2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Porsche Macan

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the brand's extensive 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, making it difficult to distinguish without checking the badge. Its design featured a sporty stance, aided by a generous 20 centimetres of ground clearance, which was more forgiving on uneven roads compared to its siblings. Inside, the GLB impressed with a modern and stylish cabin, highlighted by round design elements and a sleek panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The interior boasted Mercedes-Benz's renowned fit and finish, with a comfortable, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the premium feel.

The 2022 Porsche Macan, although nearly indistinguishable from its original 2015 model, received a styling refresh, larger standard wheels, and a new centre console with haptic touch controls. The Macan S test vehicle, adorned in Volcano Gray with 21-inch RS Spyder Design wheels, exuded a sporty and athletic look, emphasizing its performance-oriented nature. Inside, the Macan drew inspiration from other Porsche models, featuring a left-side ignition switch, a large central tachometer, and a flat dashboard. The cabin, with its red leather and metallic accents, offered a luxurious and sporty ambiance. However, the thin steering wheel and touch-sensitive controls on the centre console were less user-friendly, requiring attention away from the road.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 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, enhancing 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. While not the fastest, the power delivery was smooth and sufficient for family use. The 4MATIC system also offered features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation, making it suitable for light off-road adventures.

The 2022 Porsche Macan offered a range of engine options, with the Macan S featuring a twin-turbo 2.9-litre V6 delivering 375 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. This engine, paired with a seven-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic transmission, enabled the Macan S to accelerate to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds with the optional Sport Chrono Package. The Macan's fully variable all-wheel-drive system prioritized rear-wheel power distribution, enhancing its sporty driving dynamics. The Macan S also benefited from larger 20-inch wheels, Porsche Active Suspension Management, and optional performance upgrades like Porsche Torque Vectoring Plus and Porsche Surface Coated Brakes. The Macan S excelled in delivering a thrilling driving experience, with precise handling and impressive grip on challenging roads.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, impacting the second-row and cargo space. The second-row seats featured adjustable recline angles and sliding sections, while the third row was suitable for children or short trips. Cargo capacity varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 1,755 litres available in the two-row model. The GLB's front seats provided excellent comfort and adjustability, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row was comfortable for two adults, though a third passenger would find it cramped.

The 2022 Porsche Macan, despite its sporty nature, provided comfort for the driver and front passenger with optional 14-way power-adjustable seats. However, the rear seats were cramped, especially for taller passengers. The Macan's new steering wheel, inspired by the 911, felt thin and uncomfortable over long drives. The redesigned centre console with haptic touch controls looked modern but required attention away from the road. Cargo space measured 488 litres behind the rear seats, expandable to 1,503 litres with the seats folded, accommodating four full-size suitcases.

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. Smartphone integration, keyless start, and a power liftgate were standard, while additional features like a Burmester Surround Sound System, augmented reality navigation, and adaptive suspension damping were available.

The 2022 Porsche Macan featured a 10.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system, known as Porsche Communication Management (PCM). It included wireless Apple CarPlay, SiriusXM, navigation, and connected services. The system's user experience was intuitive, though voice recognition was less reliable compared to competitors. The Macan offered stereo volume and climate controls separate from the touchscreen, reducing the need for interaction while driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with standard safety features like active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, and crosswind assist. Optional safety packages added features such as adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB also included Pre-Safe technology, which activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision. However, it had not been rated by major safety organizations.

The 2022 Porsche Macan included standard lane-departure warning and a reversing camera. Optional safety features included blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision warning. The Macan's parking assistance features, such as a surround-view camera and Park Assist, were notable, but it lacked more advanced driving assistance technologies. Like the GLB, the Macan had not been rated by major safety organizations.