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Introducing the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB

This compact utility vehicle could be just the right size for all but those seated in the third row
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Nearly every mainstream automaker sells an ever-increasing assortment of utility vehicles B次元官网网址 crossovers, if you will B次元官网网址 of varying shapes, sizes and capacities. For Mercedes-Benz, its most recent addition is the GLB Class that arrived in late 2019 as a 2020 model.

The GLB Class is one of six such utilities to wear the three-pointed star. ItB次元官网网址檚 about 13 centimetres longer than the GLA (the smallest in the M-B-range), and less than five centimetres shorter than the next-largest GLC (which cannot be ordered with a third row). The GLE-, GLS- and G-class models round out the grouping.

The GLBB次元官网网址檚 stout wagon-like appearance belies the fact that itB次元官网网址檚 built off the compact Mercedes-Benz A-class front-wheel-drive car platform. The blunt-edge front end and the tall, squared-off roofline gives it an off-road-capable appearance, however it falls far short of the extra-rugged G Class in rugged terrain mastery.

Surprisingly, despite its compact dimensions, the GLB can be ordered with a third-row seat, complete with two cupholders plus a couple of outboard storage compartments and one USB port.

To make sufficient space for two more passengers in a third row, the available second-row bench slides up to 15 centimetres (it also adjusts in the two-row GLBs) and the seatback can be angled in a more upright position. Note that placing anyone larger than junior-size in the back will be a tight squeeze upon entry and exit, and the cargo zone behind is expectedly small. For adult-size riders, you should probably consider using the bench for occasional or emergency seating only.

To get the most space out of the relatively small design, the GLB naturally has a squarer appearance. In particular, the rear hatch needs to be as vertical is possible for third-row passenger headroom and cargo space behind the seat. PHOTO: MERCEDES-BENZ
The split-folding 40:20:40 second row and 60:40 third row can each be partially or completely folded flat for stowing bulky items.

The GLBB次元官网网址檚 front-seat passengers have a full view of an instrument panel thatB次元官网网址檚 nearly identical to that found in the A-class cars. It comes with two adjoining seven-inch or optional 10.3-inch configurable touch-screens with the latest Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) voice-activated system. By speaking B次元官网网址淗ey MercedesB次元官网网址 aloud, a disembodied voice acts on your requests to B次元官网网址 among others B次元官网网址 change radio channels, connect with your phoneB次元官网网址檚 contacts, or search for the nearest gas stations or restaurants.

The powertrain in the base GLB 250 is a turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder that puts out 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Added for 2021, the AMG GLB 35 comes with a hotter version of the turbo 2.0 that delivers 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet.

Both receive an eight-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters.

Base turbo fuel economy is rated at 10.2 l/100 km in the city, 7.5 on the highway and 9.0 combined.

According to Mercedes-Benz, the 2.0 will propel the GLB to 60 mph (96 km/h) from rest in 6.9 seconds (5.1 for the AMG).

Both GLB models come with 4Matic all-wheel-drive. The system varies the front-to-rear torque split depending on the mode selected. In Eco and Comfort, the front-to-rear split is 80:20. ItB次元官网网址檚 70:30 in Sport and 50:50 in Off-Road.

The base five-passenger GLB 250 starts at $48,600, including destination fees. Optional features include an adaptive suspension and an AMG styling kit with a unique grille, bumpers and wheels. A full range of active and semi-autonomous driving technologies, including emergency braking and lane-keeping assist is also extra.

The AMG GLB 35 rings in at $59,700 and comes with the adaptive suspension, a sport exhaust system and performance brakes.

Extra for both GLB models is a full range of active and semi-autonomous driving technologies, including emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.

When considering overall design, content and price, the GLB Class models would appear to offer Mercedes-Benz buyers sufficient choices in passenger accommodations and performance in a relatively affordable package.

The optional dash layout with larger screens uses the latest MBUX interface with voice-command tech. Just say Hey Mercedes to begin your instructions. PHOTO: MERCEDES-BENZ

What you should know: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB Class

Type: Four-door, all-wheel-drive compact utility vehicle

Engine (h.p.): 2.0-litre I-4, turbocharged (221/302)

Transmission: Eight-speed automatic with paddle shifters

Market position: The premium-compact-utility-vehicle segment is becoming increasingly popular (and competitive) as more buyers are indicating a preference for these models over similarly upscale sedans.

Points: Squared-off body provides at least the appearance of off-road ruggedness. B次元官网网址 Modern dashboard and control panel adds to the premium-look interior. B次元官网网址 The base turbo four-cylinder engine has reasonable performance, but the AMG version delivers significantly more punch. B次元官网网址 Third-row-seating option is ideal for small children, but not so much for adults.

Active safety: Blind-spot warning with cross-traffic backup alert (opt.); active cruise control (opt.); emergency braking (opt.); lane-departure warning (opt.)

L/100 km (city/hwy): 10.2/7.5

Base price (incl. destination): $48,600

BY COMPARISON

Audi Q3

  • Base price: $39,550
  • Strictly five-passenger model comes with a turbo 228-h.p. I-4. AWD is standard.

Cadillac XT4 AWD

  • Base price: $41,800
  • Compact utility model is stylish and reasonably priced. AWD is optional.

Lexus NX

  • Base price: $46,700
  • Well-equipped with most active-safety tech; hybrid model available, AWD std.


About the Author: Black Press Media Staff

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