Mercedes-Benz GLB vs Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe

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 either front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain and a sophisticated AWD system. The model year introduced changes like satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus with black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35 also offered a new Rose Gold paint color. Starting at $38,600 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $51,000, with our test vehicle 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 road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe expanded its lineup with the 30th Anniversary edition, offering six trim levels, including the Trailhawk, Overland, and Summit Reserve. Prices started at $61,660, with the Summit Reserve reaching $80,320. Our Trailhawk test vehicle, equipped with a panoramic sunroof and tech packages, had an MSRP of $72,630. The Trailhawk was identifiable by its sky blue detailing and matte-black hood decal, designed to reduce glare. Despite its rugged off-road capabilities, the interior fell short of luxury expectations, with excessive plastic and glossy surfaces that attracted dust. The seating was firm and lacked support, and the rear legroom was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine in both versions. The AMG GLB35 was enhanced to deliver 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the GLB250's engine by 81 hp and 37 lb-ft. It included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. The AMG GLB35 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, 1.8 seconds faster than the GLB250. The EPA rated its fuel economy at 22 mpg combined, with our testing averaging 21.8 mpg. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, emphasizing performance over comfort. The AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads, offering a thrilling driving experience, though it was firm and loud in other settings.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe combined a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with a 17.3-kilowatt-hour lithium-ion battery pack and an 8-speed automatic transmission, producing 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque. It could tow up to 6,000 pounds and featured a standard 4WD system with a two-speed transfer case. The Trailhawk offered Selec-Terrain technology with multiple driving modes and a height-adjustable air suspension. It provided 10.9 inches of ground clearance and could ford 24 inches of water. The EPA estimated 25 miles of all-electric range and 23 mpg combined. However, our testing showed only 21.2 miles of electric range and 19.3 mpg in hybrid mode. The Trailhawk excelled off-road but struggled with drivetrain power delivery and handling on regular roads.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a spacious interior for a 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 sunroof were available. The GLB provided 22 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second row folded. The third-row seat reduced storage space and was not ideal for U.S. buyers needing a three-row SUV.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe struggled with practical storage and cargo space due to its off-roading hardware. The Trailhawk featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats with leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. However, the seats were firm and lacked support, and rear legroom was tight. The cargo area offered 37.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 70.8 cubic feet with seats folded, which was small for a midsize SUV.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (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.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe boasted up to six screens, including a head-up display and rear-seat entertainment system. The Trailhawk had a 10.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and a 10.1-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Uconnect 5 technology. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM, and Jeep Connect services. The system's graphics were low-contrast, and voice recognition was average. The Trailhawk also featured a 10.3-inch passenger infotainment screen, which went unused during testing.

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. The GLB had no crash-test ratings available.

The 2023 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe came with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Trailhawk added an active blind-spot monitoring system and Advanced ProTech Group II, which included intersection assist, a surround-view camera, and Night Vision. The Grand Cherokee 4xe received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS, though the latter did not specifically test the 4xe version.