2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Buick Enclave

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB had a boxy and tall design compared to other small Mercedes SUVs. It sat on a front-wheel-drive platform with an optional 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The vehicle featured a long, flat hood, an upright windshield, large side windows, and a nearly vertical rear liftgate. The front and rear overhangs were symmetrical, emphasizing its functional design over aesthetics. The GLB prioritized interior volume, highlighted by robust standard roof rails.

Painted in Mountain Gray metallic and equipped with the AMG Line design package and 20-inch AMG wheels, the test vehicle exuded style and attitude. Prices started at $36,600, with the tested GLB 250 4Matic priced at $55,890. The interior featured dual 10.25-inch screens, ambient lighting, and a mix of MB-Tex leatherette and Dinamica suede seats. The design blended high style with simplicity, though some metallic trim pieces revealed its more affordable status within the Mercedes lineup.

The 2021 Buick Enclave represented a return to Buick's roots with its large, shiny, and impressive design. It was the largest of Buick's four SUVs, with pricing ranging from just over $41,000 to just under $55,000. Competing with higher-priced three-row SUVs, the Enclave's Avenir trim added extra presence with a unique grille, brightwork, and 20-inch wheels.

Inside, the Enclave Avenir featured organic forms, a minimalist approach to controls, and polished accents. The seats were soft, perforated, and embroidered leather, though the wood trim was not genuine. The interior was simple, except for the electronic transmission shifter, which required a brief learning curve. The Enclave's ride and handling were praised for their comfort and versatility across various driving environments.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB came in GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic specifications, both powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower at 5,500 rpm and 258 lb-ft of torque between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm. Mercedes claimed a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds, though it felt faster due to the engine's wide torque band and the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The DCT powered the front wheels, with an optional 4Matic AWD system available.

The GLB's adaptive damping suspension and 20-inch AMG wheels provided a soft ride in Comfort mode and a more responsive experience in Sport mode. Despite its modest engine specifications, the GLB offered a fun driving experience, though the brakes faded prematurely during enthusiastic driving. The test vehicle achieved 21.4 mpg, falling short of the EPA's 26-mpg estimate.

The 2021 Buick Enclave featured a 3.6-liter V6 engine with 310 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 266 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 rpm. The nine-speed automatic transmission and choice of FWD or AWD contributed to strong acceleration and a smooth driving experience. The Enclave's maximum tow rating was 5,000 pounds when properly equipped.

The Avenir Technology Package added a premium-tuned suspension with continuously variable damping and automatic emergency braking. The suspension provided a comfortable ride across various driving conditions, and the steering and brake response were well-balanced. The Enclave achieved 21.2 mpg on the testing loop, close to the EPA's 21-mpg estimate, with a potential range of up to 460 miles on a full tank.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB offered generous interior dimensions, with optional third-row seating. It comfortably accommodated four adults, with ample headroom, tall seating positions, and large windows. The second-row seat slid forward and back, providing flexibility for passengers or cargo. The front seats offered power adjustment but lacked heating and ventilation in the test vehicle. Cargo space measured 22 cubic feet behind the second row and 62 cubic feet with the seats folded down.

The Buick Enclave was one of the largest SUVs in its class, offering roomy seating for six or seven people. The Avenir trim featured 12-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support and massage, heated and ventilated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The center console provided ample storage, and the second-row captain’s chairs and third-row bench seat offered comfort and easy access. Cargo space measured 23.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 58 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 97.6 cubic feet with the second row folded.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB's Premium Package, priced at $2,200, upgraded the standard 7-inch screens to twin 10.25-inch displays with lush graphics and fast response. The MBUX infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and natural voice recognition. The Multimedia Package added navigation with augmented video, and the Parking Assistance Package offered a surround-view camera and semi-autonomous parking assistance. The 12-speaker Burmester premium sound system was a highlight.

The 2021 Buick Enclave's infotainment system met basic expectations with quick response, voice recognition, and a simple user interface. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM 360L, connected services, and USB ports in all three rows. Upgrades included a premium sound system, navigation, wireless charging, and a surround-view camera. However, the 8-inch touchscreen, lack of smart home integration, and 10-speaker Bose system fell short compared to competitors. The rear camera mirror was a useful feature.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB came standard with several safety features, including a driver monitoring system, backup camera, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, and Pre-Safe front collision preparation. Optional features included second-row side-impact airbags, blind-spot monitoring, and the Driver Assistance Package, which added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, evasive steering assistance, and more. Crash-test ratings were not available at the time of publication.

The Buick Enclave's safety features were limited to higher trim levels. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were available on the Essence trim and above. The Driver Confidence Plus Package, standard on Premium and Avenir trims, included forward-collision warning, low-speed automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and more. Adaptive cruise control was available only on the Avenir with the Technology Package. The Enclave received a five-star overall rating from NHTSA and high marks from IIHS, though its headlight performance was rated Marginal.