Merc readies new GLB
Stuttgart targets X1 and Q3
Mercedes will finally have a true challenger to the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 in the form of the new GLB, set to arrive next year. Testing of the small SUV is well under way, with new spy shots showing it lapping the Nürburgring Nordschleife as engineers tune its chassis.
Due to appear in showrooms in the first half of 2019, the GLB mixes old-school G-class influences, including a boxy profile and an upright rear end, with contemporary details such as the brand’s softer front-end design and LED headlights.
Development of the GLB was accelerated to bring the car to market in 2019 and maintain sales momentum in the lucrative premium compact car class.
The GLB will serve as a sibling to the smaller GLA, with a less conventional appearance intending to give it more of a true SUV identity. It’s set to be around 4600mm in length, making it 180mm longer than the current GLA. It will share its MFA platform with the new A-class, however, alongside several other compact Mercedes-benz models (see below).
The MFA platform has been reworked to offer greater production flexibility and a lower kerb weight than today’s structure. As such, the GLB will be offered with two wheelbase lengths and either a five- or seven-seat layout, mirroring rivals such as the Volkswagen Tiguan. It is likely that the long-wheelbase SUV will only be sold in selected markets, such as China.
Inside, the GLB is expected to share much of its dashboard architecture and technology with the new A-class, as well as other compact Mercedes models.
Recent trademark filings suggest that variants badged 200, 220 and 250 will be available, sharing the turbocharged four-cylinder units first seen in the 2018 A-class. The base engine is likely to be the 161bhp 1.4-litre unit, with versions of Mercedes’
Old-school G-class influences are mixed with contemporary details
2.0-litre petrol filling out the range. A Renault /nissansourced diesel engine will also appear.
An Amg-badged flagship is expected to land at a later date, with more than 300bhp a strong possibility. A two-tier AMG range, as seen in the A-class, is on the cards, with a flagship GLB 45 and mildhybrid GLB 35 completing the line-up. Also planned is a plug-in petrol-electric hybrid. Buyers will be able to choose between a series of optional styling packages, including a rugged-looking off-road design with extra body cladding and an increased ride height, according to insiders. Four-wheel drive will also be available, but the GLB is unlikely to offer the off-road prowess of the larger G-class.