2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Genesis GV80

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 with equal front and rear overhangs. The GLB prioritized interior space over sleek aesthetics, evident in its robust roof rails and spacious cabin. The test model, painted in Mountain Gray metallic and equipped with the AMG Line design package, showcased style and attitude with 20-inch AMG wheels. Starting at $36,600, the tested GLB 250 4Matic was priced at $55,890, including numerous options like metallic paint, adaptive damping suspension, and a Burmester premium sound system. Inside, the GLB offered a luxurious experience with dual 10.25-inch screens, ambient lighting, and a blend of MB-Tex leatherette and Dinamica suede seats. The interior design combined high style with simplicity, though some metallic trim pieces revealed its more affordable nature. Overall, the GLB's interior was a delightful space, though it required some acclimation for those unfamiliar with Mercedes-Benz's unique features.

The 2021 Genesis GV80, as Genesis' first SUV, was a fresh design that balanced innovation with brand identity. It borrowed design elements from the G80 sedan, featuring a two-box design with a long hood, short front overhang, and a distinctive grille with a diamond mesh and the Genesis flying "G" badge. The SUV's design was further enhanced by the "Quad Lamp" LED headlights and taillights, creating a signature look. The GV80's exterior was marked by big wheel arches and trapezoidal tailpipes, with excellent paint and trim quality. Inside, the GV80 offered a sleek and uncluttered dashboard, emphasizing width and spaciousness. The center console featured a rotary gear selector and a 14.5-inch high-definition display. The cabin was adorned with authentic materials like real wood, metal, and leather, creating a luxurious environment. The GV80's interior was a testament to Genesis' commitment to luxury and technology, providing a sophisticated and comfortable experience.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB was available in GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic configurations, 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 quicker due to its wide torque band and eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The GLB's front-wheel-drive setup could be upgraded to 4Matic AWD, which optimized grip and performance. The optional adaptive damping suspension and 20-inch AMG wheels provided a soft ride in Comfort mode, while Sport mode enhanced road feel and responsiveness. Despite its modest engine, the GLB offered an enjoyable driving experience, though its brakes faded prematurely during spirited driving. The test vehicle achieved 21.4 mpg, below the EPA's 26-mpg estimate.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 offered two engine choices: a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder with 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, and a twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 with 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. The V6 models came with standard AWD, while the four-cylinder models had RWD with optional AWD. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GV80 featured independent multi-link suspension and, on 3.5T models, an electronically-controlled suspension with road preview. The 2.5T engine was sufficient for most driving situations, while the 3.5T offered smoother and stronger performance. The GV80's fuel economy varied by configuration, with the 2.5T achieving up to 23 mpg combined and the 3.5T AWD rated at 20 mpg combined.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered impressive interior space, even surpassing the larger GLC in some respects. It could accommodate an optional third row, a feature not available in other Mercedes SUVs except the GLS. The GLB comfortably seated four adults, with ample headroom, tall seating positions, and large windows. The second-row seat could slide to adjust space for third-row passengers or cargo. The test vehicle's front seats offered power adjustment but lacked heating and ventilation. The GLB's cargo space measured 22 cubic feet behind the second row, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured a sophisticated interior with a focus on technology and design. The center console housed a rotary gear selector and a multimedia controller with dual control capability. The HVAC control panel used capacitive touch buttons with intelligent masking to prevent accidental misuse. The GV80's second row was comfortable for two adults, with power seats and window shades available. A third row was standard on 3.5T AWD Advanced+ models, increasing passenger capacity to seven. The third-row seats had a power-fold function and were split 50/50.

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 a navigation system with augmented video, while the Parking Assistance Package offered a surround-view camera and semi-autonomous parking assistance. The 12-speaker Burmester premium sound system was a highlight, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 featured the sixth-generation Genesis UX, utilizing a 14.5-inch HD screen with split-screen displays. It supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with cloud connectivity for over-the-air updates. Android users could use a digital key function, while Genesis Connected Services provided various remote and safety features. A head-up display and a 12.3-inch 3D digital instrument cluster were available on higher trims. The Lexicon Quantum Logic Surround audio system with 21 speakers was the pinnacle of the GV80's audio offerings.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB came with standard safety features like a driver monitoring system, backup camera, forward collision warning, 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 crash-tested by NHTSA or IIHS at the time of publication.

The 2021 Genesis GV80 was equipped with 10 airbags, including a front-center airbag, and a suite of safety features like blind-spot collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and forward collision-avoidance assist. It also had adaptive cruise control with machine learning and highway-driving assist. The GV80 had not been rated by NHTSA or IIHS, but Genesis aimed for top safety ratings.