2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2022 Subaru Forester

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. With a length of 4.63 metres and a wheelbase of 2.83 metres, it offered a distinct size, though its design closely mirrored its siblings, making it hard to distinguish without checking the badge. The GLB's athletic stance was enhanced by its 20 centimetres of ground clearance, offering a more forgiving ride over 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, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the luxurious feel.

The 2022 Subaru Forester, available in multiple trims including the rugged Wilderness, was known for its practicality and utility. Despite its homely exterior, the Forester excelled in functionality, with a suspension lift and higher ride height providing 22.9 centimetres of ground clearance. The Wilderness trim featured massive protective cladding and a matte-black hood decal, giving it a unique, albeit polarizing, appearance. Inside, the Forester prioritized function over form, with a combination of hard plastic and soft surfaces creating a cabin that felt well-constructed, if somewhat dated. The 8-inch Starlink infotainment system was user-friendly, though the presence of three display screens was less than ideal. Overall, the Forester was well-made, with the Wilderness trim offering improved off-road capabilities, though its styling and engine power left something to be desired.

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 decent performance for its 1,765-kilogram curb weight. It accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system provided better handling in various conditions, with features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation enhancing its off-road capabilities. Fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 8.9 on the highway.

The 2022 Subaru Forester continued with its 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. While lacking a turbocharger, the Forester's engine was adequate for most driving conditions, though it felt sluggish at higher altitudes. The continuously variable transmission (CVT) with all-wheel drive offered a smooth driving experience, with the Wilderness model boasting a 25% increase in initial torque supply. This allowed the Forester Wilderness to double its towing capacity to 1,360 kilograms. Fuel consumption was rated at 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres combined, with the Forester averaging 9.1 L/100 km during testing. The dual-function X-Mode system and re-tuned suspension improved off-road performance, making the Forester Wilderness a compelling choice for adventure seekers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a 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 seven-passenger model, the third row was retractable, providing 144 litres of cargo space behind it. The five-passenger model offered 764 litres behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row was spacious for two adults, though cramped for three.

The 2022 Subaru Forester emphasized functionality, with easy entry and exit due to tall seating hip points. The Wilderness trim featured water-resistant StarTex upholstery and all-weather floor mats, making it ideal for outdoor adventures. The upgraded roof rails accommodated a dynamic load of 100 kilograms and a static load of 362 kilograms, supporting a three-person roof tent. The Forester offered 818 litres of cargo space without the sunroof and 762 litres with it, expanding to 2,101 litres with the rear seats folded. The cabin was comfortable, with ample storage options and a full-size spare tire in the Wilderness trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and keyword activation. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen display, smartphone integration, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package upgraded the displays to 10.25 inches and added a Burmester Surround Sound System. Optional features included navigation with augmented reality, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display.

The 2022 Subaru Forester came with a 6.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen with available navigation and a Harman Kardon sound system. The Wilderness trim included a 180-degree forward-view camera for off-roading. The infotainment system was user-friendly, though the voice recognition system was inconsistent.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured standard safety technologies like active brake assist, adaptive braking, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added active steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, and more. Pre-Safe and Pre-Safe Sound systems enhanced safety by preparing the cabin for imminent collisions.

The 2022 Subaru Forester introduced the EyeSight 4.0 safety system, offering improved accuracy and smoother operation. Standard features included automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-centring assist. The Forester also offered a rear-seat reminder system, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. Limited and Premier trims featured DriverFocus, a facial recognition technology for monitoring drowsiness and distraction. The Forester earned a 5-star overall crash-test rating from the NHTSA.