2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE

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. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, it was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared the signature Mercedes-Benz styling, making it difficult to distinguish from its siblings without a closer look. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a 20-centimetre ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over uneven surfaces. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal details, and a seamless panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin boasted excellent fit and finish, with a beefy, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the tactile experience.

In contrast, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe, particularly the AMG GLE 53 variant, presented a more aggressive and sporty aesthetic. Its Selenite Gray paint, 22-inch forged aluminum wheels, and polished brightwork gave it a sneaker-like appearance from certain angles. The GLE Coupe's interior was luxurious, with high-end materials and a high-tech dual-screen setup. The Nappa leather, Dinamica suede headliner, and brushed aluminum trim added to the upscale feel. However, the interior complexity required some acclimatization, as traditional controls were minimal. Despite this, the GLE Coupe offered a comfortable and engaging driving experience, with ambient lighting enhancing the cabin's atmosphere at night.

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 and standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive in Canada, the GLB offered a balanced performance. It achieved a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and had an electronically limited top speed of 210 km/h. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway. Built on a front-wheel-drive platform, the GLB featured a four-wheel independent suspension, providing a smooth ride. The 4MATIC AWD system enhanced handling in various conditions, with features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 Coupe, on the other hand, boasted a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-6 engine with 429 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque. The EQ Boost mild-hybrid system added extra power when needed and improved fuel efficiency, with a combined consumption of 12.7 L/100 km. The GLE Coupe featured a SpeedShift nine-speed automatic transmission and an AMG Performance 4Matic+ AWD system with variable torque distribution. The AMG Dynamic Select system offered multiple driving modes, and the adaptive damping control air suspension ensured a comfortable ride. The GLE Coupe excelled in urban environments with its speed-sensitive steering and tight turning radius. On challenging roads, the AMG performance bits shone, providing a thrilling driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered flexibility with an optional third-row seat, affecting 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 capabilities. In the five-passenger configuration, the GLB provided 764 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The seven-passenger version offered 144 litres behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second, and 1,605 litres behind the first. The third row was best suited for children or short trips. The front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe accommodated up to five passengers, though four was more comfortable. The front seats offered numerous adjustments, heating, ventilation, and massage functions, ensuring comfort on long drives. The back seat provided ample legroom, and the cargo hold offered 655 litres of space, expanding to 1,790 litres with the second row folded. The GLE Coupe included luxury features like heated armrests, rapid-heating front seats, and an Air Balance fragrance system, enhancing the overall experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium Package upgraded the screens to 10.25 inches and added a Burmester Surround Sound System. The Navigation Package offered augmented reality navigation and traffic-sign assist. Additional options included adaptive suspension damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe also featured the MBUX infotainment system, with dual 12.3-inch screens under a single glass panel. Standard features included navigation, satellite radio, and smartphone integration. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition technology. Optional features included wireless charging, a Burmester 3D surround-sound system, and an augmented video feature for navigation. The MBUX Interior Assistant with gesture recognition was available, though its value was questionable.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with standard safety features like active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active lane change assist, and active brake assist with cross-traffic function. Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Sound were also included, enhancing safety in the event of a collision. The GLB had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLE Coupe came with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. The Pre Safe Sound system protected hearing during a collision. The Intelligent Drive Package added 13 driver assistance and collision avoidance systems. The Active Lane Change Assist and Active Emergency Stop Assist were particularly impressive. The lane-keeping assistance technology was finely tuned, operating transparently until needed. The GLE Coupe had not been crash-tested, but the standard GLE received top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.