Mercedes-Benz has finally revealed its long-teased GLB the first model from the German marque to offer buyers a compact seven-seat luxury SUV.
The new Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is an all-new vehicle, though it does have similarity from the compact A-Class. There’s a small, entry-level hatchback or sedan, the GLB-Class offers buyers a classic SUV shape on a compact platform with something that is not often found at this level – the option for three-row, seven-passenger seating.
Mercedes sold 609,000 cars based on MFA 1 and MFA 2 platforms last year, about a quarter of its total volumes. It’s part of the expanded range of compact cars based upon Mercedes-Benz’s second-generation modular front- and all-wheel drive MFA platform, joining the familiar A-Class hatch and sedan, CLA four-door coupe, GLA crossover, and B-Class MPV.
The optional third row has accommodations for two, with other convenience like a cup holders between the seats and also USB power ports for phones and devices. The GLB’s side airbags are designed to protect third-row passengers, and Mercedes points out the availability of anchor points for child seats.
The car is packed with a 7.0-inch instrument screen, and a 7.0-inch center touchscreen display dominates the dash, the latter allowing access to a multitude of standard-issue tech including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The automaker’s MBUX system with voice control is also standard, as are a suite of driver assist systems including active braking, crosswind assist, and a rearview camera. Optional packages include blind spot assist, navigation, parking assist, larger 10.25-inch displays, an upgraded Burmester surround system, heads-up display, and much more.
At launch, Mercedes-Benz will offer two models – the GLB 250 and GLB 250 4MATIC and will arrive towards the end of this fall with pricing somewhere between $34,000 and $41,000.
