A Compact SUV Built for Practical Results
Mercedes-Benz pushes its compact SUV line with the 2026 GLB. The company focuses on three outcomes: more range, more space, and more digital capability. The result targets drivers who want clear gains in daily use and long-distance travel. The GLB now supports up to 631 km WLTP range, seats up to seven, and adds an expanded set of MBUX and MB.OS functions. The updates apply across the new GLB 250+ and GLB 350 4MATIC, both using EQ Technology.
Prices in Germany start at $64,200 USD for the GLB 250+ and $67,600 USD for the 350 4MATIC, based on the listed Euro values in the press file.
Powertrain, Charging, and Range
The new GLB focuses on usable performance. Both electric models use an 85-kWh battery and an 800-volt architecture. The layout cuts charging time and increases efficiency at highway speeds.
Key performance metrics:
- GLB 250+: 200 kW output, up to 631 km WLTP.
- GLB 350 4MATIC: 260 kW output, up to 614 km WLTP.
- DC fast charging adds up to 260 km in 10 minutes.
- Maximum DC rate: 320 kW.
- AC charging: up to 22 kW.
The rear-motor design delivers 93% drivetrain efficiency. A two-speed transmission adds stronger low-speed pull and maintains highway range. The 4MATIC model includes a front motor that connects only when needed, improving efficiency during steady cruising.
Space, Seating, and Utility
Mercedes-Benz expands the GLB's role as a utility tool. The new body grows by up to 98 mm compared with the previous GLB and adds more space in the cabin and cargo areas.
Key interior numbers (from the full technical table on page 9):
- Wheelbase: 2,889 mm (+60 mm).
- Maximum headroom in first row: 1,070 mm (+35 mm).
- Headroom second row: 1,026 mm (+64 mm).
- Cargo volume: 540 L (five-seat) or 480 L (seven-seat).
- Max cargo with second row folded: 1,715 L.
- Frunk capacity: 127 L, the largest in its model family.
The second row moves 140 mm fore and aft. The third row supports passengers up to 1.71 m tall. Four child-seat anchor points spread across rows two and three.
Off-Road and Towing Capability
The GLB 350 4MATIC includes TERRAIN MODE. The function adjusts throttle response, steering, and braking for loose surfaces. A Transparent Hood feature, using the camera system, displays the ground ahead, helping the driver place the wheels accurately at low speeds.
The towing limit reaches 2,000 kg, placing the GLB near the top of its segment for battery-electric SUVs. A 100-kg tongue weight supports heavier bike carriers.
Digital Systems and Software
The GLB introduces the latest MB.OS and fourth-generation MBUX. Mercedes-Benz moves more functions to cloud-connected processing and adds new AI-driven features.
Key digital functions include:
- MBUX Superscreen option: three continuous displays under a single glass panel.
- MBUX Virtual Assistant, powered by ChatGPT4o, Google Gemini, and Bing search data.
- Google Maps–based navigation with integrated 3D Surround Navigation.
- Over-the-air updates for new driver assistance functions.
- Reconfigurable app layout with folders and a revised Zero Layer interface.
MB.OS allows the GLB to run multiple AI agents simultaneously, a capability still rare in the market.
Driver Assistance and Safety Tools
Mercedes-Benz builds the GLB with a stronger safety structure and a new suite of assistance tools under MB.DRIVE.
Hardware package includes:
- Eight cameras.
- Five radar units.
- Twelve ultrasonic sensors.
- A liquid-cooled high-performance computer for future feature updates.
Available systems:
- MB.DRIVE ASSIST: adds steering assist and lane-change assist.
- MB.DRIVE ASSIST PLUS: extended automation for highway lane changes (market-dependent).
- MB.DRIVE ASSIST PRO: urban-focused advanced functions.
- MB.DRIVE PARKING ASSIST and 360-degree Parking Assist.
Safety additions include a center airbag, four child-seat mounts, and a reinforced side structure. The high-voltage battery uses multiple containment layers and can shut down automatically in staged levels after a crash.
Climate, Comfort, and Energy Efficiency
A new heat pump from the VISION EQXX program cuts energy use during cold-weather operation. Mercedes-Benz states the GLB warms the cabin twice as fast as its predecessor while using half the energy. The defrost process clears the windshield in 15 minutes at -15°C.
The VISION CONTROL wiper system sprays fluid directly into the blade path to keep sensors and the windshield clear.
