2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Buick Enclave

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting snugly between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, distinguishing the GLB from its siblings required a closer look at the badge, as Mercedes-Benz's signature styling was evident across its SUV range. The GLB boasted an attractive, athletic stance, partly due to its 20 centimetres of ground clearance, which was more forgiving on soft roads and speed humps compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin's fit and finish were top-notch, with a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Buick Enclave, on the other hand, marked a shift from Buick's traditionally conservative styling to a more modern and upscale design. Over the years, Buick transitioned from a sedan-heavy lineup to a focus on SUVs, reflecting market trends. The Enclave, a three-row crossover, was a hit since its debut in 2008 and received a significant redesign in 2018. For 2022, the Enclave underwent a mid-cycle refresh, featuring new exterior styling elements and a restyled centre console with upgraded materials. The Avenir trim level offered unique design touches and comfort features like climate-controlled front seats and heated second-row captain's chairs. While not reaching the luxury levels of a Cadillac XT6, the Enclave's materials and design were a cut above, with the Avenir-exclusive seat pattern adding visual appeal.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 gasoline unit producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLB offered a decent performance for its 1,765-kilogram curb weight. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, standard in Canada, enhanced handling in various conditions and included features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-litre V6 engine with direct injection, delivering 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. All-wheel drive was standard in Canada, with a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. The Enclave was known for its quiet and smooth ride, enhanced by the Avenir Technology package, which included a premium ride suspension and real-time chassis damping. Despite its nearly 2,000-kilogram weight, the Enclave's powertrain was responsive, with good off-the-line acceleration. The nine-speed transmission performed seamlessly, and the engine produced pleasant sounds under wide-open throttle. While not designed for off-roading, the Enclave's AWD and 19 centimetres of ground clearance provided confidence on light trails and in wintry conditions.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which 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 from 764 litres in the two-row model to 1,605 litres with all seats folded in the three-row version. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Buick Enclave excelled in passenger comfort, with easy ingress and egress and excellent visibility. Standard features included an eight-way power driver seat and six-way power front passenger seat, both heated, with power lumbar control. The Enclave's spacious cabin accommodated six full-size adults comfortably, with ample headroom, legroom, and shoulder room. The second-row captain's chairs facilitated access to the third row, which was also roomy. The restyled centre console featured push-button transmission gears, and the Enclave offered generous cargo space, with 668 litres behind the third row and up to 2,758 litres with all seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was packed with technology, featuring the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control and keyword activation. Standard equipment included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package upgraded the displays to 10.25 inches and added features like keyless go and a Burmester Surround Sound System. Optional navigation with augmented reality, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display were also available.

The 2022 Buick Enclave offered a standard 4.2-inch driver information centre, with an 8-inch version on higher trims. The Essence trim featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, while Premium and Avenir trims added navigation. The system supported pairing up to 10 devices and included a Wi-Fi hotspot. The Premium and Avenir trims boasted a 10-speaker Bose audio system, and the Enclave came with a three-month SiriusXM 360L trial. Standard safety features included a following-distance indicator and Teen Driver technology, with available adaptive cruise control and a head-up display.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with standard safety features like active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, and crosswind assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which added active steering assist, active lane change assist, and more. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Buick Enclave made significant strides in safety, with the Buick Driver Confidence Plus package standard on all trims. This included automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, lane-change alert, and more. Premium trim added enhanced automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and a surround-view camera. The Enclave received a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA and "Good" ratings in most IIHS crash tests.