2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

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 the 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 was a modern marvel, with a striking repetition of round shapes across the dash and polished metal details evoking an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were exemplary, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while adhering to the classic minivan design ethos, offered a sense of style with its kinked sliding doors and dramatic hockey-stick character lines. The Touring trim level featured dark grey 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels, adding a touch of sophistication. Inside, the Odyssey was designed with families in mind, offering quality leather upholstery, supportive front seats with power adjustment, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system. The interior was spacious, with numerous storage options and the innovative Magic Slide second-row seats, which allowed for flexible seating arrangements. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, and the cargo space was impressive, with 929 litres behind the third row and up to 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLB offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system provided better handling in various weather conditions and improved driving feel on dry roads. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 8.9 on the highway, and 10.1 combined. The SUV's four-wheel independent suspension and 235/55R18 wheels ensured a smooth ride, while the 4MATIC system offered features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation for off-road adventures.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. The front-wheel-drive minivan used a 10-speed automatic transmission with pushbutton controls. While lacking all-wheel drive or an electrified powertrain, the Odyssey's fuel consumption was estimated at 10.6 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The Odyssey was enjoyable to drive, with quick acceleration and responsive handling. However, repeated use of the brakes on downhill grades led to pedal vibration and an audible grumble, indicating a need for more heat-resistant brakes. Despite this, the Odyssey remained a delightful vehicle, offering a smooth ride and remarkable composure on various road types.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which affected the second row and cargo compartments. 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 easy access to the third row, which was retractable when not needed. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with 764 litres behind the second row in the five-passenger model and 1,605 litres behind the first row in the seven-passenger model. The front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options, while the second row offered ample comfort for two adults.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey provided easy access with wide-opening doors and a lower seating position. The interior featured quality leather, supportive front seats with power adjustment, and a tri-zone automatic climate control system. Storage options were abundant, with shelving in the front door panels and a handy floor tray. The second-row seats offered commendable comfort and flexibility, with the Magic Slide feature allowing for various seating arrangements. The third-row seat was comfortable for adults, with good leg support and foot room. Cargo space was generous, with 929 litres behind the third row and up to 3,984 litres with the second-row seats removed, providing ample room for family trips and adventures.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest 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 inches. Smartphone integration, keyless start, and a power liftgate were standard, while the Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and augmented reality navigation. Advanced options included adaptive suspension damping, 64-colour interior ambient lighting, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey Touring trim offered an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment display, satellite radio, Bluetooth, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. The Touring trim also included CabinWatch and CabinTalk technology, a rear entertainment system with a 10.2-inch display, and an 11-speaker premium audio system. However, the Odyssey's infotainment system was considered outdated compared to rivals, with a small touchscreen and a lack of a tuning knob. The embedded navigation system required specific voice commands and was less intuitive than smartphone-based navigation.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured standard safety technology, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, and active distance assist Distronic adaptive cruise control. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active lane change assist, and active blind-spot assist. Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Sound were also included, offering additional protection in the event of a collision. The GLB had not yet been rated for safety by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey came standard with Honda Sensing, which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included automatic high-beam headlights and a rear-seat reminder system. However, Honda Sensing lacked refinement, with some features responding too sharply or abruptly. The Odyssey earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS.