All-New Mercedes-Benz GLB Debuts, But Only As a Pure EV

Key Points

• Mercedes-Benz launches the new GLB, a practical compact SUV with gas, hybrid, and EV variants.
• GLB offers advanced tech features, spacious interiors, and configurable 5 or 7-seat options.
• Standard features include panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise, and semi-autonomous driving capabilities.

A Crucial Model
We called the soon-to-be-outgoing model a baby seven-seater done right. Okay, it didn’t have the most cavernous third-row area, but as far as entry-level luxury crossovers went, it didn’t feel like a bog-standard small crossover with a fancy badge for the sake of owning something with a three-pointed star.

Now, Mercedes-Benz has rolled out the all-new GLB. It’s the biggest of the front-drive models, and the first to benefit from the comprehensively redesigned CLA’s platform. That means there’s a mix of gas-fed and EV models, but in a more practical package.

The Launch Models
As you read this, the compact seven-seater is now available for sale in Germany. It’s the electric models that roll out first in GLB 250+ with EQ Technology and GLB 350 4MATIC, effectively replacing the EQB. The name’s a mouthful, but one way to differentiate them from the hybrid models is the closed grille. Both are available in either 5 or 7-seat configurations.

Both use an 800V architecture like the CLA, allowing for faster charging capabilities. Entry-level trims use a 58 kWh battery, while an 85 kWh pack is available. The 250+ models put out 268hp and 247 lb-ft of torque, while the 350 4Matic makes 359 hp and 380 lb-ft. Pretty solid figures for a mini family bus, particularly in the 350 4Matic.

As for range, Mercedes-Benz claims up to 392 miles for the 250+ equipped with the 85 kWh battery. Meanwhile, the punchier all-wheel drive version can get up to 382 miles on a single full charge. The company also boasts that a 10-minute charge can add nearly 160 miles to the range.

What About the Hybrids?
The hybrid models will make their way to German showrooms a few months after the sales of the EV versions start. So far, we only know of one trim, namely the GLB 220, but it’s expected to have three power outputs, much like the hybrid CLAs that commenced sales in Europe not that long ago.

All use a 1.5-liter turbo engine, and the base model puts out 156 hp. Mid-spec GLBs, likely to have the 200 designation, make 184 hp. As for the 220, it’s good for 211 hp. Most are available with 4Matic all-wheel drive, and front-wheel drive is the standard drivetrain. Like the EV version, it can be specified with 5 or 7 seats.

Interior and Tech
Screens, screens, and more screens. That’s the theme of the all-new GLB’s cabin, especially for those who opt for the MBUX Superscreen. It features a 10.25-inch driver’s display, a 14-inch infotainment screen, and a 14-inch front passenger screen. In terms of appearance, it’s similar to the CLA, and it also gets a high-set center console and some physical controls on the steering wheel.

The second-generation GLB benefits from an in-house developed operating system. It’s AI-enhanced and connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud to enable over-the-air updates. Google integration is also present, as well as ChatGPT4o for navigation and concierge services.

With larger exterior dimensions, Mercedes-Benz says there’s more room inside the all-new GLB. Improvements were made to the second and third-row areas, as well as the cargo room. EV models get a frunk to boost practicality, while five-seater versions get hidden underfloor storage.

Other Highlights
A fixed panoramic sunroof is fitted standard, and the glass can ‘frost’ itself opaque to keep the cabin cool. The company is also proud of the fact that there are ISOFIX child seat mounts in the third-row seats for those who go for the seven-seat version. Downloadable applications, including Disney+ and Ridevu, provide on-board entertainment.

Drive modes are, of course, standard, and 4Matic-equipped GLBs get an additional Terrain Mode. Granted, it won’t turn it into a G-Class, but it should help in tricky situations. Distronic adaptive cruise control is fitted standard, at least for the European market. More advanced assists are available, including level 2 semi-autonomous driving capabilities and autonomous parking assists.