Every third sold Mercedes is a SUV. No wonder, with six models in the range, plus Coupé variants and Maybach GLS. Yes, the G is still a real SUV, we already know that. Which brings us to the GLB. It is sometimes referred to as the small G, and its boxy shape contrasts favorably with the usual, round flowing SUV-forms. The new GLB stretches his nose mightily into the Wind, has an almost straight sloping stern and rewards its passengers with a class a very good offer of space.

Boris Schmidt

editor in the Department “technology and Motor”.

F. A. Z.

Although the base is the same as for the smaller GLA, but the wheelbase has been stretched to 2.83 metres. Thus, the total length of 4.63 metres is described as a compact, and it is only three inches to 2015, launched in GLC, the renewed in the near future and then certainly greater will be missing. The GLA measures in length was 4.42 meters.

In any case, no one needs in the GLB out of place to complain, the rear bench is optional to 14 inches is slidable, the rear bench can sit eight-way adjustment. Stately 570 up to a maximum of 1805 litres the boot volume, and surcharge of 1309 Euro, even a third-row seat is installed, not the car but in the test was available. Something the trunk suffers then the volume, without the third row, a relatively large storage compartment in the rear floor still. The door swings far enough upward, it does so electrically, optionally, also on command from the distance.

For novices is always unusual

The command center at the front of the car is in the style of the new Mercedes-MBUX-time. It is dominated by a twice-10,25-inch flat screen that is a single unit, but divided into two areas. On the right is the navigation and entertainment Department, directly in the driver’s field of vision, the instrument unit with a virtually presented Analog instruments. Various configurations are possible, as is common today. The entire valve unit with the three large air vents prominently placed, rounds of Air in the middle, the future looks very promising, can already like a lot. The steering Wheel is height-and Width-adjustable so that everyone should find a suitable Position on the comfortable Seats. For novices, always unusual, the gear selector lever for the eight-speed automatic to the steering column. Some want to operate the windshield wipers, and instead of the idle.

The entire interior in the GLB seems high quality, however, the test car is an Edition 1, the premium for 8816 Euro includes 20-inch wheels, and a beautiful brown leather interior. The recommended panoramic roof (1357 Euro) allows plenty of light into the car. Who opens it, has to expect at higher speeds, however, with a powerful roar.

Both models have only front-wheel drive

it’s not the GLB, is a Plug-in Hybrid variant. This is with the platform you don’t agree. Six engines are available, three Diesel and three petrol engines. All are four-cylinder, who wants a six-pots, must pick up the GLC. The 200 as a beginner for 37 746 Euro has only 1.3 liters and 163 HP. This could be for the 1.7-ton car, and higher claims but little. As a Diesel in the 180d, there are only 116 HP, two-Liter displacement and a maximum torque of 280 Newton metres instead of 250 will feel fuller. Both models have only front-wheel drive.