Test drive Mercedes GLB: Small G

Experience one of the latest additions to the SUV lineup. Mercedes

Mercedes GLB. A designation that appears for the first time in the model range of the brand, with a three-pointed star on the emblem. What exactly is behind this? From the letters GL it is easy to guess that this is an SUV, and from addition B it is not difficult to draw one more conclusion - the car is positioned between the GLA and GLC in terms of price and size. In fact, the design of the Mercedes GLB is quite unconventional compared to the company's other multifunctional models - despite its (relatively) compact size, it has a rather impressive appearance due to certain angular shapes and almost vertical side parts, and its interior can accommodate up to seven people or more than a solid amount of luggage. That is, it is an SUV with a vision closer to the G-model than to parquet SUVs, with very good functionality, which makes it a very interesting proposition for people with large families or hobbies that require a lot of space.

Well, mission accomplished, the GLB is on the market with a truly confident demeanor. Especially from the looks of it, it's hard to believe that it's really based on a platform known to the A- and B-classes. With a length of about 4,60 and a width of more than 1,60 meters, the car is positioned precisely in the segment of family SUV models, where competition, to put it mildly, is contested.

Familiar style and plenty of room in the interior

On our first test drive of the model, we had the opportunity to get acquainted with the 220 d 4Matic version, which has a four-cylinder two-liter diesel engine (OM 654q), an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and a dual transmission. The first impression of the car is that it is quite spacious inside and the interior design is something we already know well. Large TFT screens across the entire width of the dashboard, a small gearshift lever on the steering column and distinctive round ventilation nozzles are all typical of Mercedes. Of course, the GLB also received “off-road” elements both outside and inside -

With an impressive 2,80-meter wheelbase, the GLB is really spacious inside. The maximum cargo volume is over 1800 liters, with a third row of seats available as an option. In fact, these additional seats can only be used when there is a real and urgent need, but they do give a serious financial advantage over tax laws in some countries. The second row seats, in turn, can be folded separately and also adjusted horizontally.

The driving position is not a surprise, and visibility, thanks to the angular body and large windows, is expected to be good. Otherwise, we have already written a lot about the management of the MBUX system, so there is no need to go into spatial comments on the topic.

Harmonic Drive

190 HP and 1700kg proved to be a pretty good combination in GLB. The diesel engine we tested fits in very well with the overall character of the GLB - the drive looks very refined and restrained, while still providing plenty of traction for spirited acceleration. The DCT transmission shifts gears with perfect smoothness and impressive speed.

We were able to briefly get acquainted with the qualities of the 250 horsepower GLB 224 gasoline engine. We liked the two-liter petrol unit for its good manners and calm temperament.

Prices start at 73 leva for the most affordable front-wheel drive models, while a well-equipped GLB 000 d 220Matic or GLB 4 250Matic will cost you over 4 leva.

CONCLUSION

With an impressively large interior and a well-thought-out drivetrain, the new Mercedes GLB performs convincingly. That it's not cheap is to be expected from Mercedes.

Text: Heinrich Lingner