2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE was a vehicle that, while adequate in appearance, did not quite capture the stunning aesthetics of its sedan and sports car siblings. Its exterior design, reminiscent of a rushed assignment, featured an aggressive nose and sloping hood that promised more than it delivered past the A-pillar. Despite efforts to overcome its minivan-like tendencies with flat taillights and a contoured rear, the GLE struggled to match the pitch-perfect proportions of competitors like BMW, Audi, and Jaguar. The AMG trim added a sporty touch, but it still fell short in a direct comparison with rivals such as the BMW X5 M and Porsche Cayenne Turbo. However, the interior of the GLE was a different story, showcasing a masterpiece of quality, layout, and textures. The redesigned interior for 2021 was more streamlined and cohesive, with a red and black theme that was both bold and luxurious. The use of materials like wood, metal, leather, and suede created a tactile delight, although some controls felt flimsy. Overall, the GLE exuded a sense of pampering, but it required significant options to truly feel opulent.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the extensive Mercedes SUV lineup. It slotted between the smaller GLA and larger GLC, offering a distinct yet familiar design. The GLB's styling was attractive and athletic, with a healthy 20 centimetres of ground clearance that provided a more forgiving ride on soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern and well-crafted cabin. The repetition of round shapes across the dash, including the polished metal HVAC vents, evoked an aerospace vibe. The single panel housing the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen was elegant and attractive, while the fit and finish were of typical Mercedes-Benz excellence. The beefy steering wheel with perforated leather upholstery added to the overall appeal. The GLB's interior was a testament to Mercedes' commitment to quality and design, making it a standout in its class.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE excelled as a versatile vehicle, boasting a complex suspension and engine setup. With five suspension configurations, the GLE offered a range of options, from the reliable coil-sprung setup of the base GLE 350 to the advanced AIRMATIC system on the GLE 450, which featured self-leveling air springs and adaptive dampers. The AMG Ride Control+ added sport-tuned features, while the E-Active Body Control allowed the GLE to lean into turns like a motorcyclist. The AMG GLE 53 Coupe featured an electric supercharger for instant throttle response, although it wasn't as exhilarating as expected. The GLE's hybrid system, EQ Boost, provided additional horsepower and torque, enhancing the driving experience without significantly improving fuel efficiency. The GLE 350 delivered 255 hp, while the GLE 450 offered 362 hp, and the AMG GLE 53 reached 429 hp. The AMG GLE 63 S boasted a 4.0-litre biturbo V8 with 450 hp. All GLE models featured 4MATIC AWD, with towing capabilities up to 3,500 kilograms. The GLE's ride quality and steering were exceptional, making it a joy to drive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with a single engine choice, 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 offered a decent performance for its class. The 4MATIC AWD system provided better handling in various conditions, while the GLB's powertrain delivered a linear and predictable performance. The GLB's curb weight of 1,765 kilograms allowed for a 0-100 km/h time of 6.9 seconds, with a top speed of 210 km/h. The GLB's fuel consumption was estimated at 11.1 L/100 km in the city and 8.9 L/100 km on the highway. The GLB's suspension and AWD system ensured a comfortable and controlled ride, making it suitable for both urban and off-road adventures.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE offered a spacious interior, with most models featuring two rows of seats and an optional third row for seven-passenger seating. The second-row seats provided power controls for recline and fore-aft adjustments, while the third row was accessible via a button at the rear doors. The Coupe body style accommodated five passengers, with limited space in the middle seat. Cargo capacity was 630 litres behind the second row and 2,055 litres with all rows folded. The Coupe offered 655 litres behind the second row and 1,790 litres behind the first. The sloping roofline and narrow rear doors of the Coupe limited rear passenger space. The GLE's MBUX infotainment system improved usability, with a single touchpad and simplified interface. Seat controls and driving mode shortcuts were user-friendly, although some steering wheel controls were less intuitive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered the option of a third-row seat, affecting the second row and cargo space. The second-row seatback was divided 40:20:40, with adjustable recline angles and sliding sections. The third row was retractable, folding flat when not in use. Cargo space in the five-passenger GLB was 764 litres behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The seven-passenger GLB offered 144 litres behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second row, and 1,605 litres behind the first row. The third row was suitable for children or short trips for smaller adults. The GLB's front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row provided ample comfort for two adults, with modern amenities like door pockets, map pockets, and cupholders.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE featured a 12-inch touchscreen display with Interior Assistant, allowing for gesture control. The system included a touchpad and thumbpad for screen navigation, with search bars and larger type for ease of use. The AMG models offered a Track Pace app for virtual pit crew functions and GPS lap timing. The GLE's Seat Kinetics adjusted seating positions for comfort, while features like perfume canisters, Energizing Comfort, and heated armrests added luxury. The head-up display and instrument panel were customizable, with sharp displays and ambient lighting options. The navigation system used augmented reality for directions, and the voice assistant responded to commands. The GLE's semi-automated functionality included lane changes and curve adjustments, offering a wealth of electronic features.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, despite being an entry-level model, was equipped with advanced technology. The MBUX infotainment system featured voice control and natural language understanding, activated by the phrase "Hey, Mercedes." The GLB included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with smartphone integration and keyless start. The Premium Package upgraded the displays to 10.25 inches and added keyless go and a Burmester Surround Sound System. The Navigation Package offered augmented reality navigation and traffic-sign assist. Optional features included adaptive suspension damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, parking assistance, and a head-up display. The GLB's technology offerings were comprehensive, providing a modern and connected driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLE earned top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. It featured a range of safety and driver assistance technologies, including blind-spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and evasive steering assist. The GLE's Pre-Safe Sound played a noise to reduce hearing damage in a crash, while Pre-Safe Impulse Side inflated seat bolsters for side impact protection. The GLE's brakes and stability control systems enhanced safety, making it a secure choice for drivers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB benefited from Mercedes' reputation for safety innovation. Standard features included active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available safety options included active LED headlamps, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. The Advanced Driver Assistance Package added features like active steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB's Pre-Safe system activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision, while Pre-Safe Sound helped reduce hearing loss. The GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS.