2020 Mercedes AMG GLB 35 Packs 302 HP In Its Compact Boxy Body

The pumped-up variant of the upcoming GLB family has once again crossed paths with our spies who were able to shoot new pictures of the crossover, which we’ve added below along with new information on the powertrain after the introduction of the A-Class-based A35 models. (Update 3/27/2019)

Mercedes continues the development of the high-performance AMG GLB 35 compact SUV, with testing now taking place in warmer climates.

The rugged and more practical sibling of the upcoming Mercedes GLA is getting dialed in with plenty of AMG goodies, including the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrain that debuted in the A35, kicking out 302hp (306PS) and 295lb-ft (400Nm) of torque.

Power will go to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, with the all-wheel drive system being a revised version of that in the previous A45 AMG. A model-specific adaptive suspension and a range of chassis reinforcements will make sure the 2020 AMG GLB 35 offers more agility and sharper responses.

The exterior of the faster GLB will feature a full AMG costume that includes model-specific bumpers -with bigger air intakes at the front-, an AMG front grille, fatter side sills, bigger wheels and dual exhaust tips coming out the rear.

We’ve seen the interior in previous scoops, and it looks pretty much the same with the A-Class hatchback.

This is by no means a bad thing, as the compact Mercedes has been universally praised for its high-tech ambience inside, with highlights to include a minimalist design and Mercedes’ fresh MBUX infotainment system that employs two big digital displays.

We still don’t know if Mercedes will give the GLB the full AMG 45 treatment, which is expected to debut with the A-Class hatchback this year offering over 400hp and a new ‘drift-mode’.

Mercedes is expected to reveal the all-new GLB this summer, with the AMG 35 version to follow shortly after.