2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, introduced in 2020, was a fresh addition to the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup, fitting between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC. Despite its unique dimensions, the GLB shared a familial resemblance with its lineup mates, making it difficult to distinguish without checking the badge. The GLB boasted an attractive, athletic stance, partly due to its 7.9 inches of ground clearance, which was more forgiving on soft roads and speed humps compared to the lower-slung GLA and GLC. Inside, the GLB impressed with its modern design, featuring round shapes across the dash, polished metal HVAC vents, and a single panel housing both the virtual instrument cluster and infotainment screen. The cabin's fit and finish were of Mercedes-Benz's high standards, and the beefy steering wheel with perforated leather grips added to the driving experience.

The 2021 Lexus NX retained its familiar design, echoing the styling of the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models featured sharp design lines and standard power-folding mirrors with 17-inch wheels. The F Sport variant added sporty elements like a honeycomb grille, triple-beam LED headlights, and 18-inch F Sport wheels. Inside, the NX F Sport offered quilted NuLuxe sport seats with optional Circuit Red interior, while the overall material fit and finish were excellent, as expected from Lexus. The gauge cluster, though functional, appeared dated compared to newer models, and the center stack's design was somewhat unconventional. Despite these quirks, the NX provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, with a focus on luxury and refinement.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline four-cylinder engine, producing 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, offering a 0-60 mph time of 6.9 seconds and a top speed of 130 mph. The GLB's fuel economy was rated at 23 mpg city and 30 mpg highway for the FWD model, and 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway for the AWD version. The optional 4MATIC AWD system enhanced handling and driving feel, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those venturing off paved roads. The GLB's Off-Road Engineering Package further supported off-road capabilities with features like hill-start assist and downhill speed regulation.

The 2021 Lexus NX, powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivered 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Its six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in around seven seconds, with a top speed of 124 mph. Fuel economy for the FWD model was 22 mpg city and 28 mpg highway, while the AWD version achieved similar figures. The NX's AWD system allowed up to 50% of torque to be transferred to the rear axle, though it lacked individual-wheel torque vectoring. The NX offered a smooth and comfortable ride, with three drive modes—Eco, Normal, and Sport—affecting throttle response and steering assist.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a choice between two-row and three-row configurations. The second row featured a 40:20:40 split seatback and a 40:60 split seat bottom, with adjustable recline and sliding capabilities. In the three-row version, the second row had an "Easy-Entry" function for easier access to the third row, which was best suited for children or short trips. Cargo space varied depending on the configuration, with the two-row model offering 27.0 cubic feet behind the second row and 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded. The three-row model provided 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 GLB's front seats were comfortable and highly adjustable, with available heated and ventilated options.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for adults in both the front and second-row seats. The rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding design, though cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The NX's cabin was quiet, with minimal road and wind noise, though engine noise could be noticeable. The SUV offered a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and available power-folding rear seats, enhancing convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB came equipped with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring voice control and natural language understanding. Standard technology included 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 and added features like keyless go and a Burmester Surround Sound System. The optional Multimedia Package included navigation with augmented reality and traffic-sign assist. Additional advanced options included adaptive damping, ambient interior lighting, wireless device charging, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, with a 10.3-inch display available in the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus interface was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist and two additional speakers. The NX was compatible with the Lexus Enform Remote app, offering remote access to various vehicle functions. A Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system was available on higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a range of standard safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive braking technology, crosswind assist, and attention assist. Available features included active LED headlamps, blind-spot assist, and the Driver Assistance Package, which added advanced systems like active distance assist, active steering assist, and Pre-Safe Plus with Pre-Safe Sound. The GLB had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS at the time of review.

The 2021 Lexus NX came standard with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which included lane-departure warning, lane-keep assist, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were also standard. Optional safety features included park assist and a surround-view camera system. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA. Lexus provided a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty and a six-year/70,000-mile powertrain warranty.