 22 cubic feet of space, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. However, the optional third-row seat reduced storage space and was less practical for U.S. buyers.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, while offering generous headroom and legroom, sacrificed cargo space for a spacious back seat. Its cargo hold measured 28 cubic feet behind the seats and 60.8 cubic feet when folded. The interior had functionality issues, with a glovebox that couldn't be easily accessed while driving and a floating console that left valuables exposed. The rotary selector for the touchscreen was less intuitive than direct touch, and some physical elements seemed poorly integrated, detracting from its luxury appeal.

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. Optional upgrades included satellite radio, a navigation system with augmented reality, and a Burmester premium audio system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant that responded accurately to prompts.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ boasted a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls for lighting and trip information. The infotainment system ran native Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The available Super Cruise system provided excellent hands-free driving capabilities, while the 19-speaker AKG stereo offered variable surround sound modes. However, the lack of an augmented reality video feed was a drawback.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. However, the absence of advanced safety features like evasive steering assist and lane-keeping assistance was notable.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ had not been crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS. Standard safety features included forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, a 360-degree camera system, and rear emergency braking. The Safety Alert Seat provided tactile feedback instead of audible alerts.