2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Lincoln Navigator

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting snugly between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its siblings, showcasing the brand's signature styling. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a generous 20 centimetres of ground clearance, making it more adaptable to varied terrains compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash and polished metal details that evoked an aerospace vibe. The cabin boasted excellent fit and finish, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel.

In contrast, the 2022 Lincoln Navigator underwent subtle styling changes, including new headlights, taillights, and wheel designs, along with an updated Lincoln Embrace nighttime welcome sequence. However, the restyled front end, with its Audi-esque grille, was a rare misstep, lacking the elegance of its predecessor. Inside, the Navigator dazzled with quality materials and a mid-century modern design, featuring Lincoln’s Constellation instrumentation and infotainment display theme. The new Sync 4 infotainment system, with a larger 13.2-inch touchscreen, enhanced the Navigator's tech appeal, while the adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview and a new electronic brake booster improved ride quality and braking response.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive was standard in Canada, providing better handling in adverse weather and on dry roads. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC system included features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator retained its twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive in Canada. The Navigator's towing capacity ranged from 3,674 to 3,765 kilograms, depending on configuration, and it featured Trailer Reverse Guidance technology. The adaptive-damping suspension with Road Preview improved ride quality, while the new electronic brake booster enhanced braking response. The Navigator's fuel consumption was estimated at 13.2 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving, with the SUV averaging 12.6 L/100 km during testing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered an optional third-row seat, affecting the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline and a 40:60 split seat bottom that could slide six inches. In three-row models, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips for smaller adults. Cargo space varied from 764 litres behind the second row in two-row models to 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The GLB's front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator continued to offer exceptionally comfortable front seats with 30-way power adjustment, heating, ventilation, and available massaging functions. The second-row captain’s chairs were also heated, ventilated, and massaging, with an updated Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system. The third row provided roomy accommodations, thanks to the independent rear suspension design. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row, 1,627 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,925 litres with the second row collapsed. The long-wheelbase Navigator L offered even more cargo capacity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the 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-inch displays. Smartphone integration, keyless start, and a power liftgate were standard, while the Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and augmented reality navigation. Additional options included adaptive suspension damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced a new Sync 4 infotainment system with a 13.2-inch touchscreen, offering dual data panels for navigation and music. Physical controls for volume, stereo tuning, and climate functions were retained, with a matte finish for easy readability. Sync 4 supported Bluetooth, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay, with user profiles to save settings. The voice recognition system was improved, though not perfect. The Lincoln Play rear-seat entertainment system now included Amazon Fire TV, providing access to streaming services. The optional 28-speaker Revel 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured standard safety technology like active brake assist, adaptive braking with hill-start assist, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active lane change assist, and active blind-spot assist. Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Sound systems enhanced occupant protection in the event of a collision. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Lincoln Navigator introduced new driver assistance systems, including Intersection Assist, Active Park Assist 2.0, and ActiveGlide. A surround-view camera system was newly standard. Intersection Assist could automatically brake to prevent unsafe movements, while Active Park Assist 2.0 allowed the Navigator to park itself. ActiveGlide, a semi-autonomous driving technology, enabled hands-free driving on approved highways. The system performed well within its operational limits, though drivers were required to remain attentive. ActiveGlide represented a step towards fully autonomous driving, but complete trust in the technology was not yet warranted.