2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB

History/Overview

The GLB is a new Mercedes-Benz crossover SUV for the 2020 model year. It bolsters the brand’s utility range as its first compact model to offer three rows of seating.

Available Trims

Mercedes-Benz offers the GLB 250 in a single trim level, powered by a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and the company’s 4Matic all-wheel drive system.

Standard Features

Inside, the GLB is standard with a panoramic sunroof, heated front seats with power adjustments and memory, automatic climate control, Artico upholstery, push-button engine start, cruise control, dual 7.0-inch infotainment and gauge cluster displays, infotainment touchpad controller, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth with audio streaming, and HD radio.

Exterior items include 18-inch alloy wheels, aluminum roof rails, all-LED lighting, heated/power-folding side mirrors, and an auto-dimming driver’s side mirror.

Among the GLB’s standard safety features are attention and crosswind assists, tire pressure monitoring, and rain-sensing wipers with heated washers.

Key Options

A sport package bundles 19-inch wheels, AMG body styling, shift paddles, sport seats, upgraded brakes, and enhanced engine sound.

The GLB’s tech package brings multibeam LED headlights with automatic high beams, and adaptive cruise control.

A premium pack adds dual 10.25-inch gauge and infotainment displays, the “Hey Mercedes” command, an off-road performance system, blind spot monitoring, passive keyless entry, a power hands-free tailgate, LED ambient interior lighting, wireless smartphone charging, and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration.

A self-explanatory navigation package also includes live traffic info, augmented navigation video, and traffic sign recognition.

Finally, the intelligent drive package is where Benz bundles the GLB’s active safety and driver assist functions, such as active/evasive steering assist, forward collision detection with automatic braking, blind spot monitoring with lane change assist, and adaptive cruise with stop-and-go.

Fuel Economy

As of this writing, Mercedes-Benz had not published fuel consumption estimates for the GLB. We anticipate its ratings will be around 10.5/7.5 L/100 km (city/highway).

Competition

The Mercedes-Benz GLB faces little competition as a compact with a seven-seat option. Its closest direct competitor is the Land Rover Discovery Sport with its third-row option. The Volkswagen Tiguan comes close, too, in its top-end trim level.