Mercedes-Benz officially unveils its new compact SUV, the GLB

The Mercedes-Benz GLB has always stood out as the most practical model among the entry-level vehicles in the German manufacturer’s range, and with the arrival of the new electric generation based on the MMA platform, it aims to maintain that privileged position in the premium compact SUV segment.

After the launch of the CLA and its Shooting Brake variant, it is now the turn of the GLB, initially available only with an all-electric drive system; although a 48-volt mild hybrid version will also arrive later.

Starting with the design of this new model, as can be seen in the images attached to this post, it evolves toward softer, more rounded shapes, but retains some characteristic elements such as the almost vertical rear window and the high roof, which guarantee its recognizable silhouette and its great functionality.

You’re going to like the new GLB

At the front, the continuous light bar, the closed black panel decorated with Mercedes stars and two horizontal slats with chrome inserts stand out, reinforcing its SUV character. In profile, the long bonnet, necessary for the future hybrid version, and the almost horizontal cabin recall the previous model. At the rear, the taillights and some details are somewhat reminiscent of the Smart #5, although both projects were developed independently.

At 4.73 metres long, the new GLB has grown by almost 10 centimetres compared to the previous generation, which has allowed the wheelbase to be increased by 6 centimetres to 2.89 metres, thus offering more interior space. Its width is 1.86 metres and its height is 1.69 metres. It still offers seven real seats as an option, with limitations, provided the passengers in the last row are not very tall.

The range starts with two versions equipped with an 85 kWh NMC battery. The GLB 250+ rear-wheel drive with 200 kW of power is capable of covering up to 631 km under the WLTP homologation cycle, while the GLB 350 4MATIC, which adds a 80 kW front motor that can be disconnected, slightly reduces its range to 614 km. Both versions support fast charging of up to 320 kW in direct current, making it possible to increase the state of charge from 10 to 80 percent in just 22 minutes. A GLB 200 with a 58 kWh LFP battery and charging of up to 200 kW is expected later on.

Price and availability

In Germany, the GLB 250+ starts at 59,048 euros and the 350 4MATIC at 62,178 euros. Mercedes is already accepting orders and allows the vehicle to be configured online. Compared to the CLA Shooting Brake, the GLB is only slightly more expensive, but offers much more versatility: a 540-litre boot, up to 1,715 litres with the rear seats folded, and a practical 127-litre front trunk.

Looking at its interior, the huge Superscreen already known from the CLA and the availability of a floating centre console stand out. It is also worth noting that the new GLB incorporates a new heat pump which, according to Mercedes-Benz, heats the cabin twice as fast while consuming half the energy in conditions of intense cold.

With a more emotional design, more space, competitive range and ultra-fast charging, the new GLB combines the practicality that has always characterised this model with the most advanced next-generation electric technology from the German manufacturer, positioning itself as an option to seriously consider in the premium compact SUV segment.