Mercedes-Benz GLB vs Chevrolet Bolt

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 prices were $47,000 for the GLB250 and $59,300 for the AMG GLB35, with options pushing the latter to approximately $63,500 before destination fees. The GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs, but the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added style. Inside, the cabin was a blend of 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 2027 Chevrolet Bolt retained a familiar look, with slight styling changes making it resemble a conventional gas-powered car. The model continued as an EUV, offering a tall and narrow stance prioritizing utility and interior space. The RS model added gloss black trim for a subtle enhancement. Inside, the Bolt received a more dramatic makeover with a larger digital instrument panel and infotainment touchscreen. The push-button gear selector moved to the steering column, freeing up console space. Hard plastic surfaces dominated the cabin, but the RS trim offered Evotex synthetic leather with red stitching. The rear seating area was basic, with hard plastics and no armrest padding.

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 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. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and some throttle lag, but it excelled on twisty roads with excellent grip and nimble handling.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt introduced a 65-kilowatt-hour lithium-iron phosphate battery pack, reducing costs and rare earth mineral usage. A new motor delivered 210 horsepower and 169 pound-feet of torque to the front wheels, with a 0-100 km/h time in the low seven-second range. The Bolt offered immediate pedal response and one-pedal driving with adjustable brake regeneration. The ride was firm but not overly stiff, and road noise was more noticeable without an internal combustion engine. The Bolt's low centre of gravity contributed to its agility on curvy roads. It offered up to 422 kilometres of range on a full charge, with a Tesla-derived NACS charge port and increased charging speed.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a roomy interior with 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 and a panoramic glass sunroof were available. The GLB provided easy access and a tall seating position with good visibility. The rear doors opened wide, offering comfortable seating for two adults. The optional third-row seat reduced cargo space, but the GLB had a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seat folded.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt had an upright driving position with ample space for larger occupants. The rear seats offered plenty of headroom and thigh support, with a flat floor for centre-seat passengers. The Bolt's cargo capacity was 459 litres, with a large bin underneath the floor for additional storage. The rear seatbacks folded flat with the cargo floor, and there was ample storage for personal items up front, including a large bin with dividers, a floor tray, and a deep centre armrest bin.

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 methods. The system was user-friendly, with high-resolution graphics and responsive functionality.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt came with an 11-inch digital instrument panel and an 11.3-inch centre touchscreen. The infotainment system ran on a Google-based operating system, lacking Apple CarPlay and standalone Android Auto. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and wireless charging pad. The system was easy to use, with logical menus and quick responses. The Bolt's navigation system helped find charging stations and preconditioned the battery for optimal charging.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Standard 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 were unavailable.

The 2027 Chevrolet Bolt's crash test results were not available, but it was expected to achieve high scores. Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and blind-spot monitors. The optional Technology package added a surround-view camera system, digital rear-view mirror, and traffic-sign recognition. GM's Super Cruise system was available for an additional cost.