2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

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. Despite its unique dimensions, distinguishing the GLB from its siblings required a closer look at the badge, as Mercedes-Benz's signature styling was evident across the range. The GLB boasted an attractive, athletic stance, partly due to its 20 centimetres of ground clearance, which was more forgiving on soft roads and speed humps compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash and polished metal details in the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The cabin's fit and finish were top-notch, with a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen, and a beefy steering wheel wrapped in perforated leather.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, with its distinctive design, required an acclimation period for some. Its blunt and bulbous nose, black windshield pillars, and swollen haunches gave it a unique appearance, though it could appear tame over time. The Highlander Hybrid was available in LE, XLE, Limited, or Platinum trims, with Canadian pricing ranging from $45,950 to $56,450, plus a destination charge. The Platinum trim, evaluated in this review, featured electronic all-wheel drive, a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and a surround-view camera system. While the Highlander Hybrid offered quality, some details, like the instrument-panel shroud, felt cheap. The interior featured an upscale two-tone look with leather upholstery, though the mix of illumination and graphics at night could appear busy.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 gasoline engine, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, the GLB offered a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 210 km/h. The 4MATIC all-wheel drive system, standard in Canada, enhanced handling in various conditions, while the four-wheel independent suspension ensured a smooth ride. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 L/100 km in the city, 8.9 on the highway, and 10.1 combined.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid, following its redesign, featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with a total output of 243 horsepower. The hybrid system, using an "E-CVT," improved fuel efficiency, with a combined rating of 6.7 L/100 km. While the Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, it lacked driving excitement. The powertrain felt strained during hard acceleration or hill climbs, and the steering was lifeless. The regenerative brakes, however, operated smoothly, and the SUV's ride was comfortable on flat terrain. The Highlander Hybrid's curb weight of 2,075 kilograms contributed to unwanted body movement, though it handled well on smooth roads.

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 functions. In the seven-passenger GLB, the third row folded flat when not in use. Cargo space varied, with 764 litres behind the second row in the two-row model and 144 litres behind the third row in the three-row version. The front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid Platinum provided roomy accommodations for the driver and front passenger, with 10-way power seat adjustment for the driver. The second-row bench seat increased seating capacity to eight but felt narrow for three adults. The third-row seat was uncomfortable, with limited legroom and headroom. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,370 litres with it folded, and a maximum of 2,387 litres. Storage was plentiful, though some areas felt smaller than in previous models.

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 the Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and augmented reality navigation.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid offered Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio as standard. The Platinum trim featured a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, an 11-speaker JBL audio system, and a navigation system. The infotainment system was user-friendly, with large knobs and shortcut buttons. The JBL sound system, however, had mixed audio quality. Additional features included Driver Easy Speak and a video rearview mirror.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist as standard. Available safety features included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which added features like active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, with automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control, and lane departure with steering assist. New for 2021 were intersection support and emergency steering assistance. The Highlander received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, though it earned four stars in frontal-impact crash tests.