2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Honda Passport

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a stylish 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 lineup mates, characterized by its athletic stance and 20 centimetres of ground clearance, which was more forgiving for soft roads and speed humps. 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 boasted excellent fit and finish, with a beefy steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

The 2022 Honda Passport, with its new styling, closely resembled the Honda Ridgeline pickup truck, sharing a platform with the Odyssey minivan and Pilot SUV. The Passport's updated design aimed for a tougher look, especially in the TrailSport trim, which added off-road appeal with 20.5 centimetres of ground clearance and traction management driving modes. Inside, the Passport offered one of the largest interiors in the two-row midsize SUV segment, with quality materials and thoughtful design. The TrailSport trim added unique touches like orange contrast stitching and amber ambient lighting, enhancing the overall cabin experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured 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. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Honda Passport retained its 3.5-litre V6 engine, delivering 280 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. The Passport's V6 was smooth and powerful, with a combined fuel consumption rating of 11.3 litres per 100 kilometres. The i-VTM4 AWD system provided mechanical torque vectoring, enhancing performance on twisty roads. However, the Passport's brakes showed some limitations during mountain descents, and its towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered an optional third-row seat, affecting the second row and cargo space. The five-passenger GLB provided 764 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. In the seven-passenger version, cargo space was reduced to 144 litres behind the third row. The GLB's front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row was comfortable for two adults, with modern amenities like door pockets and cupholders.

The 2022 Honda Passport featured large doors and a low step-in height, making entry and exit easy. The front seats were large and comfortable, with standard leather upholstery and heated options. The TrailSport trim added heated rear seats, while the Touring trim offered ventilated front seats. The Passport's interior was spacious, with ample storage options and a generous cargo area measuring 1,430 litres behind the rear seat and 2,854 litres with the back seat folded. The Passport's utility and comfort made it a practical choice for daily use.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and keyword activation. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with options to upgrade to 10.25 inches. The GLB offered smartphone integration, a power liftgate, and optional features like a Burmester Surround Sound System, augmented reality navigation, and adaptive suspension damping.

The 2022 Honda Passport's infotainment system included an 8-inch touchscreen display, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The TrailSport trim added satellite radio, while the Touring trim featured a navigation system and a 10-speaker premium audio system. The Passport's system was functional but lacked advanced features, with wireless smartphone charging available in all but the base trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with standard safety features like active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, and crosswind assist. Available safety options included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which added features like active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Honda Passport included the Honda Sensing suite, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. Additional features included blind-spot monitoring and a rear-seat reminder system. While effective, some driver-assist functions were less refined, leading to a preference for manual control. The Passport received five-star ratings from NHTSA, except for a four-star rating in front passenger protection and rollover resistance. IIHS gave it top ratings, with an Acceptable rating for front-passenger protection in a small overlap collision.