Mercedes-benz GLB a top contender

Let’s go back in time slightly, to when Mercedes-benz manufactured the GLK series — its weirdly shaped boxy SUV that was slightly ahead of its time.

Since then, Mercedes has revamped its lineup and naming convention to follow an alphabetical order and in full attempts to offer consumers something slightly bigger than its GLA compact SUV and smaller than its GLC. In 2021, Mercedes does it again and implements the GLK, I mean GLB, but this time as a seven-seater.

So yes, the GLK is reborn, yet at the right time this go-around and most importantly at a great price.

A peppy 2.0-liter, inline turbo, four-cylinder engine with 221 horsepower and 258 lb.-ft. of torque has some great pick-up, showing impressive “get out of the way” ability. Compared to others in this classification, this is not the norm; others tend to be sluggish. But to also have good gas mileage on top of good power in the smaller-midsize SUV category, we were impressed. An eight-speed automatic transmission was smooth on our GLB 250 4MATIC allwheel-drive version.

In Patagonia Red Metallic, the GLB 250 stood out well in the crowd. It was roomy on the interior, while sporty and luxurious at the same time. For the $40,000 base price, owning a Mercedes is a lot more realistic with the GLB; upscale models tend to be significantly higher in price.

Standard on the GLB comes Apple Carplay, Android Auto, a power driver’s seat, LED headlights and taillights, a power liftgate, and rain-sensing windshield wipers. Our GLB 250 came with some nice additions, such as the 10.25-inch center and digital instrument cluster, keyless start, power fold in mirrors, active blind spot assist, active lane keeping assist and an array of safety features. Additionally, our GLB came with 19inch 10-spoke wheels with matte black accents, a huge panoramic sunroof, heated front seats and Siriusxm radio.

I was very impressed with the GLB. This mid-size SUV, for the price, really takes it to the competition, all while enjoying the luxury and sportiness Mercedes offers. The GLB is a top contender, and even with the extra value packages, it still keeps a price that consumers can afford and can justify while maintaining a budget in the category.

Mercedes-benz GLB

MSRP: $40,050

As tested: $54,035

MPG: 23 city, 30 highway, 29.2 as tested

MARC GRASSO — MEDIANEWS GROUP The Mercedes-benz GLB 250 is a smaller SUV that provides a peppy ride and room for seven and Mercedes-benz quality at a price that won’t break the bank.