2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Nissan Rogue

The 2021 Nissan Rogue underwent a complete redesign, giving it a more muscular and imposing presence. Its squared-off nose featured a deeper interpretation of Nissan’s V-Motion grille design, flanked by narrow, angled LED headlamps and separate LED daytime running lights. Functional forward air vents and active grille shutters contributed to a lower coefficient of drag, despite the SUV's boxier proportions. The exterior colour palette was simplified to a few basic colours, with additional two-tone options available on the Platinum grade. Inside, seating surfaces varied from cloth to semi-aniline quilted Nappa leather, depending on the trim level, with the Platinum model offering the most luxurious interior.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering a choice between the GLB250 and the AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 featured standard 4Matic all-wheel drive in Canada, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain. The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window, but the AMG GLB35's 21-inch multi-spoke wheels added some style. Inside, the GLB's cabin was beautifully rendered, featuring high-definition instrumentation and infotainment displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue was powered by a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 181 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, available at 3,600 rpm. This engine was a newer direct-injected version, improving performance and fuel efficiency. The Rogue's curb weight ranged from 1,536 kg for the FWD S grade to 1,653 kg for the AWD Platinum model. Despite the continuously variable transmission (CVT), the Rogue's performance was standard across the lineup, with no alternate powertrain options. Fuel efficiency was reasonable, with the FWD configuration rated at 8.9 L/100 km in the city and 7.0 on the highway, while AWD increased these figures slightly. The Rogue's handling was significantly improved, with better torsional rigidity, lower weight, and updated suspension and stability control systems.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The AMG GLB35 also included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, with a fuel consumption rating of 11.2 L/100 km combined. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with an AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension. However, the ride was firm, and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response. The GLB250 was better suited for daily driving, while the AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue offered functional updates across all price points, including a quieter cabin and a new shift-by-wire system. The second-row doors opened to 85 degrees, improving access, and headroom was increased. Standard features included heated front seats, steering wheel, and exterior mirrors, with upgrades available in higher trims. The Platinum grade included a redesigned Divide and Hide cargo system, offering 1,028 litres of cargo space with the second row seats upright and 2,064 litres with them folded. The system allowed for a 5 cm cargo floor height adjustment and a panel to separate cargo.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for comfort and cargo, with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard equipment included dual-zone automatic climate control and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The GLB offered decent storage, though a small tray on the dashboard was missed. The rear doors opened wide, providing comfortable seating for two adults, with an optional third-row seat reducing storage space. A power rear liftgate revealed a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seat folded.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The SV grade added an in-car Wi-Fi hotspot and additional USB ports, while the Platinum grade offered a 9-inch screen, wireless phone charging, and a Bose 10-speaker audio system. However, the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster had readability issues due to low contrast.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Bluetooth was standard, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional in Canada. The Premium Package added SiriusXM satellite radio, and the Navigation Package included a navigation system. MBUX could be controlled via voice recognition, touchscreen, physical controls, and steering wheel controls. The system was user-friendly, with high-resolution graphics and a digital assistant that responded well to prompts.

The 2021 Nissan Rogue came standard with the Safety Shield 360 suite, including forward emergency braking, blind-spot warning, and lane departure warning. The SV model introduced ProPILOT Assist, a hands-on highway driving assist feature. The Rogue received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a four-star safety rating from the NHTSA, with improvements made to later models.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Standard features included Active Brake Assist and blind-spot monitoring. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.