Mercedes-Benz GLB arrives in Australia
Mercedes-Benz has started selling the second-generation GLB in Australia, with a range of four models that include petrol and electric variants. The GLB 200 is the entry-level model, priced at $65,400 plus on-road costs, which is $2900 less than the previous model.
The GLB 220 4Matic is priced at $76,100 plus on-road costs, while the GLB 250+ electric variant is priced at $74,990 plus on-road costs.
Features and Specifications
All four variants of the GLB come with seven-seat capacity as standard. The new GLB-Class is built on the MMA platform, which is also used by the latest CLA. The wheelbase of the GLB has been increased by 60mm to 2889mm, which has resulted in more legroom in the second row.
The GLB also features a sliding second-row bench, which allows for adjustable passenger and cargo space. The cabin can accommodate up to five child seats, and the boot space is rated at 480 litres with the third row stowed. With both rear rows folded, the boot space increases to 1605 litres.
The electric variants of the GLB also come with a 127-litre front storage compartment. A panoramic glass roof is standard across the range, and the GLB features a range of driver-assist technologies, including adaptive cruise, AEB, and blind-spot monitoring.
Power and Performance
The GLB 200 and GLB 220 4Matic are powered by a new turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with 48-volt mild-hybrid assistance. The engine produces 120kW/250Nm in the GLB 200, while the GLB 220 4Matic produces 140kW/300Nm. Notably, the GLB 200 makes 120kW/250Nm from its engine alone, with up to 22kW/200Nm available from the electric motor, and a claimed 0-100km/h time of 8.7 seconds.
The GLB 250+ and GLB 350 4Matic are electric variants that share an 85kWh (usable) NMC battery on an 800-volt architecture. The GLB 250+ produces 200kW/335Nm, while the GLB 350 4Matic produces 260kW/515Nm. Mercedes-Benz also notes that the mild-hybrid system in the petrol variants can drive the GLB on electric power alone at low speeds when demand is under 22kW.
Mercedes-Benz claims that the electric variants can add up to 260km of WLTP range in a 10-minute charge under ideal conditions. The GLB 250+ has a claimed WLTP range of up to 570km, while the GLB 350 4Matic has a claimed WLTP range of up to 554km.
Interior and Technology
The GLB features the latest MB.OS software and the fourth-generation MBUX system. The interior comes with a 10.25-inch instrument cluster and a 14.0-inch central touchscreen as standard. An optional MBUX Superscreen adds a third 14.0-inch display for the front passenger.
The updated MBUX Virtual Assistant uses generative AI from multiple providers, and navigation now runs on Google Maps. The GLB also features physical switchgear for key functions, including a steering wheel rocker switch for adaptive cruise and speed limiter functions.
Standard equipment on the GLB 200 includes 19-inch alloys, panoramic roof, heated and powered front seats with memory, and a 360-degree camera. The GLB 220 4Matic and both electric variants come with the AMG Line package as standard, which includes 20-inch alloys and adaptive damping.
A $4000 Premium Plus Package is available, which adds the MBUX Superscreen, Burmester 3D sound, and upgraded LED headlights. The new GLB has not yet been crash-tested by ANCAP or Euro NCAP, and warranty coverage runs to five years/unlimited kilometres, with electric variants adding an eight-year/160,000km battery warranty. Service pricing has not yet been released, and 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB pricing is detailed, with all prices excluding on-road costs.
