Motoring

The GLB is a new model for Mercedes-Benz. Technically it’s a compact SUV but things aren’t quite as simple jacking up a B-Class.

A jacked up A-Class. Half kidding – the GLB is based on the same modular MFA2 platform as the A-Class, B-Class, CLA and GLA. It has a wheelbase stretched by 100mm over the hatchback and the boxy body gives the impression the GLB is larger than it is.

Mercedes is pitching the GLB as a first step into the MB world, namely for young families. There are seven seats, each coming with a USB-C charging point, and the third row even offers four Isofix and five top-tether anchorage points.

There’s enough space in the middle row for a couple of adults and the final two seats can be occupied by two fully grown humans at a pinch as well. Luggage capacity is rated at 565L with the third row folded, expandable to a decent 1800L.

GLB doesn’t look like a lifted A- or B-Class either, with styling pulled more from the larger MB SUVs. The square shape paired with chunky wheel arches and decent suspension travel gives a stauncher look and improved interior space to the GLB while retaining a respectable length. It’s not bad looking but is a bit. . . dowdy.

The AMG additions do help in this regard, however.

Inside is standard Mercedes, with plenty of luxury touches to remind you where your $90k went. There are strips of LED lights around the cabin that can glow an array of different colours, the metallic vents also glow and there are twin digital screens for the MBUX infotainment system and driver readouts. There isn’t much new to discuss here, if you’re familiar with other modern Mercedes’ then you’ll be right at home in the GLB.