Toyota RAV4 vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in 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 short overhangs, though the AMG GLB35's 21-inch wheels added some style. Inside, the GLB featured high-definition displays and ambient lighting, but the controls required acclimation. Quality was evident, but road noise was pronounced, especially with the larger wheels.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 offered four trim levels in Canada, ranging from the RAV4 LE to the RAV4 Limited, with an off-road-friendly trim in the middle. The design remained consistent with the 2019 model, particularly in the Trail trim, which featured a more aggressive grille and blacked-out wheels. The Trail trim also added orange interior accents and a frameless rearview mirror, though the interior was otherwise basic. The RAV4 provided fabric upholstery and heated front seats in the LE and XLE trims, with synthetic leather in the XLE Premium package. The Limited trim offered heated and ventilated power-adjustable seats with memory settings. The RAV4's interior was practical, with convenient storage options and a rugged gear shifter, though it lacked the premium feel of some competitors.

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 lb-ft of torque, significantly more than 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, 1.7 seconds faster than the GLB250. Fuel consumption for the AMG GLB35 was rated at 11.2 L/100 km, compared to 9.5 L/100 km for the GLB250. The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance, with a firm ride and responsive handling, especially in Sport+ mode. However, it was less comfortable for daily driving, with throttle lag and a firm ride.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with AWD and a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, the RAV4's performance was adequate but not exciting. The Trail trim featured 19-inch wheels and the same suspension as other RAV4s, providing a comfortable ride but lacking the sporty feel of the AMG GLB35. The RAV4's engine was noisier than some competitors, but it offered a reliable and practical driving experience.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a spacious interior with an optional third-row seat for children. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, with simulated leather upholstery. Heated front seats and a panoramic sunroof were available. The GLB provided easy access and comfortable seating for four adults, with a cube-shaped 560-litre cargo area expandable to 1,755 litres with the second row folded. However, the optional third-row seat reduced cargo space.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 seated five, with 958 mm of front headroom and 1,001 mm in the rear. Legroom measured 1,039 mm in the front and 960 mm in the back, with a narrower back seat than some competitors. The RAV4 offered practical storage options, including a shelf above the glove compartment and large door pockets. Cargo space was 1,059 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,977 litres with the seats folded, placing it in the middle of its class.

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 offered natural voice recognition and multiple control methods, though some features required additional packages.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 introduced a new infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, upgraded to 10.5 inches in the Limited trim. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were standard, along with voice command and connected services. The Limited trim also featured an 11-speaker JBL audio system and a 12.3-inch driver-information display, while the Trail trim had a 7-inch display and a wireless charging pad.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist and blind-spot monitoring, but crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2023 Toyota RAV4 came standard with lane-departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The TSS 2.5 suite included Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control. The RAV4 earned a 2023 Top Safety Pick+ award from the IIHS, with top scores in crash-testing.