This compact SUV makes a striking statement on the road, from its unique headlight design to its distinctive silhouette that conveys superior sportiness and modernity. The Mercedes-Benz GLB boasts sports-utility detailing, including cladding, roof rails and simulated underride guard and features a dynamic rear-end design – all of which are evidence of its off-road genes.
At 2,829 millimetres, the GLB has the longest wheelbase of the current compact-class generation from Mercedes-Benz. There’s a generous amount of space inside, with the headroom in the first seat row at 1,069 millimetres. At 967 millimetres, the effective legroom in the second seat row is at a comfortable level and the boot capacity of 570 litres can be extended to an enormous 1,805 when the rear seats are folded forward.
TECHNOLOGY
Easy to use, the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) multimedia system can be adapted in a way that suits. The driver can input via touchscreen, control buttons on the steering wheel, the centre-console mounted touchscreen or the ‘Hey, Mercedes’ voice control. The driver can also adjust elements such as the display style, air conditioning, drive programs and preferred radio station to pre-configured personal settings.
The driver can also wirelessly integrate and charge their smartphone via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to enable convenient access to important applications including those from third-party service providers such as Spotify. In addition to this, the boot door can be opened and closed with hands-free access, which is activated by a sensor area beneath the rear bumper that detects foot motion – handy if you’ve got your hands full. Another nice touch is the option for the driver to use their smartphone as the digital vehicle key to their GLB, meaning they can lock and unlock the car – and even start the engine – via smartphone.
Safety
The GLB safety systems ensure confident driving on any terrain, including comfort suspension and Dynamic Select, which offers different drive programs with setting options for the engine, transmission, chassis and steering – from Sport to Eco. Active Lane Keeping Assist is also available as standard, warning the driver with a vibration on the steering wheel if they veer out of lane, or intervening further with unilateral braking if the next lane is occupied.
As part of the optional Driving Assistance package, the GLB features Active Braking Assist, a Pre-Safe system, Speed Limit Assist, Blind Spot Assist and Traffic Sign Assist. The GLB headlamps use Multibeam LED technology as standard with the Sport and AMG model lines. Meanwhile, the Premium Plus model line features Adaptive Highbeam Assist to mask out oncoming traffic, avoiding the need for constant adjusting.
Features
The interior of the GLB is elegant with distinctive SUV design elements; eye-catching features include a digital touchscreen (size depending on spec), ambient lighting and premium upholstery and trim. Interior space within the GLB is versatile, as seating and luggage space configurations are designed to adapt to the driver’s needs. The second seat row with optional sliding adjustment lets the driver use the interior space in a way that suits and, with optional third-row seating (which can accommodate people up to 5ft 6in tall), the GLB provides room for up to seven people.
When it comes to parking, the GLB offers optional Active Parking Assist, helping the driver to make easy work of tight spaces. This feature searches for a suitable parking space and helps the driver manoeuvre into it with the addition of a reversing camera and ultrasonic sensors, which detect obstacles and emit a visual and audible warning if needed through Rear Cross Traffic Alert.
