2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB was characterized by its boxy and tall design, setting it apart from other small Mercedes SUVs. It was built 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, creating a symmetrical appearance. The design prioritized function over form, maximizing interior space within its compact dimensions. The test model, painted in Mountain Gray metallic and equipped with the AMG Line design package, added a stylish flair with 20-inch AMG wheels. The interior was a blend of high style and simplicity, featuring dual 10.25-inch screens and ambient lighting, though some metallic trim pieces revealed its more affordable status within the Mercedes lineup.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB continued the brand's tradition of attractive, taut SUVs with an athletic stance. It shared the Mercedes-Benz DNA, making it visually similar to its lineup-mates. The GLB offered a healthy 7.9 inches of ground clearance, providing a more forgiving ride on soft roads and speed humps. Inside, the GLB was a modern stunner with a focus on round shapes across the dash and polished metal details in the HVAC vents, evoking an aerospace vibe. The single panel housing the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen was elegant, and the cabin maintained Mercedes-Benz's high standards of fit and finish. The beefy steering wheel with perforated leather grips added to the overall appeal.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB was available in GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic specifications, both powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The SUV accelerated to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, though it felt faster due to the engine's wide torque band and the snappy eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The 4Matic AWD system enhanced grip and performance, with an Off-Road driving mode for maximum traction. The test vehicle, equipped with an adaptive damping suspension and 20-inch AMG wheels, delivered a soft ride in Comfort mode and a more dynamic experience in Sport mode. Despite its modest engine specifications, the GLB offered a remarkable driving experience, though the brakes faded prematurely during spirited driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB retained the same turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed DCT. Front-wheel drive was standard, with 4MATIC AWD available for an additional $2,000. The GLB's curb weight ranged from 3,638 to 3,891 pounds, and it achieved a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds. The AWD version provided better handling and agility, making it a wise choice for drivers seeking improved performance. The Off-Road Engineering Package, standard with 4MATIC, included features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation, enhancing the GLB's off-road capabilities.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered generous interior dimensions, often exceeding those of the larger GLC. It could accommodate four adults comfortably, with ample headroom, tall seating positions, and large windows for excellent visibility. The second-row seat was adjustable, allowing for extra space for third-row passengers or cargo. The optional third-row seat, though not present in the test vehicle, added versatility. Cargo space measured 22 cubic feet behind the second row and expanded to 62 cubic feet with the seats folded, thanks to the traditional SUV roofline.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB provided a choice between a two-row or three-row configuration. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback with adjustable recline angles and a 40:60 split seat bottom that could slide six inches. The third row, available as an option, was retractable and suitable for children or short trips for smaller adults. Cargo space varied depending on the configuration, with 27.0 cubic feet behind the second row in the two-row model and 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row in the three-row model. The front seats were highly adjustable and supportive, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring natural voice recognition and standard Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The Premium Package, priced at $2,200, upgraded the screens to twin 10.25-inch displays with lush graphics and fast response. The Multimedia Package added navigation with augmented video, providing a live video feed with turn-by-turn directions. The Parking Assistance Package included a surround-view camera system and semi-autonomous parking assistance. The Burmester premium sound system was a standout feature, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB also featured the MBUX infotainment system with voice control and keyword activation. Standard equipment included a 7-inch digital instrument cluster and touchscreen multimedia display, with smartphone integration and a power liftgate. The Premium Package upgraded the screens to 10.25 inches and added keyless go. The Multimedia Package offered navigation with augmented reality, enhancing the driving experience. Additional options included adaptive damping, ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a head-up display, providing a comprehensive suite of advanced technology.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with standard safety features such as a driver monitoring system, backup camera, forward collision warning with pedestrian detection, and automatic emergency braking. The optional Driver Assistance Package added advanced systems like adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and evasive steering assistance. The GLB had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of publication.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB included standard safety features like active brake assist, crosswind assist, and attention assist. The Driver Assistance Package offered additional features such as adaptive cruise control, active steering assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. Like the 2020 model, the 2021 GLB had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS.