Porsche Cayenne vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering both the GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. In Canada, the GLB250 came standard with 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. The model introduced a new Night Package with black grille louvers and badges, and a Rose Gold paint option for the AMG GLB35. Starting at $47,000 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $59,300, with options pushing the price to approximately $63,500 before destination fees. The GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle and nearly vertical rear window, but the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added some style. Inside, the cabin was a visual treat with high-definition displays and ambient lighting, though the controls required acclimation. Quality was evident, but road noise was pronounced, especially with the larger wheels.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered a choice between a standard SUV and a sporty Cayenne Coupe, with trim levels ranging from the base Cayenne to the Turbo E-Hybrid. The GTS trim featured high gloss black trim, a unique front fascia, and tinted headlights, with red brake calipers visible through 21-inch wheels. The Cayenne Coupe included an adaptive rear spoiler. Inside, customization was extensive, from colours to trim and seat belts. Pricing could escalate with options like custom paint jobs. The cabin layout was well-organized, with mechanical controls for essential features and a dashboard-mounted shifter toggle for added storage space. The centre console's tendency to slide was a minor drawback in an otherwise well-thought-out interior.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-4-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. This was a significant increase over the GLB250's engine. The AMG GLB35 included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 5.2 seconds, with a fuel consumption rating of 11.2 L/100 km. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard. The AMG GLB35 prioritized performance, with a firm ride and some throttle lag, but it excelled on twisty roads with excellent grip and nimble handling.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered various engines, with the base 3.0-litre V6 producing 348 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque. The Cayenne S featured a V8 with 468 hp, while the Turbo GT offered 650 hp. Plug-in hybrid options reached up to 729 hp. The GTS trim had a twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 with 493 hp and 486 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed transmission and AWD. It accelerated to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds, with a top speed of 275 km/h. The GTS balanced sporty performance with comfort, featuring precise steering and an active suspension. Carbon ceramic brakes provided strong stopping power. The Cayenne GTS offered a sporty driving experience without sacrificing daily comfort.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB catered to urbanites needing a roomy yet compact SUV, with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat. The interior offered simulated leather upholstery, heated front seats, and an optional panoramic sunroof. The GLB's design facilitated easy entry and exit, with comfortable seating for two adults in the rear. A third-row seat was optional but reduced cargo space. The power rear liftgate revealed a 560-litre cargo area, expandable to 1,755 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered limited standard features, with eight-way power-adjustable seats and two-zone climate control. Higher trims added features like a GT Sport steering wheel and Race-Tex headliner. The options list was extensive, allowing for customization of interior materials and features. The Cayenne accommodated five people, with a comfortable second row. It could tow up to 3,500 kilograms and had a payload capacity of over 635 kilograms. Cargo space was slightly smaller than competitors, with 772 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,708 litres with seats folded. The coupe version offered less space, and plug-in hybrids further reduced utility.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Bluetooth was standard, but Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were optional in Canada. The Premium Package added SiriusXM, and the Navigation Package included a navigation system. MBUX could be controlled via voice recognition, touchscreen, centre console controls, and steering wheel controls. The system was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant responding to prompts.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne boasted a 12.6-inch digital gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with the Porsche Communication Management system. It included wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Spotify, Apple Music, satellite radio, and a Wi-Fi hotspot. An optional 10.9-inch passenger screen allowed for navigation and media control. The system was intuitive, with quick response to taps and voice control options. A head-up display provided information to the driver, though it appeared dim with polarized sunglasses. The Cayenne featured four USB-C charging ports and a cooled wireless charging area.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The test vehicle did not have evasive steering assist, lane-departure warning, or lane-keeping assist. Standard features included Active Brake Assist and blind-spot monitoring. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2025 Porsche Cayenne offered standard parking sensors, forward collision warning, and blind-spot monitoring. Adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and lane-departure warning were optional. The advanced InnoDrive system was not tested. The Cayenne had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.