2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was an extended version of the standard Escalade, featuring a complete redesign for that model year. It was notably longer than the regular Escalade, measuring 226.9 inches compared to 211.9 inches, which enhanced its cargo space. The ESV also had a longer wheelbase of 134.1 inches, contributing to improved stability and better design proportions. The exterior boasted chrome styling on Luxury trims and blacked-out accents on Sport trims, all riding on 22-inch wheels. Despite its luxurious appearance, the interior fell short in terms of poshness, with hard plastics and a lack of unique dashboard trimmings, which was disappointing for a vehicle priced near or above $90,000.

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 front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 featured a more powerful drivetrain. The AMG GLB35 came with a starting price of $51,000, with options like metallic paint, 21-inch wheels, and AMG Performance steering wheel. The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs, but the interior was beautifully rendered with high-definition displays and artistic air vents. However, the controls required acclimation, and the road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV offered a choice between a 6.2-liter V8 engine delivering 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel inline-six engine producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and available with rear-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. The V8 engine provided sufficient power but lacked low-end torque for passing at higher speeds. The Escalade ESV's fuel economy was not rated by the EPA, but the traditional Escalade achieved an estimated 17 to 23 mpg combined. During testing, the RWD Escalade ESV averaged around 18 mpg.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The AMG GLB35 had an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD. 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. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard. The GLB250 was better suited for daily driving, while the AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV was designed for comfort and cargo, with leatherette seating surfaces and available leather upholstery. Standard features included 12-way power-adjustable front seats, heated first- and second-row seats, and a hands-free power liftgate. The ESV offered 126.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, 81.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 42.9 cubic feet behind the third row. The power-adjustable third row could be folded using a switch in the cargo area. The hands-free power liftgate worked inconsistently, and the rear window could open for additional storage.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for urbanites needing a roomy yet small SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat for children and standard dual-zone automatic climate control. The GLB's cargo area provided 22 cubic feet of space, expandable to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded. The power rear liftgate was standard, and the interior featured simulated leather upholstery with available real leather. The GLB's rear doors opened wide, providing comfortable seating for two adults, though the optional third-row seat reduced storage space.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV featured a standard 19-speaker AKG sound system, with an optional 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference audio system. It included wireless charging, NFC phone pairing, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and seven USB ports. The Escalade ESV's 38-inch OLED screen housed three displays for driver information and infotainment. Super Cruise, an advanced driving assist system, was available, allowing hands-free driving on certain roadways. However, Super Cruise occasionally failed, requiring immediate driver intervention.

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 included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included a navigation system with augmented reality. The GLB's MBUX technology was accessible via natural voice recognition, touchscreen, and steering wheel controls. The navigation system's augmented reality technology was particularly useful in densely populated areas.

The 2021 Cadillac Escalade ESV came standard with front automatic braking, front and rear park assist, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Additional technologies included adaptive park assist, a head-up display, and night vision. The NHTSA gave the Escalade ESV a four-star rating, with a three-star rating in the rollover test.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle 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 rain-sensing wipers. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.