Mercedes-Benz has introduced the all-new GLB, a compact SUV designed to expand the automaker’s electric portfolio. Scheduled for a market launch in the spring of 2026, the vehicle will be available in both five- and seven-seat configurations.
The new model integrates an 800-volt electric architecture and the proprietary MB.OS operating system, marking a significant technical shift for the brand’s entry-luxury segment.
Highlights
- Range: The GLB 250+ achieves a range of up to 631 km (WLTP).
- Charging: High-power DC charging up to 320 kW adds 260 km of range in 10 minutes.
- Utility: Features a 127-liter frunk and a towing capacity of up to two tonnes.
- Performance: Two-speed transmission on the rear axle optimizes acceleration and highway efficiency.
Powertrain and Performance Specifications
The electric GLB will launch with two primary variants: the GLB 250+ and the GLB 350 4MATIC. Both models utilize a lithium-ion battery with a usable energy capacity of 85 kWh.
The rear-wheel-drive GLB 250+ produces 200 kW of power and offers the highest range in the lineup at 631 km (WLTP). The GLB 350 4MATIC serves as the top-tier model, delivering 260 kW of peak output.
Mercedes-Benz developed the rear electric drive unit in-house, achieving a battery-to-wheel efficiency of 93 percent. This unit features a permanently excited synchronous motor (PSM) and a silicon carbide (SiC) inverter.
A key engineering feature is the two-speed transmission on the rear axle. The first gear uses a ratio of 11:1 for acceleration and towing, while the second gear uses a 5:1 ratio for high-speed efficiency.
The 4MATIC all-wheel-drive version includes an 80-kW drive unit on the front axle equipped with a Disconnect Unit (DCU). The DCU decouples the front motor under low loads to reduce drag losses by up to 90 percent.
Charging Capabilities and Infrastructure
The GLB utilizes an 800-volt architecture, allowing for rapid energy replenishment. The vehicle supports DC fast charging with a capacity of up to 320 kW.
Under optimal conditions, the system can recover up to 260 km of range (WLTP) in 10 minutes. For AC charging, the vehicle supports up to 22 kW.
The vehicle is also equipped for bidirectional charging. This functionality enables Vehicle-to-Home (V2H) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) capabilities, allowing the car to serve as a temporary energy storage unit.
Interior Dimensions and Utility
The new GLB offers increased interior space compared to its predecessor, with a wheelbase that has expanded by 60 millimeters to 2,889 millimeters.
This dimensions update results in 68 millimeters of additional legroom for second-row passengers. The optional third row can accommodate passengers up to 1.71 meters tall.
Cargo capacity is a focal point of the design. The vehicle features the largest front trunk (“frunk”) in its model family, offering 127 liters of storage.
The rear boot provides varying capacities based on seat configuration:
- Five-seater: Up to 540 liters, expanding to 1,715 liters with seats folded.
- Seven-seater: Up to 480 liters, expanding to 1,605 liters with seats folded.
- Towing: The electric GLB is rated to tow up to two tonnes.
Software and Driver Assistance
The GLB operates on the new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), which decouples hardware from software to facilitate regular over-the-air updates.
The infotainment system features the optional MBUX Superscreen, combining a 10.25-inch driver display and a 14-inch central display. The system integrates Google Maps and utilizes AI for navigation and voice assistance.
Safety systems are bundled under the MB.DRIVE brand. Standard hardware for the European market includes:
- Sensors: Five radar sensors and 12 ultrasonic sensors.
- Cameras: Eight cameras for 360-degree monitoring.
- Computing: A water-cooled high-performance computer.
Advanced features include a “Transparent Bonnet” for off-road maneuvering and automated lane change capabilities.
Future Hybrid Availability
Following the launch of the electric models, Mercedes-Benz will expand the lineup to include hybrid variants. These models will feature 48-volt technology and an electric motor integrated into the transmission.
The hybrids will utilize a new 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine (M 252) from the FAME engine family. This combustion engine operates on the Miller cycle with a compression ratio of 12:1 to maximize partial-load efficiency.
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