2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was intended to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity ensured its survival. The GLS appealed to affluent families seeking a comfortable, three-row alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. Its design was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that gave it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric nature. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and style.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a compact SUV that filled the gap between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its distinct measurements, the GLB shared the Mercedes-Benz styling DNA, making it visually cohesive with its lineup-mates. It featured an athletic stance, aided by a generous 20 centimetres of ground clearance, making it suitable for soft roads and urban environments. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, highlighted by round shapes and polished metal details. The cabin was well-crafted, with a single panel housing the digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The GLB's interior was characterized by excellent fit and finish, with a comfortable, perforated leather steering wheel adding to the driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This model could accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS featured an adaptive air suspension system, allowing for adjustable ground clearance and precise handling. Multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, allowed drivers to tailor the driving experience to their preferences.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4 engine, producing 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 GLB's 4MATIC all-wheel drive system provided enhanced handling in various conditions, while the four-wheel independent suspension ensured a smooth ride. The GLB's powertrain delivered linear and predictable performance, making it a suitable choice for families. For those seeking more power, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 offered a quicker 0-100 km/h time of 5.2 seconds.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided ample interior space with three rows of seating. The first and second rows offered generous headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS had a cargo capacity of 355 litres behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a centre console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between two- and three-row configurations. The five-passenger model provided 764 litres of cargo space behind the second row and 1,755 litres with the second row folded. The seven-passenger model had 144 litres of space behind the third row, 679 litres behind the second row, and 1,605 litres with both rows folded. The third row was best suited for children or short trips. The GLB's front seats were highly adjustable and comfortable, with available heated and ventilated options. The second row offered good comfort for two adults, with adjustable seatbacks and sliding functionality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system offered voice control, activated by saying "Hey Mercedes," and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for control.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB also came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. The standard setup included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen display, with options to upgrade to 10.25 inches. The GLB offered smartphone integration, keyless start, and a power liftgate. The Premium Package added features like a Burmester Surround Sound System and augmented reality navigation.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, automatic high beams, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS was equipped with front-and-side-impact airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured standard safety technology such as active brake assist, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and the Advanced Driver Assistance Package, which added active steering assist and active lane-keeping assist. The GLB also offered Pre-Safe technology, which activated safety measures in the event of an imminent collision.