2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class debuted in 2020, slotting seamlessly into Mercedes-Benz's extensive SUV lineup. Its dimensions placed it between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC, offering a nice middle ground. The GLB measured 182.4 inches in length with a 111.4-inch wheelbase, making it visually distinguishable from its siblings primarily by its measured athletic stance and attractive design. With 7.9 inches of ground clearance, it offered a forgiving clearance for soft roads and speed humps, further enhancing its visual appeal.

Inside, the GLB was a modern marvel. Round shapes elegantly repeated across the dash, with crafted HVAC vents evoking an aerospace vibe with their polished metal details. The single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and the infotainment screen stood out, exuding elegance. The cabin’s finish reflected Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to excellence, and the beefy, perforated leather steering wheel provided a satisfying grip.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V offered a design that blended seamlessly into the crowded crossover market. The styling was similar to almost every other competitive crossover, leaving little to distinguish it in terms of exterior design. The CR-V was available in eight colors, although the vibrant choices were limited, with most options falling within the grayscale spectrum. Inside, the CR-V followed a functional approach with a focus on fitting five people comfortably along with their gear. The interior offered black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather options depending on the trim level, and climbing the trim ladder introduced wood panels and more chrome for a touch of elegance.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class was powered by a single engine option, a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine that produced 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (DCT) with wheel-mounted shift paddles. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, and the 4MATIC all-wheel drive (AWD) option was available for an extra $2,000. The GLB boasted EPA estimates of 23 mpg city/30 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for the FWD and 23 mpg city/31 mpg highway/26 mpg combined for the AWD model. The SUV's curb weight ranged from 3,638 pounds to 3,891 pounds, depending on the configuration. It offered a decent 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. Opting for the 4MATIC version, coupled with the Off-Road Engineering Package, provided better handling and agility, making it a wise choice for drivers seeking enhanced performance.

Meanwhile, the 2021 Honda CR-V came with a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine across its nine trims. The vehicle achieved a 0-60 mph time of around 7.8 seconds, making it competitive within its segment but not a standout in terms of acceleration. All CR-V trims incorporated a continuously variable transmission (CVT) that provided smooth and steady acceleration but lacked the engaging driving experience offered by traditional transmissions. Front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, with all-wheel drive (AWD) available as an extra-cost option. The CR-V's suspension system included a MacPherson strut setup in the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a decent handling and comfortable ride quality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class offered a choice between a two-row or three-row configuration, with the addition of a third row affecting the second row and cargo compartments. In its five-passenger/two-row setup, the GLB offered 27.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded. In the seven-passenger GLB, the cargo capacity was 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 24.0 cubic feet behind the second row, and 56.7 cubic feet with both rows folded. The third-row seats were suitable for children or brief trips for smaller adults due to limited legroom and headroom. The front seats boasted eight-way power adjustment and three-position memory along with heated and ventilated options, providing comfort and convenience.

On the other hand, the 2021 Honda CR-V focused on maximizing its functional space. With 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume, it outdid the Toyota RAV4 by four cubic feet. The CR-V's cargo capacity was impressive, offering 75.8 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, enough to handle a significant amount of luggage. Accessing the cargo area varied by trim level, with the higher trims featuring power tailgate options and the top-tier Touring trim providing a hands-free power tailgate. However, roof rails were standard only on the Touring trim, a feature offered more inclusively by some competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class came equipped with advanced technology, even as an entry-level model in the Mercedes lineup. Standard features included the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with voice control, a 7-inch digital instrument cluster, a 7-inch touchscreen multimedia display, and smartphone integration with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The Premium Package upgraded the displays to 10.25 inches each, integrated keyless go, and offered an optional Burmester Surround Sound System. Additional technology options included navigation with augmented reality, adaptive suspension damping, a head-up display (HUD), parking assistance, and various safety features.

In contrast, the 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX model was equipped with a modest 5-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity. However, the higher trims offered a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system improved with each trim level, culminating in the Touring trim’s 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Navigation was exclusive to the Touring trim, and from the EX trim onward, the CR-V included Sirius XM and HD radio. The EX trim and above also featured multiple charging ports, including USB and 12-volt outlets, and the Touring added a wireless phone charger.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class was loaded with safety features, showcasing Mercedes-Benz's commitment to keeping occupants safe. Standard features included active brake assist, adaptive braking technology with hill-start assist, crosswind assist, attention assist, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Optional safety options enhanced the GLB's capabilities with active LED headlamps, adaptive high-beam assist, blind-spot assist, and the comprehensive Driver Assistance Package. The package offered active distance assist, active steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, lane-keeping assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. Although the GLB had not yet been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS, its comprehensive suite of safety features indicated robust protection.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, receiving a five-star overall crash test rating from the NHTSA and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. Despite not achieving the Top Safety Pick+ rating due to variations in headlight evaluations and the updated side crash test, it scored the highest “Good” rating in the original side crash test. Honda's approach to safety technology was commendable, as it included the Honda Sensing system of advanced safety features across all trims. This suite encompassed a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps. Blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert was available from the EX trim onward.