New Mercedes GLB Features Conceptual Rugged Looks In Compact Form

Mercedes has revealed the new Concept GLB at the eve of the Shanghai Auto Show, essentially previewing the brand’s new compact SUV which will be positioned as the most practical sibling of the GLA.

As expected, the new Mercedes GLB adopts a chunkier appearance that in its thinly-veiled “concept” form is further aided by the use of fat off-road tires, extra body cladding and a roof rack.

The Concept GLB won’t remain a concept for long, as Mercedes confirmed that the final production version will be revealed this summer.

The new Mercedes SUV measures 4634mm long, 1890mm wide and 1900mm tall and rides on a 2829mm-long wheelbase, offering space for up to seven passengers in its interior. The concept also features LED spotlights above the windshield and 17-inch bi-color wheels.

The interior shares most of its design with the A-Class, featuring the trademark twin-display setup that hosts the brand’s MBUX infotainment system. Since this is a showcar, all interior surfaces are covered by special nappa and nubuk leather  leather in chesnut brown, with orange trim detailing and walnut panels completing the picture.

The third row of seats can be recessed into the luggage compartment in order to create more boot space when not used, with Mercedes claiming that they can offer comfortable seating for two medium-sized occupants.

The second row can be adjusted by 140mm -90mm to the front and 50mm to the rear-, making more space for those in the third row or offering more generous legroom in the GLB’s five-seat configuration.

The Concept GLB is powered by the brand’s M260 turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder petrol engine, paired to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. It produces 221hp (224PS) and 258lb-ft (350Nm) of torque. Power is sent to the permanent all-wheel drive 4Matic system, which can lock its torque-split 50:50 between the axles with the Off-Road mode enabled.

“The Concept GLB is a durable and practical SUV with nonetheless compact dimensions,” said Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler. “Whether it is a generous, seven-seater family vehicle or a versatile leisure time companion: we are certain that this concept will be of great interest to our customers.”