The all-new (2020) Mercedes Benz GLB, premiering in the Philippines this week, is the epitome of roominess and luxury. Slotting into the narrow space between the German luxury automaker’s other compact SUVs, the GLA-Class and the GLC-Class, the all-new GLB has one advantage: it has the option for seven-seat flexibility.
The all-new GLB is the 8th model in Mercedes Benz’s highly successful MFA (Modular Front Architecture). Combining all the best factors from the former models, engineers and designers were able to develop the first 7-seater in the Mercedes-Benz compact SUV family, one that is longer than the GLA-Class by almost 13cm and just about 4cm shorter than the GLC-Class. It has a long wheelbase of 2.829m.
Unlike many luxury compact SUVs that come with sleek profiles, the all-new GLB has a more boxy and rugged design, reminiscent of its G-Class big brother.
It is powered by an advanced and more efficient 1.3-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 163hp. With all 339 Nm of torque on tap from just 1,520 rpm, one gets a quick response off the line, and for passing, merging and climbing.
Should one want to get a different level of driving experience, the all-new GLB features DYNAMIC SELECT that offers different drive programs with setting options for the engine, transmission, chassis and steering. In “Sport” mode the vehicle is more dynamic and in basic “Comfort” mode its setup is very balanced. “ECO”, on the other hand, places the emphasis on maximum efficiency and fuel savings.
P3.79 million introductory price
The P3.79 million (introductory price) all-new GLB comes equipped with a standard LED dynamic headlights. It can be dressed in sportier apparel through the AMG Line Package, with 19-inch 5 twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, side skirts painted in body color, polished aluminium roof rails and AMG Body Styling.
As the first compact vehicle of Mercedes-Benz that offers a third row, the two additional third seats are perfect for growing families. It also offers an extensive array of safety features that include retractable headrests, seat belts with belt tensioners, and a side window airbag, which also protects the passengers in the third seat row. Additionally, the all-new GLB supplies ISOFIX and TOP-Tether anchorages for suitable child seats, and these can be used to attach up to four child seats in the rear.
All seats are wrapped with luxurious Black Artico Dinamica microfibers.
In addition, the all-new GLB comes with Adaptive brake lights flashing and the Brake Assist that provides automatic recognition of emergency braking situations. Parking is also made convenient with the Parking Package. It comes with a reversing camera and Active Parking Assist to help the driver find suitable parking spaces.
Innovations
The all-new GLB offers an array of modern technology. The intuitive Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) is the driver’s own in-car personal assistant. Apart from voice commands, the MBUX can quietly respond using a 7-inch standard central touchscreen that is also controlled by touchpad on the center console, steering wheel controls and natural-language commands.
Smartphone Integration merges the mobile phone with the infotainment system via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This gives convenient access to the most important applications on the smartphone. One can also use apps from third-party service providers such as Spotify quickly and easily.
The all-new GLB is available at all Mercedes-Benz dealerships. Visit the showroom at Edsa Greenhills, Bonifacio Global City, Alabang and Cebu City to check the unit. Or one may visit www.mercedes-benz.ph/GLB for more information.
