Mercedes Reveals New GLB Compact SUV

All-New SUV

Some times, an all-new vehicle isn't necessarily new. It's either a facelift or a major reworking of a previous model. With the new GLB-Class, Mercedes has introduced a completely new model. The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a new SUV that borrows significantly from the A-class. It's built on a compact platform meant to fill the gap that exists between the GLA and GLC models. 

Photos Courtesy of Motor1.  

Unique Proposition

The GLB offers something unique to its buyers - a 3-row, 7-seat layout. The rear row can comfortably fit kids and adults that are not taller than 5'5. The vehicle offers a unique option for families in a boxy-like space that is more stylish than most SUVs.  

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Longer Wheelbase

There being 7 seats, Mercedes built the GLB on a longer wheelbase to help increase the interior space. The vehicle has no rivals at the moment. Its immediate competitors are the Honda CR-V, Nissan X-Trail, and the Tiguan Allspace. Overall, the vehicle measures 182 inches long, 72 inches wide, and 65 inches high. It's smaller than the GLC but bigger than the GLA.  

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Off-Road Capability

According to Mercedes, the GLB has an optional 4-wheel drive that allows it to go off the bitumen once in a while. Its rear overhangs and short front help in maneuvering coarser surfaces with ease. Included is an exclusive off-road light feature that works by turning on the car's cornering light. This helps drivers to see potential obstacles in the dark.  

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Engines

The GLB will have multiple options for both the diesel and gas engines. The latter comprises a 2.0-liter and a 1.3-liter engine options. These will be paired to an automatic 8-speed and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission respectively. The diesel engine will have two 2.0-liter options both linked to an automatic 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.  

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Power

The 2.0-liter gas engine makes an impressive 221 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 258 pound-feet of torque at between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm. Mercedes claims that this is enough to get the GLB from 0-60 mph in 6.9 seconds. As for the 1.3-liter gas engine, output stands at 163 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The 2.0-liter diesel variant produces 150 horsepower and 236 pound-feet of torque. A top-of-the-line diesel option will be available in the GLB 220d 4MATIC which produces 190 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque.  

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Tech and Safety

At the GLB's cockpit sits two digital screens, a 7.0-inch center touchscreen placed on the dash for multimedia and a 7.0-inch instrument screen. The car will feature Mercedes' MBUX system, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, active braking, a rearview camera, and crosswind assist as standard. Options include parking assist, heads-up display, blind spot assist, larger 10.25-inch displays, navigation, an updated Burmester surround system, and much more.  

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Interior

For starters, the GLB features a sunroof to bring an open feel, air-conditioning vents that are aircraft-inspired and one of the best spaces you can ever have in an SUV. Due to the third row, the second row isn't as spacious. Buyers get about 20 cubic feet of luggage space when the third row is folded and 62 cubic feet when the second row is also folded. The back seats are equipped with USB ports, storage bins, and cup holders to ensure your passengers are tech-powered and comfortable.  

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GLB 45

Next year, a high-performance variant of the GLB will debut. It will be dubbed GLB 45. Awaited features include more power, a jet black spoiler, and a number of sporty features. At the front, it will have aggressive air intakes that will replace the fake vents put in the standard GLB.  

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Release Date

Sales are expected to start in the second half of 2019 as we await the facelifted GLA in 2020. Mercedes will launch two models, the GLB 250 and the GLB 250 4MATIC. The automaker will release the pricing closer to the car's release date.  

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