2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Cadillac Escalade

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade made a bold statement with its imposing size and distinctive design elements. Its massive grille, LED daytime running lights, and taillights were scaled to match its grand proportions, reminiscent of classic Cadillac tailfins. The front end, with its tall hood and locomotive-like appearance, set it apart from other GM full-size SUVs. The Escalade offered different trim pieces for "sport" and "luxury" models, with the Luxury and Premium Luxury trims featuring bright exterior trim, while the Sport trim had darkened accents. Despite sharing its body-on-frame architecture with other GM SUVs and trucks, the Escalade maintained its luxury appeal, although its interior design lacked a cohesive theme, with a mix of leather, wood, and plastic materials.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's lineup, offering a more compact and functional design. The GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications provided different levels of performance, with the latter featuring a more powerful drivetrain. The GLB's design was an acquired taste, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs prioritizing function over form. The interior, however, was beautifully crafted, with high-definition displays and artistic air vents. While the controls required some acclimation, the GLB's cabin was a treat both day and night, though road noise was noticeable, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade offered two powertrain choices: a standard 6.2-litre gasoline V8 with 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, and an optional 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six diesel engine producing 277 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel-drive in Canada. The diesel engine, despite its lower horsepower, provided smooth power delivery and a lower torque peak, making it an asset for city driving. However, the Escalade's ride was unsettled, with its body-on-frame construction and 22-inch wheels contributing to a less luxurious experience compared to unibody SUVs. The Escalade's towing capacity was slightly lower than the Lincoln Navigator, and it lacked off-road capabilities found in some GM cousins.

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 pound-feet of torque. The AMG GLB35 boasted 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, significantly quicker than the GLB250. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, especially in Sport+ mode. However, the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response, and the ride was firm, particularly with the optional 21-inch wheels. The GLB250, while not as fast, offered a more comfortable daily-driving experience.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade, sharing its platform with other GM full-size SUVs, offered a cavernous cabin with the most first-row and third-row legroom among full-size luxury SUVs. The standard version measured 5,382 mm, while the extended ESV was 5,766 mm long. The Escalade excelled in cargo space, with up to 3,426 litres available with all rear seats folded. However, the raised centre console limited storage space, and the front seats, though adjustable, lacked the luxury feel expected in a high-end vehicle. Cadillac did include useful features like dedicated buttons for seat heating and ventilation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet compact SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat for children, though it reduced cargo space. The GLB featured dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and simulated leather upholstery. The interior was designed for comfort, with easy access and excellent visibility. The rear doors opened wide, revealing comfortable seating for two adults, though the optional third-row seat was less practical in North America. The GLB provided a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seat folded.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade featured a 38-inch curved OLED display, comprising three screens, including a 14.2-inch digital instrument cluster and a 16.9-inch touchscreen. It offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. The display was well-integrated into the dashboard, with functional icons and physical toggles for climate control. However, the radio station carousel format was awkward, and the rotary controller seemed like an afterthought. The Escalade's OLED screens provided excellent resolution for the 360-degree camera system, and it offered advanced features like night vision and augmented-reality navigation.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. While Bluetooth was standard, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional in Canada. The system featured natural voice recognition and a digital assistant activated by "Hey Mercedes." The GLB's MBUX technology was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, including voice, touchscreen, and steering wheel controls. The system's graphics were high-resolution, and the voice recognition worked well, though it occasionally recommended non-hospital medical facilities.

The 2022 Cadillac Escalade came with standard driver-assistance features, including cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keep assist. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. Super Cruise, a sophisticated driver-assist system, was available on most trims, offering hands-free driving on pre-mapped highways. While the system impressed with its smooth responses, safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were unavailable for this model year.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, despite its price, lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The test vehicle had standard Active Brake Assist and optional blind-spot monitoring. Rain-sensing wipers and an Attention Assist driver monitoring system were also standard. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.