2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 INFINITI QX80

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. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, the GLB was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC's dimensions. Despite these differences, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its siblings, showcasing the signature Mercedes-Benz styling. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a 20-centimetre ground clearance, making it more versatile for soft roads and urban obstacles. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash and polished metal details in the HVAC vents, evoking 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.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80, sharing its platform with the Nissan Armada, was a large SUV that balanced size and style. Its front-end styling was distinct, thanks to the prominent Infiniti grille, while LED lighting and tasteful chrome accents added an upscale touch. The QX80's 22-inch dark chrome alloy wheels further enhanced its exterior appeal. Inside, the QX80 offered a spacious cabin with unique, upscale materials, including quilted semi-aniline Saddle Brown leather seats and tasteful wood trim. However, the design was beginning to show its age compared to newer competitors. Despite this, the QX80's cabin remained a comfortable and attractive space, though it fell short of the high expectations set by the premium full-size SUV market.

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 GLB offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. Its 4MATIC all-wheel drive system provided better handling in various conditions, while the four-wheel independent suspension ensured a smooth ride. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a robust 400-horsepower, 5.6-litre V8 engine with 413 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed automatic transmission, offered smooth and linear power delivery. The QX80's four-wheel drive system, based on the Nissan Patrol, provided excellent off-road capability, with a computer-controlled transfer case and 23 centimetres of ground clearance. The QX80's towing capacity was an impressive 3,855 kilograms, and its Hydraulic Body Motion Control system helped manage body lean during cornering.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between two- and three-row seating configurations. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with adjustable recline and sliding functions. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 1,755 litres available in the two-row model. The third row was best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom and headroom. The front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 required a climb to enter, thanks to its tall ride height and body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin offered a spacious feel, with good head- and legroom in the front seats. The QX80 could accommodate up to eight passengers with a second-row bench seat or seven with captain's chairs. The third row was cramped for adults, and the power-folding seats were slow to operate. Cargo space was limited compared to competitors, with a maximum of 2,694 litres available.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium Package offered larger displays, a Burmester Surround Sound System, and keyless go. Optional features included navigation with augmented reality, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 featured a 12.3-inch Infiniti InTouch infotainment system with Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. A Bose 17-speaker sound system was standard, along with a wireless smartphone charger. The dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system was included, though HDMI adapters were missing. The QX80 lacked Infiniti's ProPilot Assist due to its older architecture, limiting its advanced driver-assistance capabilities.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with standard safety features such as active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, and crosswind assist. Optional safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which added active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 INFINITI QX80 offered standard safety features like forward automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and forward-collision warning. Additional features included driver attention alert and adaptive cruise control. The QX80 received a three-star rating for rollover resistance from NHTSA, while the 2021 model received four stars for overall crash protection.