2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 featured a rugged-looking exterior reminiscent of a traditional SUV, with boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and a scowling front end. This aggressive styling set it apart from previous RAV4 generations and most other compact crossovers. Despite its bold exterior, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, shared with other Toyota models like the Camry and Sienna. This platform provided a solid foundation but didn't elevate the RAV4 beyond its ordinary mechanical roots.

Inside, the RAV4 offered rugged styling touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, which distinguished its cabin from other Toyota models. Material quality was decent on lower trims but didn't improve significantly with higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model featured SofTex upholstery, which Toyota claimed was lighter and more durable than leather, but real leather wasn't available even on the top-tier Limited trim.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB slotted between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, available in GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 offered front-wheel drive (FWD) or 4Matic all-wheel drive (AWD), while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain and sophisticated AWD system. The AMG GLB35 featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, paired with an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The GLB's design was functional, with a steep windshield angle, nearly vertical rear window, and short overhangs. The AMG GLB35's 21-inch multi-spoke wheels added some style and presence. Inside, the GLB's cabin was beautifully rendered with high-definition instrumentation and infotainment displays, artistic air vents, and ambient lighting. However, the controls required some acclimation, and the road noise was loud, especially with the optional 21-inch wheels. The GLB's quality was evident, but it was clear that it was an entry-level Mercedes.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered standard front-wheel drive (FWD) and optional all-wheel drive (AWD). The engine achieved 40% thermal efficiency, a level typically found in racing engines, and loved to rev, with power peaking at 6,600 rpm. However, the transmission struggled to keep up, and the steering lacked feel, making for a less dynamic driving experience.

The RAV4's off-road capabilities were enhanced in the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models, which featured a torque-vectoring rear axle, 8.6 inches of ground clearance, and a 3,500-pound towing capacity. The TRD Off-Road model also had model-specific suspension tuning and Falken Wildpeak A/T Trail all-terrain tires. Despite these features, the RAV4's off-road performance was limited by its lack of suspension articulation and shallow approach, departure, and breakover angles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered two versions with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The AMG GLB35 version produced 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, paired with an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD. The AMG GLB35 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, with an EPA fuel economy rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard.

The AMG GLB35 emphasized performance over daily-driving comfort, with a firm ride and some throttle lag. The DCT could be confused, and the performance brakes felt uneven in urban settings. However, on twisty roads, the AMG GLB35 was a delight, with excellent grip, responsive steering, and strong brakes. The GLB250, while not as fast, was better suited for daily driving.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4's tall, upright roof provided good headroom in both rows and decent outward visibility. However, legroom was a bit behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat, hard cushions, making long road trips less appealing. The RAV4 offered 37.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place, which was above average but still behind the Honda CR-V. The oversized knobs and steering-wheel controls were easy to use, even with gloves on, but the center-console storage was limited.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was designed for comfort and cargo, with an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard equipment included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats. The GLB offered simulated leather upholstery, with options for real leather, heated and ventilated front seats, and a panoramic glass sunroof. The rear doors opened wide, revealing comfortable seating for two adults, with an optional third-row seat for children. The GLB provided 22 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place and 62 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trim levels had a 7-inch touchscreen, while the Limited model had an 8-inch screen, and the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid offered a 9-inch screen. Up to five USB ports were available, and a JBL premium audio system was optional. The infotainment system was easy to use but not particularly flashy, with a well-positioned touchscreen and shortcut buttons for important functions.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the Mercedes Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system in the AMG GLB35. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The optional Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included a navigation system with augmented reality. Additional upgrades included wireless smartphone charging, a Burmester premium surround-sound audio system, WiFi service, and an MBUX Interior Assistant gesture control system.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Standard safety features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, automatic high beams, road-sign recognition, and Lane Tracing Assist. Higher trim levels added blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, reverse automatic emergency braking, and park assist.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB test vehicle did not include the optional Driver Assistance Package, which added 12 driving assistance and collision-avoidance technologies. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, Mercedes-Benz emergency call service, rain-sensing wipers, an Attention Assist driver monitoring system, and Exit Warning Assist. Crash-test ratings for the GLB were unavailable.