2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Kia EV6

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. Its design was a testament to the brand's consistent styling, making it challenging to distinguish from its siblings without a closer look at the badge. The GLB boasted a robust and athletic appearance, partly due to its 20 centimetres of ground clearance, which was more forgiving on uneven roads compared to the lower GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB was a modern marvel, featuring a striking repetition of round shapes across the dashboard and polished metal details that evoked an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were exemplary, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and the infotainment screen, adding to its elegant appeal.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 was a sportier and more svelte electric vehicle, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. Its design was characterized by a low and wide stance, with voluptuous curves akin to a Porsche 911, and a highback tail with a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The EV6's headlights traced a V-shaped pattern, and its wedgy profile was accentuated by an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler. The interior was equally impressive, featuring dual 12-inch screens on a linear dash, a floating centre console, and seats covered in suede and leather. Ambient lighting added to the futuristic feel, and the car's aesthetic was a perfect blend of car-first, computer-second design, making it a joy to drive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a single engine choice, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 gasoline unit producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and the 4MATIC all-wheel drive was standard in Canada. 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. Built on a front-wheel-drive platform, the GLB featured a four-wheel independent suspension and 235/55R18 wheels. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, reaching a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC AWD system enhanced handling in various conditions, offering features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation.

The 2022 Kia EV6, on the other hand, was a powerhouse with its GT-Line e-AWD model featuring two electric motors delivering 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque. With a 77.4 kWh battery, the EV6 could accelerate to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds and handled corners with agility. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp. The EV6's regenerative braking system offered over eight settings, allowing for one-pedal driving in its maximum I-Pedal setting. However, the EV6's range was affected by cold weather, with a disappointing efficiency compared to Kia's estimates. Charging was efficient, with the EV6 accepting up to 240 kW, though real-world charging times varied based on available infrastructure.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered an optional third-row seat, which impacted the second row and cargo space. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with adjustable recline and sliding functions. 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 third row was best suited for children or short trips due to limited legroom and headroom. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Kia EV6 featured innovative design elements like pop-out door handles and a rotary shifter. The interior offered generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and optional heated cushions. However, the cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms, and it featured an onboard power generator for 120-volt equipment.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest MBUX infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen, smartphone integration, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package offered upgrades like a 10.25-inch display, keyless go, and a Burmester Surround Sound System. Optional navigation with augmented reality and advanced driver assistance features were also available.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was user-friendly, with connectivity options requiring a wired connection for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The instrument panel displayed live feeds of blind spots, and the 360-degree cameras provided clear visuals. The head-up display used augmented reality for navigation, and the highest trim featured a 14-speaker Meridian stereo. The EV6 also included a remote parking assist system.

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 cruise control, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package with various active safety systems. The GLB also featured Pre-Safe technology, which prepared the cabin for an imminent collision.

The 2022 Kia EV6 offered standard safety features like forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and driver attention warning. Higher trims included blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and 360 cameras. However, the EV6 had no published safety ratings from U.S. agencies.