As you might remember, Mercedes-Benz added the first-ever GLB to its portfolio in mid-2019, which seemed like an unnecessary addition, but if you think again, offering more options is good for both manufacturers and end users; just ask MSIL or Kia India or MG Motor India—if you need validation. Although the GLB is a fairly new product, it needs to be refreshed quite often and remind people that they have this option as well. And so, along with the GLA, the GLB too has received its facelift.
Speaking of which, as is the case with GLC and GLA facelifts, styling revisions have been kept subtle here, and come in the form of new LED headlights, new LED taillights, new wheel designs, and of course, a new Spectral Blue Metallic paint. The external shape of the headlights and taillights remain the same, it’s the internal detailing that is different. The base model rides on 17-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels in high-gloss black with high-gloss turned surfaces. However, up to 20-inch wheels can be found in the options list.
It’s the same formula as the GLA on the inside; you get a 7-inch driver display and a 10.25-inch central touchscreen as standard, while a 10.25-inch display for the former is optionally available. The MBUX is updated with the latest software, of course. For the first time, a heated steering wheel rim is also available with the AMG Line. Leather-wrapped steering is standard, while Artico (man-made leather) is an optional extra.
Artico-upholstered comfort seats come standard, and if you opt for the AMG Line, the Artico-microfibre upholstery is now also available in bahia brown color. The fabric of the comfort seats is apparently made of 100% recycled materials, and in the case of the Artico-microfibre upholstery, this proportion is 65% in the seat centre and 85% in the bottom fabric.
The basic equipment also includes Highbeam Assist, a backup camera and the USB package. From the Progressive trim onwards, buyers also get the Parking Package and the Mirror Package.
As for the safety stuff, the upgraded Driving Assistance package apparently enables more comfortable control of the Lane Keeping Assist through the Active Steering Control. The next-gen Parking package also supports longitudinal parking. And it offers a 360-degree visualization. The Trailer Manoeuvring Assist is also available for the GLA for the first time. The prerequisite is the trailer hitch with ESP trailer stabilization in conjunction with the Parking Package with a 360-degree camera.
Moving on to the juicy bits of the story, you get mild-hybrid petrol and regular diesel powertrains to choose from. No PHEV here (yet).
Petrol
The petrol options include GLB 180 (1.33L; 100 kW/136 metric hp, 230 Nm/170 lb-ft), GLB 200 (1.33L; 120 kW/163 metric hp, 270 Nm/199 lb-ft), GLB 220 4Matic (2.0L; 140 kW/190 metric hp, 300 Nm/221 lb-ft) and GLB 250 4Matic (2.0L; 165 kW/224 metric hp, 350 Nm/258 lb-ft); all of which are combined with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system that offers a 10 kW (14 metric hp) of additional power boost.
Diesel
Diesel options include GLB 180 d (2.0L; 85 kW/116 metric hp, 280 Nm/206 lb-ft), GLB 200 d (2.0L; 110 kW/150 metric hp, 320 Nm/236 lb-ft), GLB 200 d 4Matic (2.0L; 110 kW/150 metric hp, 320 Nm/236 lb-ft), GLB 220 d 4Matic (2.0L; 140 kW/190 metric hp, 400 Nm/295 lb-ft).
Depending on the variant, transmission is gonna be either a 7- or an 8-speed DCT.
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