2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan presented a conservative yet appealing design, distinguishing itself from many of its competitors. Its refreshed exterior featured a new front styling that aligned with Volkswagen's larger models, such as the Atlas and Atlas Cross Sport. The restyled grille, standard LED headlights, and redesigned aluminum wheels contributed to its sophisticated appearance. The Tiguan was available in four trim levels in Canada, all equipped with standard 4Motion AWD. The R-Line models offered a sportier look, with the Comfortline R-Line Black Edition featuring a trendy blacked-out appearance. Inside, the Tiguan Highline R-Line boasted a luxurious cabin with leather upholstery, new technology, and ambient lighting, although the hard plastic in the lower half of the cabin hinted at its mass-market status.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering a unique design that was an acquired taste. The GLB250 featured standard 4Matic AWD, while the AMG GLB35 had a more powerful drivetrain. The AMG GLB35's design included exclusive vertical grille bars and 21-inch multi-spoke wheels, lending it some style and presence. Inside, the GLB's cabin was beautifully rendered, with high-definition displays and artistic air vents. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the quality in certain areas revealed its entry-level status. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance over comfort, with a firm ride and loud road noise, making it less suitable for those seeking a traditional luxury experience.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan retained its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission transferred power to the 4Motion AWD system, which could decouple the rear axle to save fuel. Drivers could choose between Eco, Normal, Sport, and Individual driving modes, with additional Offroad settings available. The Tiguan's suspension and steering provided a nimble and responsive driving experience, although it lacked outright fun when pushed. Fuel efficiency was moderate, with an average of 9.5 L/100 km during testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered two versions of a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4-cylinder engine. The AMG GLB35 version was enhanced to produce 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, significantly outperforming the GLB250. 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, with a fuel consumption rating of 11.2 L/100 km. The AMG GLB35 prioritized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, making it a delight on twisty roads but less comfortable for daily driving.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan was a spacious compact crossover, comparable to smaller midsize SUVs. It offered an optional third row and comfortable seating with excellent visibility. The second row provided ample headroom and legroom, accommodating adults and children alike. Cargo space was generous, with up to 2,078 litres available in the two-row configuration. However, the switch to touch controls on the steering wheel and dashboard proved challenging to use.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites seeking a roomy yet small SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat for children and standard features like dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable seats. The GLB's interior was comfortable, with easy access and decent storage. The third-row seat reduced cargo space, making it less suitable for those needing a three-row SUV. The cargo area offered 560 litres, expanding to 1,755 litres with the second row folded.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan featured standard digital gauges, with the Highline R-Line offering a more sophisticated Digital Cockpit Pro system. The MIB3 infotainment system, available on most trims, included an 8-inch touchscreen, Car-Net connected services, and smartphone mirroring. The Highline R-Line added a redesigned navigation system and a nine-speaker Fender audio system. However, the natural voice recognition system was disappointing, and the Park Assist system was standard on the Highline R-Line.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. While Bluetooth was standard, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional in Canada. The Premium Package added SiriusXM, and the Navigation Package provided a navigation system. The MBUX system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant. However, the test vehicle lacked some optional upgrades like Wi-Fi and a surround-view camera.

The 2022 Volkswagen Tiguan came with standard Front Assist and Side Assist safety features. Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance, was available, although its touch-sensing controls were challenging to use. Emergency Assist was another upgrade, bringing the SUV to a stop if the driver became unresponsive. The 2021 Tiguan earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, and the 2022 model's improvements could enhance this score.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included 12 advanced safety features. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist and blind-spot monitoring. Rain-sensing wipers and an Attention Assist driver monitoring system were also standard. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable, but the optional package provided sophisticated safety features worth considering.