Take everything you know about the latest CLA sedan and make it bigger and boxier. That’s the essence of the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLB, a car that takes the foundations of the CLA and elevates them into the SUV space with a twist—offering both electric and hybrid powertrains, along with room for up to seven passengers. It’s clear that the GLB, Mercedes’ second-smallest SUV, has undergone a transformation, both in terms of design and technology. Let’s dive deeper into what makes this car stand out.
New Platform, New Car: The Heart of the GLB
The 2027 GLB is built on the new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA), a platform that the new CLA sedan also shares. While these two vehicles may look quite different on the outside, underneath they’re almost identical. The GLB, like the CLA, will be offered with electric and hybrid powertrains, including front-, rear-, or all-wheel-drive options.
For the electric version, Mercedes introduces two powertrain options: the rear-drive GLB250+ and the all-wheel-drive GLB350 4Matic. The base rear-drive GLB250+ delivers 268 horsepower and 247 lb-ft of torque, providing an efficient yet snappy driving experience, hitting 60 mph in 7.3 seconds. The more powerful GLB350 4Matic comes with a dual-motor setup, offering 349 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque. It’s quicker, reaching 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds, and offers better traction with its all-wheel drive.
As for the battery, the GLB EV is equipped with an 85-kWh battery that promises an impressive range between 323 and 392 miles on a full charge, according to Mercedes’ estimates. The car’s 800-volt battery can be charged rapidly, adding 162 miles of range in just 10 minutes at a fast charger. This means less time spent at the charging station and more time on the road. The GLB can also charge on older 400-volt chargers, making it more convenient for owners with less advanced home charging setups.
Hybrid Model Coming Later: Power and Efficiency Combined
Following the release of the EV model, the GLB Hybrid will arrive with a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine and an electric motor. This hybrid will combine efficient fuel consumption with a performance-oriented driving experience, boasting 208 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. The hybrid model will also feature an innovative dual-clutch eight-speed automatic transmission, offering a seamless transition between gasoline and electric power. We expect the hybrid GLB to be offered in both front-wheel drive and the 4Matic all-wheel drive.
Off-Road Ready Features for Adventurous Drivers
Mercedes isn’t just offering the GLB as a luxury urban SUV. The all-wheel-drive models come equipped with a “Terrain” driving mode, allowing the car to tackle loose surfaces with ease. For an extra layer of convenience, the GLB offers a “transparent hood” feature when equipped with the optional 360-degree camera system. This feature uses the car’s center screen to show a live feed of the ground beneath the front of the vehicle, providing an extra level of confidence when navigating tricky terrain.
Additionally, adaptive dampers are available on the GLB, improving ride comfort on rougher roads. With 18-, 19-, or 20-inch wheels available, this SUV is ready for a variety of road conditions.
A Spacious Interior: Combining Luxury with Practicality
Inside, the 2027 GLB keeps much of the same elegant design as the CLA. Mercedes has incorporated a large, upright dashboard that houses a 10.25-inch instrument cluster screen and a 14.0-inch center infotainment screen as standard. For an even more futuristic feel, an optional “Super Screen” is available, which adds a 14.0-inch passenger display that can turn off if the driver looks at it for more than 1.3 seconds while driving.
One of the standout features of the GLB is its increased passenger space. Thanks to a 2.4-inch-longer wheelbase, the GLB offers improved legroom in both the first and second rows, making it more comfortable for taller passengers. With a standard panoramic sunroof and an optional Sky Control version that changes from clear to opaque in less than a second, the GLB ensures passengers have a comfortable experience no matter the weather.
And for those who need more space, the GLB offers a third row, increasing its seating capacity to seven. While the third-row seats are best suited for children or smaller adults, the extra capacity makes the GLB a versatile option for families. The cargo space is impressive as well, offering 19.1 cubic feet of space with five seats up, and 17 cubic feet when the third row is folded down. The electric version also features a 4.5-cubic-foot frunk, which is larger than that of the Tesla Model Y.
Pricing and Availability
Although official U.S. pricing hasn’t been released yet, we can make an educated guess based on previous models. The GLB EV (formerly the EQB) is expected to start around $55,000, while the hybrid model should be priced at approximately $48,000. With its new features, more spacious interior, and dual powertrain options, the 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLB promises to be a compelling choice for those looking for a versatile and luxury-packed SUV.
Conclusion
The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLB brings together the best of both worlds—a stylish, compact SUV with plenty of space, impressive range, and innovative technology. Whether you choose the electric or hybrid version, the GLB promises to offer luxury, efficiency, and the practicality of a seven-seater SUV. With the GLB’s new design, advanced features, and off-road capabilities, Mercedes is set to make a major statement in the luxury SUV market.
