[Focus] Ideal meets reality, Mercedes-Benz The New GLB

Mercedes-Benz The New GLB has been upgraded with new interior trim options, a second-generation MBUX infotainment system and the latest safety and comfort features. The stable handling and smooth ride remain the hallmarks of the three-speed. "The New GLB is the most realistic and ideal answer for a first family SUV," emphasises Mercedes-Benz Korea.

Written by Ki-beom Kim, Editor-in-Chief (ceo@roadtest.kr)
Photo Mercedes-Benz AG

The GLB is a compact SUV from Mercedes-Benz. It made its global debut in June 2019 under the development name 'X247'. It sits between the GLA and GLC in the lineage of the three-banger SUVs. In Korea, it was introduced in September 2020 and sold 1,605 units in the first three months of its launch, outperforming rivals in its segment. Since December last year, the facelifted 2024 The New GLB has been on sale.

After a makeover three years after its launch, the new GLB looks tougher thanks to a new front bumper. The appearance is differentiated by the radiator grille, bumper and wheels and tyres of each trim. The New GLB 200 d is refreshing with its progressive lines, while the New GLB 250 4Matic is sporty with its AMG lines. The new Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic is dynamic and hints at high performance.

Fixing make-up, enhancing comfort and safety equipment

The interior of The New GLB comes standard with a generous sense of space, a stand-alone double screen and a state-of-the-art multi-function steering wheel. There are also three trims to choose from: 'Star Pattern Back Luminous Trim', which creates a mysterious atmosphere, 'Star Pattern Trim Elements', which has a weighty feel, and 'Carbon Structure Trim', which emphasises the luxury of the pattern. The 'Black Open Pore Wood Linden Trim' is a paid option (KRW 540,000).

The sophisticated design of the LED high-performance headlamp ensures safe driving with a wide and long illumination range. They are also highly energy efficient. 'Adaptive High Beam Assist', which automatically switches between high and low beams based on the surrounding environment, is also standard. This ensures that your vision is as bright as possible while minimising glare from oncoming or oncoming drivers, even on dark roads without street lighting.

Amenities abound. Examples include the Mirror Package, which features anti-glare protection for both the mirrors and electrically folding side mirrors; a panoramic sunroof that opens up to the outside; a toll payment system that displays the amount and balance of your High Pass payment on a central display; the Winter Package, which includes heating for the steering wheel, front seats and windscreen; the Air Quality Package; the Keyless Go Package; and hands-free access.

The New GLB also comes with the latest safety features as standard across the range. These include Active Distance Assist Dynamic, which maintains a distance between the vehicle in front of you and automatically adjusts speed, brakes and starts the vehicle, and Pre-Safe®, a state-of-the-art driving assistance system that detects hazards before they occur and minimises damage to occupants.

The update also enhances digital convenience with the second-generation MBUX infotainment system and NTG7 telematics, resulting in a range of features as standard, including an AI-powered 'zero-layer' interface that intelligently assists the driver, and a 'smartphone integration package' that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Details of each model are as follows

■The New GLB 200 d

The grille is decorated with four horizontal bars and three spigots. The bumper design is also the simplest. It rides on 18-inch, five-twin-spoke lightweight alloy wheels, with front-wheel roll and five seats. It is powered by a 150-hp in-line four-cylinder diesel turbocharged engine mated to a dual-clutch automatic eight-speed (8-G DCT) transmission. Acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h is 9.2 seconds, top speed is 204 km/h, and fuel consumption is 14.2 km/L (combined). It is priced at £62.1 million.

■The new GLB 250 4Matic

AMG lines are standard, with a radiator grille adorned with a triangular star logo and single-strand horizontal bar, and 19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels. Powering all four wheels is a 2.0-litre 224-horsepower petrol engine mated to an eight-speed automatic (8-G DCT) transmission. It has a 0-62 mph acceleration time of 7 seconds, a top speed of 236 mph, and a fuel consumption of 10.5 km/L (combined). It's priced at £69.8 million.

■The new Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC

It is distinguished by a new front apron, 19-inch AMG five-twin-spoke lightweight alloy wheels, AMG performance steering wheel and AMG Ride Control. It is powered by a 306-horsepower inline-four 2.0-litre petrol turbocharged engine paired with a 48-volt mild hybrid and AMG Speedshift 8-speed gearbox. It has a 0-62mph acceleration time of 5.5 seconds, a top speed of 250km/h and a fuel consumption of 9.5mpg (combined). It is priced at £77.1 million.