Words by Marcus Boothby
Mercedes-Benz is a brand you’ve probably heard of, with a product in almost every segment possible. Their portfolio (excluding vans, trucks, buses and Smart), now contains at least 35 unique models with all sorts of powertrain options that include fully electric, hybrid, petrol and diesel.
Out of these 35 models, 10 of the models are SUVs. SUVs sell like hot cakes as they’ve slowly replaced traditional saloons and estates. Now, here at Motordiction, we’re not the biggest fan of SUVs and it takes us a lot of convincing to like a SUV. And one of them is the GLB; Mercedes’ second smallest SUV, slotting in nicely between the recently updated GLA and the popular GLC.
The GLB is a bit of a weird product as it’s slightly bigger than the GLA, but smaller than the GLC, yet being better than both of the aforementioned models. The GLB is basically a small G-Wagen in our eyes, as it has a traditional 4x4 design unlike the curvier GLA, has a premium interior and is genuinely practical. The GLB has a choice of diesel and petrol engines, with a range topping 300bhp GLB 35 AMG. There are also rumours of a GLB 45 AMG, and a hybrid version coming soon, which would be nice if you want those sweet MPGs, and lower tax bracket.
On the inside, it’s what you expect from a modern small Mercedes product, sharing a lot of parts with the A-Class. This means you get the excellent MBUX infotainment system which has been highly praised since its introduction. Other than the infotainment, you get a nicely designed interior, which feels like the one seen in the A-Class but scaled up slightly. All you need to know, it’s a very nice place to be in, but leaving a part of you wishing you spent a bit more and got a GLE. Oh, and it has the option of 7 seats, which is useful I guess. However, if you don’t want to use the third row (trust me, you don’t), you get a fairly spacious boot to carry many things.
We’re yet to drive the GLB but we imagine it handles well enough, but don’t expect it to handle like a sports car, as you know, it’s a compact crossover. But, you do get a high driving position which when combined with the big windows all round, you get a good view of the road ahead. But I can already hear you saying “the rear window is too small and I can’t park properly”. Well panic not, the GLB has parking sensors and a backup camera as standard meaning you can park it. There is also an optional 360 degree camera system which is included in the £3000 Premium package.
Speaking of prices, the GLB isn’t cheap. In the UK, the range starts with the GLB 200 Sport which starts at £33,770 before options, with the current range topping GLB 35 AMG starting at £47,015. So it’s not cheap, but is it worth the money? Well, most GLB’s will be acquired via finance or a nice lease package meaning most GLB owners won’t buy one outright.
So long story short, if you want to be different and have a bold, yet quirky crossover, get a GLB. However, the Volvo XC40 is in this price bracket so it’d be worth looking at both and decide which one would impress your neighbours and co-workers more. We’re torn between the two but if it was me, I’d get the GLB.