Auto Nation Group, the official distributor of Mercedes-Benz in the Philippines, is set to debut the first-ever Mercedes-Benz GLB seven-seater crossover SUV this August 18. The newest member of Mercedes-Benz’s luxury SUV line-up slots in between the subcompact GLA and compact five-seater GLC in terms of size and price.
Yes, the GLB might be a smaller SUV than the GLC, but its space-efficient front-wheel-drive (FWD) architecture that’s shared with the GLA, CLA-Class, and A-Class enables it to have seven seats. In case you are not aware, the GLC is rear-wheel-drive (RWD). Whereas the GLA and GLC have a sleeker shape, the GLB is more boxy and upright. This also enables the occupants to have more headroom, even in the third row.
Moving inside, and the relation with the GLA, CLA, and A-Class is evident. The twin-screen layout of the infotainment system and digital gauge cluster is shared between these models. Expect entry-level models to feature a smaller 7-inch screen, while higher-end models should get bigger screens. These screens display the MBUX infotainment system, which is controlled via the touchpad, the touch screen, or by summoning the voice assistant by saying “Hey Mercedes.” Other expected creature comforts could include ARTICO man-made leather, automatic climate control, ambient lighting, cruise control, automatic emergency braking, just to name a few.
Given that the base variants of the A-Class, CLA, and the mechanically-related B-Class all utilize a 1.3-liter inline-4 turbocharged gasoline engine, expect this engine to be offered in the GLB as well. The GLB is also available with other engine choices, such as a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine and a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine in two states of tune. Unsurprisingly, all engines are mated as standard to a 9-speed automatic.
We still have no clue about the final specifications of the Mercedes-Benz GLB. Until then, it’s best to join us on August 18 for the live virtual unveiling of Mercedes-Benz’s upcoming seven-seater compact SUV. We will also be sharing the live launch on our Facebook page.
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