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The Mercedes GLB is hardly shorter than a GLC and even has more space inside. Seen in this way, it is the choice of common sense in the Mercedes SUV range. But there is one thing you should do without.
With the new GLB, Mercedes has further split its SUV range. Located between CLA and GLC, the marketing experts definitely see opportunities for another model. With more space than in the CLA and cheaper prices than the GLC, it aims to attract those willing to change and, with up to seven seats, also offers the option of moving a family vehicle with a star apart from the V-Class or Vito.
Definitely an eye catcher
The new one doesn't need to hide. The appearance of our test car, a GLB 220d 4Matic, is impressive. This is due, on the one hand, to the “AMG Line” equipment package (extra charge: around 3.400 euros), which allows the vehicle to drive up with typical AMG design attributes. Here it glitters and flashes thanks to chrome trim on the front and rear, 19-inch models and two tailpipe trims also attract attention. Those who are satisfied with less bling-bling also receive normal Mercedes designs with, among other things, two individual lamellas on the radiator grille. On the other hand, the designers have tailored the GLB a chic and angular sheet metal dress with short overhangs and with optical borrowings from the GLS and G-Class.
Space miracle
Technically, the 4,63 meter long GLB is based on the same platform as the A-Class, the CLA or the B-Class. In terms of length, however, it is already scratching the larger GLC, which is only three centimeters longer at 4,66 meters, and benefits from the transverse engine in terms of space. Our test car was equipped with five seats, alternatively Mercedes also offers two more seats that can be lowered into the vehicle floor (surcharge: around 1.300 euros). Whether two or three people are in the back seat depends on the passengers' body mass index. This should also help decide whether the sports seats, which are part of the AMG Line equipment, are appreciated or rather cramped.
Thanks to a height of 1,70 meters, there is plenty of air between the hair and the roof, even with tall occupants. The sliding back seat is practical (surcharge: 430 euros), it can be moved lengthways by 14 centimeters in favor of more legroom or luggage volume. With the rear seat backs folded down, the trunk volume is up to 1.805 liters, in the standard position it is 570 liters. Bulky purchases can be stowed away with ease; If you have still ordered the folding front passenger seat, you can confidently drive to the take-away furniture store of your choice.
Power pack
The two-liter, four-cylinder diesel with 140 kW / 190 PS (220d) provided propulsion. It is the most powerful diesel in the GLB range. Together with all-wheel drive, Mercedes is calling at least 44.200 euros for this engine-drive combination. Power is plentifully available at 400 Nm, so that the engine encourages comfortable driving. The eight-speed automatic works inconspicuously in the background. You can also give the spurs to the 1,8 tonne GLB. In theory, the standard sprint takes 7,6 seconds, and top speed is reached at 217 km / h. However, the engine does not hold back acoustically under full load. For the most part, we moved the vehicle sensibly at the recommended speed on the autobahn and without chasing on country roads. On average, 6 liters flowed through the pipes, just under one liter more than the standard dictates. Anyone who is serene on the road will probably also be able to cope with the 110 kW / 150 diesel (200d). It is also available with a 4 × 4 drive and is around 3.000 euros cheaper than the 220d.
Sensitive people will miss the possibility of using air suspension to improve the comfort of the chassis with the GLB. After all, thanks to the 19-inch model and the AMG package, our test vehicle passed on bumps in the ground to the occupants fairly unfiltered. Air suspension is only available for the GLC, so there should still be a little space.
You have to dig a little deeper into your pocket for extras
The many references to options that are subject to a surcharge show that the GLB is also a full member of the Mercedes family. Depending on the customers' willingness to invest in extras, there are also navigation systems, LED headlights, matrix lights, sports steering wheels, steering wheel heating, head-up displays, leather or a large assistant package on board. 20.000 euros and more are quickly spent on extras. The upgraded MBUX system alone costs around 3.500 euros. The command center then also consists of two 10,25 inch displays. The driver's display is freely configurable, the right screen is responsible for entertainment and navigation, among other things. But if you don't want to use the slightly fiddly control switch on the steering wheel, you can use the voice control and talk to the lady in the system. She becomes active when she says “Hey, Mercedes”. However, it does not always fulfill requests for destination entry, temperature setting or radio station selection immediately and without asking. You should always talk to the lady in an accentuated way, mumbling is not beneficial in communication. Then you hear “I beg your pardon?” Speech training is at least included in the price.
Technical data
Five-door, five- or seven-seater SUV; Length: 4,63 meters, width: 1,83 meters (width with outside mirrors: 2,02 meters), height: 1,70 meters, wheelbase: 2,83 meters, trunk volume: 570 - 1.805 liters
GLB 220d 4Matic: 2,0-liter diesel; 140 kW / 190 PS, maximum torque: 400 Nm at 1.600 - 2.600 rpm, all-wheel drive, eight-speed DSG, 0-100 km / h: 7,6 s, Vmax: 217 km / h, standard consumption: 5,1 - 5,6 liters / 100 kilometers, CO2 emissions: 135 - 142 g / km, emissions standard: Euro 6d, efficiency class: A, test consumption: 6 liters / 100 kilometers
Price: from € 44.219
In brief
Why looks like an SUV, lots of space
Why not actually a B-Class is enough
What else VW Tiguan Allspace, Skoda Kodiaq, Mercedes B-Class or a GLC
