2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Mazda CX-5

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. In Canada, the GLB250 came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. The model introduced a new Night Package with black grille louvers and badges, and a Rose Gold paint option for the AMG GLB35. Starting at $47,000 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $59,300, with options pushing the price to approximately $63,500. The GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window, but the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added style. Inside, the cabin was a visual treat with high-definition displays and ambient lighting, though the controls required acclimation. Quality was evident, but road noise was pronounced, especially with the larger wheels.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 featured subtle exterior updates, including new LED headlights and taillights, revised bumpers, and a redesigned grille. The Signature trim received body-colour lower exterior trim, enhancing Mazda's premium brand aspirations. Inside, the CX-5 retained its luxurious feel with Nappa leather, real wood trim, and polished metallic accents. New seats improved comfort, and the driving position was sportier. Prices ranged from $30,500 to $43,650, with the turbocharged engine available on higher trims. Our test vehicle, equivalent to the Sport Design grade, included the turbo engine and additional options, totalling $46,175. The CX-5's interior was snug but comfortable, with heated and ventilated seats and a heated steering wheel. The control layout was initially frustrating, but the infotainment system lacked a touchscreen and natural voice recognition, relying on console controls. Cargo space was adequate, with 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered two engine options, both turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4-cylinders. The AMG GLB35 was tuned to deliver 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the GLB250 by 81 hp and 37 lb-ft. The AMG GLB35 featured 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, 1.7 seconds faster than the GLB250. Fuel consumption was rated at 11.2 L/100 km for the AMG GLB35, compared to 9.5 L/100 km for the GLB250. The AMG GLB35's performance-oriented features included an AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension. While the AMG GLB35 excelled on twisty roads, it was firm and loud in everyday driving, with some throttle lag and brake grab.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5's base engine was a Skyactiv-G 2.5-litre four-cylinder, producing 187 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. All CX-5s came with standard AWD, and the revised six-speed automatic transmission improved responsiveness. Fuel consumption was 9.3 L/100 km, or 9.0 L/100 km with cylinder deactivation. The turbocharged engine, available on higher trims, offered 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium gas, or 227 hp and 310 lb-ft on regular gas. It also featured the revised transmission and AWD, with a fuel consumption rating of 9.8 L/100 km. The new Mi-Drive drive mode selector offered Normal, Sport, and Off-Road settings. The 2022 CX-5's improved driving dynamics included increased structural rigidity and reworked suspension tuning, resulting in a quieter, smoother ride with reduced body roll and enhanced grip.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet compact SUV, offering an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, and simulated leather upholstery. Heated front seats were standard, with a heated steering wheel and panoramic sunroof available. The GLB's interior was accessible, with decent storage but lacking a dashboard tray. The rear seats accommodated two adults comfortably, though the optional third-row seat reduced cargo space. The power rear liftgate revealed a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 addressed previous complaints about its ride and front seats with new furnishings. The seats offered improved comfort and support, with a sportier driving position. Most trims included a height-adjustable front passenger seat, dual-zone climate control, and heated and ventilated front seats. The back seat remained snug but featured heated outboard cushions and air vents. The control layout was challenging, with no touchscreen or natural voice recognition, but the centre console controls became intuitive over time. Storage was limited, with a small centre armrest bin and wireless charging tray. Cargo space was 871 litres behind the rear seats and 1,680 litres with them folded, competitive with entry-level luxury SUVs.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system, with 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, and the Navigation Package included a navigation system. MBUX offered natural voice recognition and a digital assistant, with multiple control options. The system was user-friendly, though it occasionally misinterpreted requests.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 retained its Mazda Connect infotainment system with a 10.25-inch display and Bluetooth. The display was not touch-sensitive, and the system lacked natural voice recognition, relying on console and steering wheel controls. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, with a two-year trial of Mazda Connected Services. Higher trims featured a 10-speaker Bose sound system and SiriusXM. The system required acclimation, but the lack of a touchscreen and advanced voice recognition was a drawback.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included 12 advanced safety features. Standard safety equipment included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, rain-sensing wipers, and Attention Assist. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2022 Mazda CX-5 offered a comprehensive i-Activsense package, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Higher trims added adaptive headlights, a surround-view camera, parking sensors, automatic rear braking, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-5 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS.