2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 INFINITI QX80

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 the distinctive Mercedes-Benz styling DNA, making it challenging to differentiate from its siblings without checking the badge. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a 20-centimetre ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB boasted a modern and striking design, with round shapes repeated across the dash and polished metal details on the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were of the high standard expected from Mercedes-Benz, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80, on the other hand, reflected its Nissan Armada origins with a mix of styling elements from both brands. The body-on-frame construction was shared with the Armada, evident in the roofline and rear window curves. However, the QX80's front end was distinctly Infiniti, featuring a grille and headlight design introduced in 2018, giving it an assertive yet not overly aggressive look. Standard LED headlights, taillights, and fog lights added to its appeal, with higher trims offering additional features like auto-leveling headlights. Inside, the QX80's design leaned heavily on the Armada, with wood trim and contrast stitching adding a touch of luxury. Despite the similarities, the interior felt luxurious, though not exclusive, with some elements like the foot-operated parking brake feeling less high-end.

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. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, featuring wheel-mounted shift paddles. The GLB's 4MATIC all-wheel drive was standard in Canada, providing better handling in various weather conditions. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway. The GLB's powertrain delivered a linear and predictable performance, suitable for family use, with the option to upgrade to the AMG line for more power.

In contrast, the 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 5.6-litre V8 engine, generating 400 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission. The QX80's body-on-frame construction provided a truck-like ride, but the independent suspension and rear auto-leveling feature ensured a comfortable experience. The QX80's 4WD system included a low range and a forward skid plate, enhancing its off-road capabilities. However, its size and wheel-and-tire combinations were more suited for on-road use. The QX80's towing capacity was impressive at 3,855 kilograms, surpassing competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Despite its power, the QX80 felt less composed in corners, with noticeable body roll, but the speed-sensitive power steering helped maintain a relaxed driving style.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between a two-row and a three-row configuration, with the latter affecting the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with adjustable recline and sliding functions. In the three-row version, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips. Cargo space varied significantly between configurations, with the two-row model offering 764 litres behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The three-row model provided 144 litres behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second row, and 1,605 litres with both rows folded. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options, while the second row was spacious for two adults.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 came standard with a seven-seat configuration, featuring second-row captain's chairs and a centre console. An eight-seat option was available on the ProACTIVE grade, replacing the captain's chairs with a 60/40 split-folding bench seat. The front seats offered 10-way and eight-way power adjustments, with standard heating and cooling, though the bottom cushions lacked thigh support. Passenger space was competitive, with ample room in all three rows, though not class-leading. Cargo space was 470 litres with all seats in place, 1,404 litres with the third row folded, and 2,694 litres with both the third and second rows folded. The QX80's power liftgate and power-folding third row made switching between passenger and cargo configurations easy. However, storage space in the centre console was limited, and the front-door cupholders were not well-designed for holding drinks securely.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control, natural language understanding, and keyword activation. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, with options to upgrade to 10.25-inch displays. 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 included augmented reality navigation and traffic-sign assist. Additional options included adaptive suspension damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 featured the Infiniti InTouch dual-screen infotainment system, with 8.0-inch upper and 7.0-inch lower touchscreens, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and standard navigation. A 17-speaker Bose audio system and a rear-seat entertainment system were also standard. However, the user interface was not intuitive, with small screens and complex controls. The Smart Rearview Mirror, which could switch to a streaming-video display, and the Around View Monitor 360-degree camera system were notable features that enhanced the driving experience. Despite these technologies, the overall user experience was hindered by the interface's complexity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a range of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety upgrades included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and active distance assist Distronic adaptive cruise control. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active lane change assist, and active blind-spot assist. The Pre-Safe system, which activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision, was also included. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 INFINITI QX80 received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with five stars for side crash tests, four stars for frontal crash tests, and a three-star rollover rating. Standard safety features included cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection. The ProACTIVE grade added Backup Collision Intervention and Blind Spot Intervention. While these features were common in mainstream SUVs, Infiniti made many of them standard, enhancing the QX80's safety profile.