Jeep Grand Wagoneer vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer presented a classic SUV aesthetic, sharing its frame and body shell with the standard Wagoneer. This resulted in a traditional design featuring a tall hood, broad shoulders, and trapezoidal wheel arches. The Grand Wagoneer distinguished itself with a standard black roof and unique hood, front fascia, and grille. The grille leaned forward slightly, with laser-etched knurling in the slots, and the wheel centre caps were protected by acrylic glass. The vehicle's body-on-frame architecture allowed for independent suspension, and the use of aluminum and composite materials helped reduce weight. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer offered a luxurious experience with high-quality materials, 24-way power front seats, and Nappa leather upholstery, setting it apart from the standard Wagoneer.

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 variants provided different levels of performance, with the latter featuring a more powerful drivetrain. The GLB's design was practical, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window, prioritizing function over form. The interior was a highlight, with high-definition displays and artistic air vents that glowed with ambient lighting. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the road noise was notable, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels. Despite these quirks, the GLB's cabin was a treat, offering a blend of style and technology.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer was powered by a robust 6.4-litre Hemi V8 engine, delivering 471 horsepower and 455 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, allowed the Grand Wagoneer to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in approximately six seconds. The vehicle featured standard four-wheel drive with the Quadra-Drive II system, offering five drive modes and a height-adjustable Quadra-Lift air suspension system. With a maximum ground clearance of 25.4 cm, the Grand Wagoneer was capable of tackling various terrains, although its size limited its off-road prowess. The ride was comfortable at lower speeds, but the vehicle felt ungainly at higher speeds due to its weight and imprecise steering.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered two engine options, with the AMG GLB35 boasting a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4-cylinder engine producing 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. This version accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, thanks to its AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with features like Dynamic Cornering Assist and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension. However, the ride was firm, and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response. The GLB250, while less powerful, offered a more comfortable daily-driving experience. Enthusiasts would appreciate the AMG GLB35's performance on twisty roads, but it required a tolerance for its firm and loud nature.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer offered seating for seven with standard second-row captain’s chairs or eight with an optional third-row bench seat. It provided more third-row headroom and second-row legroom than competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. Cargo space was generous, with 775 litres available with all seats in place and 2,007 litres with the third row stowed. The Grand Wagoneer also boasted a maximum towing capacity of 4,472 kg. Standard features included a sunroof, four-zone automatic climate control, and a 360-degree camera system, although forward visibility was somewhat limited.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a compact yet roomy SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat suitable for children, although it reduced cargo space. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and simulated leather upholstery. The GLB provided a comfortable seating arrangement, with easy ingress and egress and decent storage. The cargo area offered 560 litres of space, expanding to 1,755 litres with the second-row seat folded. A power rear liftgate was standard, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer featured a comprehensive infotainment system with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, dual touchscreens, and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto. The McIntosh audio system and a 4G-LTE Wi-Fi hotspot were also standard. Second-row passengers enjoyed a 10.25-inch touchscreen, and an optional rear-seat entertainment system added two 10.1-inch screens. The Uconnect 5 system, with its Android-based operating system, offered over-the-air updates, although the screen response was occasionally slow.

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 was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant activated by "Hey Mercedes." The GLB's technology was accessible, with multiple interaction methods, although some features like Wi-Fi service and a head-up display were optional.

The 2022 Jeep Grand Wagoneer came equipped with a range of standard safety features, including a 360-degree camera system, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Optional features included intersection collision assist, driver-attention monitor, night vision, and traffic-sign recognition. The Active Lane Management System combined adaptive cruise control with automated lane centring, although a hands-free version was planned for future release. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of review.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, despite its price, lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included 12 advanced safety features. The test vehicle did not have evasive steering assist, lane-departure warning, or lane-keeping assist. However, it did include 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 were unavailable.