2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, positioned between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its siblings, thanks to Mercedes-Benz's consistent styling DNA. The GLB stood out with its athletic stance and 20 centimetres of ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal details, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin boasted excellent fit and finish, with a beefy steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC, on the other hand, embraced a timeless aesthetic with soft curves and rounded edges, while still exuding modern aggression through its menacing LED headlights. The GLC's long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan. Inside, the GLC's cabin was a masterpiece of automotive design, with flowing lines and a floating centre touchscreen. Mercedes-Benz's move towards larger screens and a minimalist approach was evident, setting a high standard for compact luxury SUV interiors. The GLC was available in both conventional SUV and crossover "coupe" body styles, with the latter offering a sharp look at the cost of usable space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, 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 system was standard in Canada, providing better handling in various conditions. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The GLB's powertrain delivered a linear and predictable performance, suitable for family use, while the 4MATIC system enhanced driving feel and off-road capability.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 featured a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, generating 255 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The GLC's 4MATIC all-wheel drive system was standard in Canada, offering a balance of refinement and responsiveness. The GLC's steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Dynamic Select drive modes provided performance-enhancing options, though the default Comfort mode sufficed for most driving scenarios. For those seeking more power, the AMG GLC 43 and AMG GLC 63 S offered twin-turbocharged V6 and V8 engines, respectively, delivering sports car-like performance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, affecting the second row and cargo compartments. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline angles 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 suitable for children or short trips. 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 supportive, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 provided 1,600 litres of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the GLC Coupe offered slightly less due to its fastback profile. The GLC's interior featured a decently sized centre console and deep door pockets for storage. Rear-seat space was adequate, with no need to slide the seats forward for legroom. The GLC Coupe's low roofline reduced headroom, making the conventional SUV a more practical choice for most scenarios.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control, natural language understanding, and keyword activation. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen multimedia display, with options to upgrade to 10.25-inch screens. The GLB offered smartphone integration, keyless start, and a power liftgate. Additional options included a Burmester Surround Sound System, augmented reality navigation, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC, with the Premium Package, featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch centre touchscreen and advanced voice control. The system was intuitive, offering both touch controller and touchscreen options. The steering wheel had touch-sensitive pads for customizing the digital instrument panel and navigating the infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, though switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps required navigating through menus.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with standard safety features such as active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety options included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and advanced driver assistance features like active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB also featured Pre-Safe technology, which activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered advanced safety tech through the Intelligent Drive Package, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Parking sensors and hands-free parking assist were part of the Premium Plus Package. However, the parking and proximity sensors were noted to be overly sensitive, causing distractions at intersections.