2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its decade-old body shell, with minor updates over the years, including the signature spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights. Despite its age, the GX's exterior styling remained coherent and distinctive, appealing to SUV enthusiasts with its aggressive look. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury standards, with wood trim resembling plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was a redeeming feature, but overall, the interior felt outdated.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a more contemporary design, slotting between the GLA and GLC in the lineup. The GLB250 and AMG GLB35 variants provided different styling cues, with the latter featuring exclusive vertical grille bars. The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs, but the 21-inch wheels on the AMG GLB35 added some style. Inside, the GLB boasted a beautifully rendered cabin with high-definition displays and artistic air vents, though the controls required some acclimation.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-litre V8 engine, producing 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample grunt at low speeds, the GX's hefty weight of 2,349 kilograms made high-speed maneuvers challenging. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride, but the GX excelled in off-road capability with features like a Torsen centre differential and Multi-Terrain Select. It offered a towing capacity of 2,948 kilograms, but its on-road performance lagged behind modern SUVs.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, particularly the AMG GLB35, emphasized performance with a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLB35 featured an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. However, the ride was firm, and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response. The GLB250 was more suitable for daily driving, while the AMG GLB35 catered to driving enthusiasts.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior ergonomics reflected its age, with limited legroom and an awkward steering wheel angle. The dashboard shape provided excellent outward visibility, but storage space was limited. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best suited for children, and accessing it was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with only 1,833 litres available with the second and third rows folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites with its roomy interior and optional third-row seat. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The GLB offered decent storage, but the optional third-row seat reduced cargo space. The power rear liftgate revealed a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second row folded.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system was outdated, with primitive graphics and limited functionality. However, analog controls were a refreshing alternative to touchscreen interfaces.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. While Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional, the system offered natural voice recognition and a digital assistant. The GLB's technology was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, though some features required additional packages.

The 2021 Lexus GX came with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, including a pre-collision system, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Standard features included Active Brake Assist and blind-spot monitoring, but the package was recommended for enhanced safety.