Mercedes reinvents the compact SUV with the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB
Mercedes has added a new addition to their new family, introducing the all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB. The GLB is the first Mercedes compact SUV segment that is optional as a seven-seater and that will be powered by completely updated four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines. The team of Auto Advisor recently got to spend some time with Mercedes-Benz as they revealed their new line-up of SUV’s in Zwartkops raceway.
Johannes Fritz, Co-CEO Mercedes-Benz South Africa and Executive Director Mercedes-Benz Cars South Africa says, “There is a growing interest for SUVs, while compact cars are also seeing an increase in sales. So, a compact SUV such as the GLB blends all the success factors of our two segments,"
The GLB 250 produces 165kW of power and 350Nm of torque. While the two-litre diesel engine in the GLB 220d 4MATIC produces 140kW of power and 400Nm of torque. Both models will be powered by an 8G-DCT (automatic) transmission. The GLB 250 offers a combined fuel consumption 7.4-7.1 l/100 km, while the GLB 220d 4MATIC offers combined fuel consumption of 5.4-5.1 l/100 km.
The new GLB will have a very off-road focused design, as it comes with an upright front section, striking headlamps, and short overhangs at the front and rear. The doors reach over the side bar, improving ease of access, and keep the door apertures free of soiling as well as increasing protection in a side impact. The protective claddings divide the overall proportions and emphasize the vehicle's off-road character, as does the stylised skid plate at the front and rear.
The GLB’s wheelbase is 10cm longer than the new B Class. The car measures 4634mm long, 1834mm wide, and 1658mm high. Giving over enough headroom in the first seat row. Even if one chooses a five-seater, they will still get over enough effective legroom. The two optional additional individual seats can even seat people up to 1.68m tall in comfort.
For comfort in the backseats, it will include two drinks holders between the seats as well as two stowage compartments with rubberised inserts on the left and right in the load compartment trim, each housing a USB port.
The new GLB will come with driving assistance systems that were taken from S-Class, it comes with improved camera and radar systems that allow the GLB to see up to 500 metres ahead. The MBUX infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) offers the driver excellent screen graphics, customizable presentation, full-colour head-up display, with optional navigation and augmented reality, learning software, and voice control.
Pricing
Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 R831 000
Mercedes-Benz GLB 220 d 4MATIC R841 000
