2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, it was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a strong family resemblance with its siblings, making it difficult to distinguish without checking the badge. Its design was characterized by an athletic stance and a generous 20 centimetres of ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over uneven surfaces. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern and stylish cabin, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The interior boasted excellent fit and finish, with a beefy steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator, while sharing some structural elements with the Ford Expedition, stood out with its unique design and luxurious features. Priced at $97,000, the Navigator exuded elegance and understatement, despite its massive size and 22-inch wheels. Its styling included simple rectilinear shapes, body-colour grille, and full-width taillights, with chrome accents adding a touch of class. The interior was equally impressive, offering seven colour palettes and a taste for finer details, such as layered wood trim and a floating centre console. The Perfect Position seats, adjustable in 30 different ways, provided exceptional comfort. While the Navigator's ride wasn't as supple as some competitors, its low-end thrust and quiet cabin made it a refined choice for highway driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 gasoline unit producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive in Canada, the GLB offered a decent performance for its 1,765-kilogram curb weight. It could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 8.9 on the highway, and 10.1 combined. The GLB's 4MATIC AWD system provided better handling in adverse weather and improved driving feel on dry roads, with features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator featured a powerful twin-turbo V6 engine, borrowed from the Ford Raptor, delivering 450 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. This engine, combined with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada, made the Navigator feel surprisingly agile for its size. It boasted a towing capacity of 3,765 kilograms. However, its fuel efficiency was less impressive, with a combined rating of 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres. While the Navigator's adaptive dampers were standard, its suspension felt less refined compared to competitors, and the steering and brakes lacked the precision found in the Cadillac Escalade. Despite these drawbacks, the Navigator's powerful engine and plush cabin made it a compelling choice for highway cruising.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which significantly impacted the second-row and cargo space. The second-row seatbacks were divided 40:20:40, with adjustable recline angles and sliding sections. In the three-row configuration, the second row featured an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 1,755 litres available in the two-row model. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options, while the second row provided ample comfort for two adults.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator offered a spacious interior, capable of accommodating six adults comfortably. The third row's middle seat was best suited for children, and the second row featured manually reclining captain's chairs, with an optional bench for up to eight passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 behind the second, and 2,925 in total. The Navigator L variant offered even more storage capacity. The front seats were exceptionally comfortable, with numerous adjustments and massage programs. Visibility was excellent, thanks to large windows and a high driving position, although parking could be challenging due to its size.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen multimedia display, with options to upgrade to 10.25 inches. Smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto was standard, along with a power liftgate and cruise control. The Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and keyless go, while the Navigation Package offered augmented reality navigation. Additional options included adaptive suspension damping, ambient lighting, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator's technology felt somewhat dated compared to newer competitors. Its 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system lacked the advanced features found in the Cadillac Escalade, such as full-screen navigation and high-resolution cameras. While it offered Bluetooth and SiriusXM satellite radio, it couldn't wirelessly connect to Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. The 20-speaker Revel Ultima audio system was good but not exceptional. However, the software was intuitive, with fast voice recognition and wireless device charging. The rear entertainment system included Roku media streaming and various connectivity options, while drive mode animations added a touch of flair.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a range of standard safety technologies, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Optional safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active lane change assist, and active brake assist with cross-traffic function. The Pre-Safe system, a long-standing Mercedes-Benz innovation, activated safety measures in the cabin during an imminent collision, while the new Pre-Safe Sound feature helped reduce hearing loss from accidents. The GLB had not yet been rated by major safety organizations.

The 2021 Lincoln Navigator received a five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, with four stars for rollover resistance in 4WD models. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety had not rated the Navigator. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and auto high beams. Optional inflatable rear seat belts provided additional protection for second-row passengers. While adaptive cruise control was available, the Navigator's self-steering capabilities were not as advanced as some competitors.