In 2026, the electric crossover market exploded with new releases, intensifying competition among manufacturers. Two contenders quickly emerged at the forefront for the title of the most compelling electric SUV — Mercedes GLB and Tesla Model Y. Both promise long range, advanced technology, and a spacious interior, but their differences run much deeper than they appear at first glance.
Buyers choosing between these models face a tough decision: German precision versus American innovation, premium comfort versus minimalism, and a significant price gap. We broke down both vehicles in detail to determine which one truly leads the electric SUV segment.
Design and Space
The Mercedes GLB stands out immediately with its robust, confident presence. Measuring 4.73 meters long, 1.86 wide, and 1.69 high, it’s hard to miss on the road. Its exterior emphasizes off-road capability: an upright windshield, muscular wheel arches, and protective elements. Inside, it boasts a true technological breakthrough — three integrated displays, including the new Superscreen MBUX, and a fresh take on ergonomics. There’s no room for boredom here — every detail is meticulously considered.
Unlike Mercedes, the Tesla Model Y embraces a minimalist philosophy. The cabin is almost free of buttons, with all functions managed via a massive 15.4-inch touchscreen. Rear passengers get their own display, which adds comfort on long journeys. Despite its simplicity, Tesla hasn’t forgotten about comfort: enhanced sound insulation, power-adjustable and ventilated seats, and a spacious 854-liter trunk make the Model Y a practical choice for families.
Technology and Features
The Mercedes GLB bets on cutting-edge solutions: the new fourth-generation MBUX multimedia system runs on MB.OS and integrates AI from Microsoft and Google. Drivers have access to a virtual assistant, Bing search, and Google Maps-based navigation with Electric Intelligence. The option to install up to seven seats is impressive, and the third row is genuinely suitable for adult passengers—a rarity in this class.
Tesla Model Y takes a simpler but no less effective approach. Most controls are on the central touchscreen, and the updated software offers a host of features—from gaming and streaming series to advanced climate controls. Premium versions offer a seven-seat configuration, though the third row is better suited for children or teenagers. Still, Tesla’s trunk space is unmatched, especially with the rear seats folded.
Performance and Range
The 2026 Mercedes GLB is available in two versions: the GLB 250+ with 272 hp and an 85 kWh battery (629 km range), and the GLB 350 4MATIC with two motors, all-wheel drive, and 354 hp (613 km range). Both models use an 800-volt architecture, enabling them to add 260 kilometers of range in just 10 minutes on a fast charger. The battery charges from 10% to 80% in only 22 minutes—an excellent figure for long-distance journeys.
The Tesla Model Y comes in four variants: from the base Standard (299 hp, 60 kWh, 534 km) up to Performance (627 hp, 75 kWh, 580 km). The longest-range option—Standard Gran Autonomía—offers up to 657 km on a single charge, while the top Performance model accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.5 seconds. Charging is swift: up to 250 kW on higher-capacity batteries, so you don’t waste time on the road.
Price and practicality
This is where things get interesting. The Mercedes GLB starts at €55,925, and you’ll pay even more for the top configuration. The Tesla Model Y is noticeably more affordable: the base version costs €39,990, and even the advanced Premium Gran Autonomía with 622 km of range and 347 hp is priced at €49,990. The difference is significant—nearly €16,000 separates comparably equipped models.
However, Mercedes makes up for the price with generous features, a spacious cabin, and the confidence to go off-road. The GLB can accommodate up to four child seats in the second and third rows, and the five-seat version offers a 540-liter trunk (up to 1,715 liters with the seats folded down). Tesla wins on trunk volume and performance, but falls short in interior quality and overall versatility.
A choice without compromise
When comparing these two vehicles, it’s clear that each is crafted for a specific audience. The Tesla Model Y appeals to pragmatic drivers who prioritize range, performance, and price. The Mercedes GLB is for those who value premium comfort, advanced technology, and refuse to compromise on safety and features. Both crossovers have the power to impress, but they do so in different ways.
That said, the electric vehicle market is evolving rapidly, and tomorrow may bring new contenders that will redefine what the ideal electric SUV should be. For now, the Mercedes GLB and Tesla Model Y continue to compete for the hearts of European drivers, each offering a unique set of advantages.
RUSSPAIN reminds readers that Mercedes-Benz is one of Germany’s oldest and most respected car manufacturers, founded in 1926. The company is renowned for its innovations in safety, comfort, and technology, with a broad lineup ranging from compact cars to luxury SUVs. Tesla, on the other hand, is an American brand that has become a symbol of the electric vehicle revolution in recent years, thanks to its cutting-edge technology, distinctive design philosophy, and the development of a worldwide charging infrastructure.
