2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid

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 GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs prioritizing function over form. The AMG GLB35, however, gained some style with 21-inch multi-spoke wheels and a beautifully crafted interior featuring high-definition displays and ambient lighting. Despite its luxurious appearance, the GLB's controls required acclimation, and the road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid, redesigned for the model year, was tested in Santa Barbara, California. The RX 350h and RX 500h F Sport Performance hybrid versions were the focus, with the RX 450h+ plug-in hybrid arriving later. The RX 350h Luxury test vehicle, with its Iridium silver finish and 21-inch alloy wheels, looked identical to the standard RX 350, lacking any hybrid-specific badges. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, however, stood out with its Copper paint, blacked-out grille, and aggressive styling. The RX's design remained blunt-nosed, with a wheelbase stretch reducing rear overhang, making it appear smaller despite its size. Inside, the RX adopted a minimalistic approach with improved infotainment and contemporary textures, while the RX 350h Luxury featured luxurious Macadamia leather and Ash Bamboo trim.

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. This was a significant increase over the GLB250's engine. 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 in combined driving. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, especially in Sport+ mode. However, it could be finicky in urban settings, with some throttle lag and uneven brake feel.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid offered a more efficient powertrain with the RX 350h, producing 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque from a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine. It was expected to average 6.5 L/100 km in combined driving. The RX 500h F Sport Performance, with a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivered 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, accelerating to 100 km/h in about 6 seconds. It featured an adaptive damping suspension, Dynamic Rear Steering, and Active Sound Control for a more engaging drive. However, the RX 500h's fuel economy fell short of expectations, averaging 11.3 L/100 km. The RX 350h, on the other hand, achieved 7.4 L/100 km, offering a quieter and more efficient driving experience.

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. The GLB provided easy access, comfortable seating, and decent storage, with a 560-litre cargo area expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seat folded. However, the optional third-row seat reduced storage space and was less practical in North America.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid excelled in comfort, with the RX 350h Luxury offering ten-way power-adjustable front seats, premium leather, and three-zone automatic climate control. The RX 500h F Sport Performance featured eight-way power-adjustable seats with larger bolsters and standard-grade leather. The hybrids' battery packs were housed under the rear seat, providing excellent leg support but tight rear headroom. The RX offered 838 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expandable to 1,308 litres, a significant improvement over the previous model.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. While Bluetooth was standard, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional in Canada. The system offered natural voice recognition and a digital assistant, though some features required additional packages. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with multiple interaction methods, but lacked some advanced features like a head-up display.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid introduced a new infotainment system, requiring subscription plans for full functionality. The Lexus Interface offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, cloud-based navigation, and an Intelligent Assistant. While the system worked well, it had limitations, such as single-screen menu viewing and screen reflections. The available head-up display included dual-function touch-sensing control pads, which could be distracting, especially with polarized sunglasses.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, rain-sensing wipers, and an Attention Assist driver monitoring system. However, crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.

The 2023 Lexus RX Hybrid came with Lexus Safety System+ 3.0, featuring motorcycle detection, evasive steering assistance, intersection turn assistance, and curve-speed reduction. Proactive Driving Assist was also available, enhancing safety and efficiency. While some features worked well, others, like the front cross-traffic alert and curve-speed reduction, had limitations. The RX also offered Traffic Jam Assist and Advanced Park, though these were not tested.