2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Toyota Highlander

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was anything but boring, standing out among midsize SUVs with its distinctive design. Its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive trapezoidal grille made a statement, while the character line along the side echoed the sporty profile of the Supra. The rear taillights, reminiscent of Lexus models, added to its unique look. The Highlander XSE trim introduced a more aggressive front end, suspension tuning, and an appearance package, enhancing its sporty appeal. The Limited trim, with chrome accents and a luxurious interior, emphasized comfort and convenience, making it a top choice for families seeking a blend of practicality and upscale features.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB, positioned between the GLA and GLC, offered a blend of style and functionality. The AMG GLB35 version featured a more powerful drivetrain and exclusive design elements like vertical grille bars. Despite its boxy shape, the GLB's interior impressed with high-definition displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting. However, the controls required acclimation, and the road noise was notable, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels. While the GLB250 was more suited for daily driving, the AMG GLB35 catered to driving enthusiasts with its dynamic performance on winding roads.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander was equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered smooth and predictable operation, suitable for family driving. While not a performance powerhouse, it held its own against competitors like the Hyundai Palisade and Kia Telluride. The XSE trim added suspension enhancements for a slightly sportier feel, but the Highlander remained focused on comfort and reliability.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, with the AMG GLB35 version delivering 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The AMG GLB35 boasted an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, offering a thrilling driving experience. However, the ride was firm, and the powertrain exhibited some lag in throttle response. The GLB250, while slower, provided a more comfortable daily driving experience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander excelled in interior space and practicality. It featured shelves ahead of the front seats for storage, a wireless charging pad, and ample legroom for second-row passengers. The third row was suitable for adults with the second row moved forward. Cargo space was 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 84.3 cubic feet with both rows down.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a spacious interior with optional third-row seating for children. Standard features included dual-zone climate control and power-adjustable front seats. The GLB's cargo area provided 22 cubic feet of space, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second row folded. While the third-row seat reduced storage space, the GLB's cube-shaped cargo area was practical for urban use.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims, with a 12.3-inch option on the Limited trim. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were standard, but the navigation system struggled with points of interest. The JBL audio system offered decent sound quality, but the large screen's limited app display raised questions about its value.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB's MBUX infotainment system included a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features were Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The optional Premium and Multimedia Packages added satellite radio and augmented reality navigation. MBUX's natural voice recognition and digital assistant were user-friendly, though the navigation system had limitations.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander came with Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and intersection support. It also featured road-sign assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. The Highlander received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Standard safety features were Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. Crash-test ratings were unavailable.