Mercedes GLB. ‘Baby G-wagen’
Mercedes GLB is a luxury compact crossover from the German Mercedes-Benz brand, which has been produced since 2019. It can be both front-wheel and all-wheel drive. You could buy the first generation of this crossover in Israel in 2020.
GLB, which was jokingly called ‘Baby G-wagen’, sits between GLA and GLC-classes in the hierarchy of the German brand. It is comparable to the B-class in size, but the dynamic characteristics in it are from the GLA. The ideas of the external design are borrowed from the G-class SUVs and the crossover is more like the A-class models inside. Here is such an interesting mix! Perhaps the new GLB can compete with the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Range Rover Evoque.
First generation
It has been produced from 2019 to the present. (data for 2020). The first Mercedes GLB X247, presented at the Utah Auto Show, USA, is being built on the Modular Front-drive Architecture (MFA2) platform, which will be the only one for all Mercedes-Benz compact cars soon.
The assembly of the new GLB-series for most countries has been established in the Mexican city of Aguascalientes, and for the Chinese market in Beijing. The car is offered in both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive versions, as well as with a five-seat (default) or seven-seat (option) interior.
Distinctive features
Mercedes' idea was not just to fit a mid-size model between the GLA and GLC crossovers. GLB has a purely family target audience. High ceiling and vertical rear wall dictated by the target audience. You can order any version as a seven-seat version. At the same time, 130 liters of free space will remain in the trunk, which is enough for a couple of hand luggage suitcases. Two Isofix brackets were installed on the couch and third row. In addition, a smart sensor is integrated into the front right seat. If a child seat is installed with the back facing forward, the airbag deactivates itself. Five small children (or four with parents) can fit properly onboard! In short, it’s a versatile yet compact SUV. On request, the second row of seats can be made sliding to make the crossover even more spacious. An additional third row will turn the car into a seven-seater (it will be comfortable for passengers up to 168 cm tall in the back). The 2020 Mercedes GLB will not leave anyone indifferent because of its spacious and expressive design, MBUX system, and seven seats!
GLB, which was jokingly called ‘Baby G-wagen’, sits between GLA and GLC-classes in the hierarchy of the German brand. Mercedes' idea was not just to fit a mid-size model between the GLA and GLC crossovers. GLB has a purely family target audience.
The features of the new generation G-Class dominate the design of the new crossover, while it has a distinctive, unique appearance with original angular fenders above the front wheels and a high roof. Large wheels and an optional off-road package with off-road suspension and high ground clearance are suitable for short trips in normal and difficult terrain. Proprietary adaptive head optics Multibeam LED will be available as an option.
The interior of the new GLB is surprisingly spacious and extremely elegant. The widescreen dashboard display and pleasant LED interior lighting, characteristic SUV design elements are notable features. There is a steering wheel, screens with an MBUX interface, ventilation deflectors, a climate control unit that repeat the solutions on A-class models. Electronic systems include Distronic active cruise control, active steering assistant, multimedia control system, and Energizing Comfort Control lighting. GLB impresses with its high functionality, even without additional equipment. The 40/20/40 split rear seats with backrest adjustment and the height-adjustable luggage compartment floor are examples of this. The active emergency braking system provides a high level of safety.
The initial range includes five crossover variations. Petrol versions are GLB 200, GLB 250 4Matic, diesel versions are GLB 200 d, GLB 200 d Matic and GLB 220 d 4Matic. All of them are complemented by a seven- or eight-speed automatic transmission.
