2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh 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 was slightly larger than the GLA but just shy of the GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a strong family resemblance with its siblings, thanks to Mercedes-Benz's consistent styling DNA. Its athletic stance was enhanced by a 20-centimetre ground clearance, making it more versatile for soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB boasted a modern and striking design, with round shapes and polished metal details creating an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were top-notch, with features like a virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen housed in a single elegant panel.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX 460 retained its decade-old body shell, with updates like the spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights introduced in previous years. The GX's styling was coherent despite its age, with a tough and aggressive look that appealed to SUV enthusiasts. However, the interior did not match the standards of a modern luxury SUV, with wood trim that felt like plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. The semi-aniline leather was a redeeming feature, but overall, the interior felt dated. The GX's upright dashboard and high centre console limited legroom, and the steering wheel's odd angle added to the bus-like driving experience. Despite these drawbacks, the GX offered excellent outward visibility, thanks to its boxy profile and low side glass.

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 was standard in Canada, providing better handling in various conditions. With a curb weight of 1,765 kilograms, the GLB managed 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 predictable, making it suitable for family use. The 4MATIC system offered features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation, enhancing its off-road capabilities.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 featured a 4.6-litre V8 engine generating 301 horsepower and 329 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Despite the V8's power, the GX's 2,349-kilogram weight affected its performance, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction resulted in a less refined ride, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, with a Torsen centre differential, low-range 4WD, and features like Crawl Control and Multi-Terrain Select. The GX offered 20.5 centimetres of ground clearance and respectable approach, departure, and break-over angles, making it a strong contender for off-road enthusiasts.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, which significantly 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 capabilities. In the seven-passenger configuration, the third row was retractable, folding flat when not in use. Cargo space varied depending on the seating configuration, with up to 1,755 litres available in the two-row model. The front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row was spacious for two adults, but the third row was best suited for children or short trips.

The 2021 Lexus GX's interior reflected its age, with limited legroom due to the upright dashboard and high centre console. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position added to the bus-like feel. Despite these drawbacks, the GX offered excellent outward visibility, aided by its boxy profile and low side glass. The centre-console storage and cupholders were small, but the analog controls for climate and seat heaters were user-friendly. The GX came standard with three rows, but the third row was best reserved for children due to limited space. Cargo capacity was limited with the third row in use, but folding the second and third rows provided 1,833 litres of space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was well-equipped with technology, featuring the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control and natural language understanding. Standard features included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Premium Package offered larger 10.25-inch displays, a Burmester Surround Sound System, and keyless go. Optional features included navigation with augmented reality, adaptive suspension damping, and a head-up display, among others.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system had outdated graphics and limited functionality. However, the GX included analog controls for most functions, providing a straightforward interface. A 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system was standard, but the overall tech offering was minimal compared to modern luxury SUVs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a suite of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety options included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and a range of advanced driver assistance features. The GLB also featured the Pre-Safe system, which activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision. However, the GLB had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 Lexus GX 460 included the Lexus Safety System+ as standard, offering features like a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. However, the GX lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus and Toyota models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist. The GX had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.