Yes, this brand new model from the prestige German car maker is yet another SUV (sport utility vehicle), but take a closer look. Is there a slight similarity to the rugged and dependable ‘G-Wagen’ of legend? We think there might be a hint but the big difference is, this one is electric in differing power outputs and with hybrids to follow at launch in the Spring of this year. It’s the new Mercedes-Benz GLB and it is an all-rounder fit for everyday life. This big new car is available in a five or seven seat configuration that adapts effortlessly to family and business needs.
The GLB now offers more space, a very smart, chunky new design, greater comfort and it even has the ability to tow a full-size caravan or trailer. It proves that an electric SUV can be as versatile as it is capable.
The Bold Exterior
Powerful SUV-style proportions with an upright front and steep windscreen, as well as usefully short overhangs, characterise the modern profile. Surrounding wheel-arch cladding and visual under-ride protection at the front and rear emphasise the off-road styling. A wide track and flush-mounted wheels, together with broad vehicle shoulders, give the GLB a powerful appearance.
A total of no less than 94 individually animated LED stars (somebody counted them) in a chrome look are the highlights of the tri-star-badged grille. Depending on country-specific regulations we learn, the central star is also illuminated in whole or in part. The grille is a major distinguishing feature of the GLB hybrid variant (see below) in that it has the classic radiator grille with a Mercedes-Benz pattern in chrome, surrounded by a standard LED light guide.
Spectacular views are on offer thanks to a generous panoramic roof for unlimited visibility. The large (and pleasingly a standard fit) panoramic roof creates an exceptionally spacious and open feeling. Within milliseconds, the glass surface of the alternative and optional ‘Sky Control’ panoramic roof version can be switched back and forth between transparent for an unobstructed view upwards and opaque for more privacy.
A short while after its market launch, the new GLB will also be available as an attractive entry-level electric model and as a high-tech hybrid with 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated into the transmission.
The state-of-the-art combustion engine will initially be available in three power levels. GLB hybrid models will be able to drive purely electrically and recuperate energy under certain conditions. There will be the choice between front-wheel drive and ‘4MATIC’ all-wheel-drive.
A New Premium Interior
The strikingly attractive, premium new interior design focuses attention on a few high-tech elements, such as the seemingly floating ‘MBUX Superscreen’; an optional extra, alas. Behind the dashboard’s large glass surface are (as standard this time) a 10.25-inch screen for the driver, a 14-inch central display and a 14-inch screen for the front passenger. Incidentally, few cars in this class allow more than two child safety seats to be fitted in the rear. The designers of the new GLB clearly had families in mind as a total of four child seat anchors can be installed in rows two and three, plus one in the front passenger seat.
Another eye-catching feature is the floating, sporty, high-positioned centre console with an additional storage compartment. A newly designed steering wheel is ergonomically built and intuitive to use.
Trim levels that will be available are ‘Progressive Line’, ‘AMG Line’ and ‘AMG Line Plus’ as well as the ‘Night Package’ and other equipment options. The new Mercedes-Benz GLB can be configured in a wide variety of ways to suit requirements. There is also a large selection of trim elements and interior materials. Another customisation option is the selection of eleven ambient styles for the aforementioned and optional ‘MBUX Superscreen’. This allows users to create a personal atmosphere in the vehicle. The colour scheme of the instrument cluster, including gauges, controls and ambient lighting, is coordinated with these background motifs.
The ‘Superscreen’
The optional Mercedes-Benz ‘Superscreen’ is powered by state-of-the-art high-performance chips and real-time graphics. The new control and display concept is tailored to individual customer preferences. The further developed ‘MBUX Zero Layer’ on the central display shows the most important information, suggestions and, for the first time, the most recently used apps. In the app view, apps can now be moved and grouped into individually named folders, similar to a smartphone. When an app is open, a simple swipe to the left returns to the app view. Another swipe takes the user back to the ‘Zero Layer’.
The Technology
The new GLB fully operates on the latest fourth-generation of the in-house-developed ‘Mercedes Benz Operating System’ (MBOS). The AI-enhanced system makes it possible to equip every vehicle with super-computers connected to the Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Cloud. This enables regular over-the-air updates for the most important vehicle functions, including driving assistance systems. This keeps the GLB up-to-date and relevant for years to come. As Digital Extras, additional functions can also be ordered via the Mercedes-Benz Store. Now you can shop for your car.
In the new GLB, the navigation experience is based on the reliable ‘Google Maps’. Interestingly, the navigation solution developed as part of the partnership between Google and Mercedes-Benz is one of the first integrations of Google Cloud’s new ‘Automotive AI Agent’ for in-vehicle conversation services with Google Maps.
MercedesBenz Navigation with ‘Electric Intelligence’ plans the fastest and most convenient route, including charging stops, based on numerous factors. Integrated visual communication also reaches a new dimension with ‘MBUX Surround Navigation’. It seamlessly integrates the driver-assistance view with a 3D representation of the surroundings and route guidance in real-time on the driver display. Needless to say, the full suite of driver assistance programmes, infotainment and safety technology is right up to date, as might be expected from this prestige brand.
On The Road
The suspension offers adaptive damping, which comes as standard in combination with 20 inch wheels (there will be a choice of alloys), ensures a particularly comfortable or alternatively sporty driving experience. Drivers can use the ‘Dynamic Select’ switch to change the vehicle's damping characteristics. They can choose between ‘Comfort’ mode with more comfortable damping characteristics or ‘Sport’ mode for a sporty, firm setting. Depending upon the chosen fully electric variant, drivers can expect up to 392 miles (631 kilometres) of range.
To go even further than that, energy can be recharged quickly thanks to an 800-volt system, in conjunction with a new generation of battery, ensuring short charging times. The GLB can be recharged for a range of up to 161 miles (260 kilometres) within 10 minutes. Fast DC charging is possible at 800-volt charging stations with a charging capacity of up to 320 kW. However, the GLB can also use a 400-volt charging infrastructure. A DC converter is available as an option.
MHH International With Mercedes-Benz
After our most successful year yet, MHH International are the leaders in new and used vehicle exports from the UK to up to twenty-seven global destinations including Kenya and New Zealand. See the country listing on our website. We offer a huge range of Mercedes-Benz vehicles (see current stock listings on this page). If you do see the right vehicle for you then please get in touch with our highly experienced colleagues for assistance. Ask about VAT-free options too. We look forward to hearing from you in 2026.
