Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 Packs Seven Seats And 302 HP

Hot on the heels of the unveiling of the GLE 53 Coupe, Mercedes-AMG has taken the wraps off the all-new GLB 35.

Set to debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show next month, the GLB 35 is a high-performance seven-seater that features a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops 302 hp (225 kW / 306 PS) and 295 lb-ft (400 Nm) of torque.

The engine is connected to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which sends power to an AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system. This setup enables the crossover to rocket from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) in 5.2 seconds, before hitting a limited top speed of 155 mph (250 km/h).

The performance tweaks don’t stop there as the crossover has been outfitted with an AMG-tuned suspension that produces less body roll and allows for higher cornering speeds.  The changes sound rather extensive as Mercedes said the GLB 35 has new “steering knuckles and transverse control arms at the front axle, as well as the model-specific subframe and the wheel carriers at the rear axle.”

Elsewhere, engineers installed a speed-sensitive power steering system with a variable ratio that promises the “best possible control” at high speeds.  The model has also been equipped with a high-performance braking system that features silver calipers with black AMG lettering.  They grab on to 13.8-inch (350 mm) cast iron discs up front and 13-inch (330 mm) discs out back.

Sporty Styling Inside And Out

In typical fashion, the model has been given a sporty makeover as part of the AMG conversion.  For starters, the GLB has been outfitted with the AMG Line styling package and a new Panamericana grille.  The model also sports a metallic front splitter, a prominent diffuser and a dual exhaust system.  Other highlights include an extended rear spoiler and 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels.

An assortment of options will be available including an AMG Night package which features high-gloss black accents and black chrome trim.  Customers can also order an assortment of wheels ranging in sizes from 19- to 21-inches.

The cabin largely echoes the rest of the 35 lineup and drivers will find Artico / Dinamica microfiber sports seats with red contrast stitching.  There’s also a digital instrument cluster, an MBUX infotainment system and a nappa leather sports steering wheel.

Among the options are a third row seat, an AMG Performance steering wheel and two leather packages. The latter allow the model to be equipped with two-tone leather seats in a variety of combinations such as black and red.

Mercedes wasn’t ready to talk pricing, but the company confirmed the GLB 35 will arrive in the United States by late 2020.