Hyundai Staria vs Mercedes-Benz GLB
What's the difference?

Hyundai Staria

$47,740 - $73,740

2026 price

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Mercedes-Benz GLB

$65,400 - $106,228

2026 price

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Volkswagen Transporter

Volvo C40

Summary

2026 Hyundai Staria

2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB

By Mark Oastler

By Jack Quick

Safety Rating

Engine Type

Turbo 4, 1.6L

Turbo 4, 1.3L

Fuel Type

Premium Unleaded/Electric

Premium Unleaded Petrol

Fuel Efficiency

6.5L/100km (combined)

7.5L/100km (combined)

Seating

Likes

Hybrid performance & economy
One-tonne-plus payload
ANCAP safety rating

Comfortable ride
Sharp and precise steering
Generous boot space (in five-seat mode)

Dislikes

No tow rating
Cargo load volume
Cabin noise at highway speeds

More power would be nice
Expensive to service
Looking dated

2026 Hyundai Staria Summary

Hyundai has recently launched an updated Staria Load range, with the most significant addition for buyers of mid-size (2.5 tonne-3.5 tonne GVM) commercial vans being the first-time availability of a hybrid drivetrain.

On paper this new HEV (Hybrid Electric Vehicle) option brings numerous advantages over its diesel sibling, so we recently spent a week at the wheel to see if they are sufficient to win over traditional diesel van buyers.

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2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB Summary

A new-generation Mercedes-Benz GLB is just around the corner, so the current model is now on its farewell tour.

When it launched in 2019 it stood out from the crowd as a premium small-to-medium SUV with the flexibility of seven seats. Even now no other premium carmaker offers a car that’s a direct rival to this. You need to look at mainstream options instead that are slightly larger.

A mid-life update that arrived in 2023 brought some minor tweaks including different exterior and interior styling, along with mild-hybrid power for certain variants.

On test here is the entry-level GLB200 which didn’t receive mild-hybrid assistance. Read along to find out whether it’s the pick of the line-up.

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Deep dive comparison

2026 Hyundai Staria 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB

Verdict

The Staria Load HEV offers numerous advantages over its diesel equivalent including superior fuel economy, lower exhaust emissions, higher power output and a bigger payload. However, it also has a higher purchase price and no tow rating, so careful analysis of your specific work requirements will determine if Hyundai’s new hybrid van is fit for purpose.

Verdict

The Mercedes-Benz GLB is an oddball. While it isn’t my definition of beauty, it's a surprisingly capable and spacious small-to-medium SUV.

The entry-level GLB200, while comfortable, feels a bit underdone in the engine department. Therefore the mid-spec GLB250 with the more-powerful 2.0-litre turbo and mild-hybrid assistance plus all-wheel drive grip is the better pick.

Hyundai Staria vs Mercedes-Benz GLB What's the difference?

Summary

Deep dive comparison

Verdict

Verdict

Hyundai Staria vs Mercedes-Benz GLB
What's the difference?