2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a strong family resemblance with its siblings, characterized by the brand's signature styling. It boasted an athletic stance, partly due to its 20-centimetre ground clearance, which was more forgiving on uneven roads compared to the lower GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash and polished metal details in the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were of the high standard expected from Mercedes-Benz, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel.

The 2021 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, was a nod to Buick's past glory while catering to modern SUV preferences. As the largest of Buick's SUV offerings, the Enclave stood out with its impressive size and upscale styling, especially in the Avenir trim, which featured a unique grille, extra brightwork, and polished 20-inch wheels. Inside, the Enclave Avenir continued the premium theme with organic forms, minimalist instrumentation, and polished accents. The leather seats were soft, perforated, and embroidered, though the wood accents were not genuine. The Enclave's simplicity was marred only by its electronic transmission shifter, which required a brief learning curve. Overall, the Enclave offered a comfortable and quiet ride, thanks to Buick's QuietTuning efforts and laminated glass.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GLB's 4MATIC all-wheel drive was standard in Canada, providing better handling in various conditions. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB managed a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. Its fuel consumption was rated at 11.1 L/100 km in the city and 8.9 L/100 km on the highway. The GLB's suspension system, with MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear, ensured a smooth ride, while the 4MATIC system offered features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation.

In contrast, the 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine generating 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive was standard on the Essence trim in Canada, while all-wheel drive was available on higher trims. The Enclave's V6 engine provided strong acceleration, and its nine-speed automatic transmission delivered smooth shifts. The Enclave's towing capacity was rated at 2,268 kilograms when properly equipped. Fuel efficiency was rated at 11.2 L/100 km combined, with the AWD version consuming slightly more. The Enclave's suspension, especially with the Avenir Technology Package, offered a premium-tuned experience with continuously variable damping, ensuring a comfortable ride across various terrains.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which significantly impacted the second-row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline and a 40:60 split seat bottom that could slide six inches. In three-row models, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 1,755 litres available in the two-row model. The GLB's front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options, while the second row comfortably accommodated two adults.

The 2021 Buick Enclave, being one of the largest SUVs in its class, offered ample space for up to seven passengers. The Avenir trim featured a 12-way power-adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and massage function, while the front passenger enjoyed a 10-way adjustable seat with similar features. The Enclave's interior was designed for comfort, with heated and ventilated leather seats and a power tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel. The second row consisted of captain's chairs, and the third row offered decent space for passengers. Cargo space was generous, with 668 litres behind the third row and up to 2,764 litres with the second and third rows folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with options to upgrade to 10.25-inch screens. The GLB offered smartphone integration, a power liftgate, and keyless start, with additional options like a Burmester Surround Sound System, augmented reality navigation, and adaptive suspension damping. Advanced features included a head-up display, parking assistance, and 64-colour ambient lighting.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response times and a user-friendly interface. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. However, the Enclave's 8-inch touchscreen and 10-speaker Bose sound system were less impressive compared to competitors. The Enclave offered upgrades like a premium sound system, navigation, and a surround-view camera. A unique feature was the rear camera mirror, providing a live video feed of the rear view.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a suite of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Optional safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and a comprehensive Advanced Driver Assistance Package with features like active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB also featured the Pre-Safe system, which prepared the cabin for an imminent collision, and the new Pre-Safe Sound, which helped reduce hearing loss in a crash. The GLB had not yet been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's safety features were more limited, with some advanced systems only available on higher trims. Standard features in Canada included blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, added features like forward-collision warning, lane-departure warning, and automatic emergency braking. The Enclave lacked some advanced driver assistance technologies found in competitors. However, it received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and high marks from IIHS, though its headlight performance was rated as Marginal.