Mercedes-Benz GLB vs Cadillac LYRIQ

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering both the 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 somewhat polarizing, with its steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs prioritizing function over form. The AMG GLB35, however, gained some style points with its 21-inch multi-spoke wheels and a beautifully crafted interior featuring high-definition displays and ambient lighting. Despite its luxurious touches, the GLB's controls required acclimation, and the road noise was notably loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, on the other hand, was a visual standout with its striking exterior design. It featured a long hood and low ground clearance, reminiscent of a long sedan, and incorporated unique styling elements like vertical light bars and a solid grille with lighting effects. The interior was meticulously detailed, with leather-wrapped seats, polished controls, and a sweeping 33-inch OLED display. However, the floating centre console offered limited functionality, and some physical components seemed poorly assembled. Despite these issues, the LYRIQ provided generous headroom and legroom, though its cargo space was smaller than expected for a midsize SUV.

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, significantly more than the GLB250. It featured an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. The AMG GLB35 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 High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension enhanced its performance, though the ride was firm and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, while not as sporty as its exterior suggested, excelled on the highway with its calm and poised ride. It offered an optional dual-motor powertrain producing 500 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, with a standard single rear motor setup delivering 340 hp and 325 lb-ft. The LYRIQ's 102-kWh battery pack provided a range of up to 505 km with RWD and 494 km with AWD, though real-world testing showed closer to 420 km. The LYRIQ's handling was hindered by its weight, resulting in significant understeer and uninspiring steering feel. Regenerative braking was effective, but the overall chassis needed improvement.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites seeking a roomy yet compact SUV. It offered an optional third-row seat for children, dual-zone automatic climate control, and an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat. The interior featured simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an available panoramic glass sunroof. The GLB's cargo area provided 560 litres of space, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seats folded. However, the optional third-row seat reduced storage space and was less practical for North American buyers.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ, despite its midsize dimensions, offered generous headroom and legroom but sacrificed cargo space for a spacious back seat. The cargo hold measured 793 litres behind the seats and 1,722 litres when folded. However, the LYRIQ's functionality was compromised by poorly assembled components and limited storage solutions. The glovebox was difficult to access while driving, and the floating console left valuables exposed.

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 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ boasted a 33-inch OLED screen with three sections, offering touch-enabled controls and a large, legible instrument cluster. The infotainment system ran native Google Maps and Google Assistant, with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard. The available Super Cruise system provided excellent hands-free driving capabilities, and the 19-speaker AKG stereo delivered impressive sound quality.

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 and blind-spot monitoring, but the GLB had not been crash-tested by major safety organizations.

The 2024 Cadillac LYRIQ came standard with forward automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Cadillac's Safety Alert Seat. Optional features included adaptive cruise control and a 360-degree camera system. However, the LYRIQ received a poor rating for its headlights from the IIHS and had not been crash-tested by the NHTSA.