Big baby brother.
Mercedes-Benz has released details of its upcoming small SUV that we saw as a concept a couple of months ago. This model is to the standard B-class what the GLA is to the A-class in terms of sizing with a 10cm longer wheelbase than the new B-class. The estate-like proportions mean this is the first car in this segment to offer optional seven seats with the 3rd row. MB claims the last row can accommodate passengers up to 1.68m tall but I suspect they won’t be that comfortable over a long distance. I personally find it quite an attractive vehicle, it’s not overly imposing but it’s not too soft either. Not sure if it is just me but the rear does look like a stormtrooper helmet from Star Wars!
AutoGlide.
The initial run of the GLB will include 5 models, two petrol and three diesel’s all of which come as automatics. First in the line-up is the GLB200, utilising the 1.3 turbo four-pot it has respectable outputs of 120kw and 250nm giving it acceptable performance. 0-100kmh is claimed at 9.1 seconds. Next up is the GLB250 4Matic and as the name suggests this uses MB’s 4 wheel drive system to put it’s 165kw and 350nm to the ground, that power comes from a 2.0l turbo. The GLB250 completes the 0-100 sprint in a fairly brisk 6.9 seconds.
On the diesel side of the garage, all three models are powered by the same frugal 2.0l four-cylinder turbodiesel. Both the GLB200d and GLB200d 4Matic have outputs of 110kw and 320kw, while the GLB220d 4Matic has 140kw and 400nm. The whole range uses 8-speed dual clutch automatic transmissions except for the GLB200 which uses the 7-speed.
Business Class.
In typical Mercedes-Benz fashion, the interior is a supremely classy place to be with the design inspired by models higher up the MB family tree. The two large digital displays add to the high tech aura.
The Dynamic Select switch changes the torque distribution of the 4Matic 4 wheel drive system depending on which one of the three modes are selected. Comfort/Eco mode sends 80% to the front wheels, Sport sends 70% to the front and 30% to the back. When in offroad mode the torque is split evenly between the axles with the clutch effectively acting as a locking centre diff. This offroad ability is part of the Off-Road Engineering package on 4Matic models.
Pricing and availability is yet to be confirmed
