A first look at the Mercedes GLB EQ

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No matter how you look at it: A restart of the e-car strategy at Mercedes was overdue. The fact that the energy content and charging power had to be reduced for some of the existing EQA and EQB models in the summer of 2025 was just the sad conclusion. However, the restart, initiated with the CLA EQ and GLC EQ, promises a fundamental turn for the better. Mercedes already gave a first glimpse of the upcoming GLB EQ in a frosty environment.

No Surprise

The exterior design was still under a thick layer of ice at this event. Although almost all tests have already been completed so close to the official premiere, those responsible did not want to reveal everything yet. What can already be seen: As with the GLC EQ, there is no revolution in design. Mercedes is giving the new beginning a conservative touch. The current EQB is 4.68 m long; its successor will exceed this with around 4.8 m. As before, the new GLB will also be available as a seven-seater in the future. So far, Mercedes has charged a good price for this, with an additional cost of almost 1000 euros.

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Mercedes GLB Exterior (5 Bilder)

Always with a Glass Roof

The interior design will also not surprise anyone. Mercedes is probably revealing it now for this reason, among others. Essentially, it shows the dashboard that is already familiar from the CLA EQ. Here and there, the full number of displays shown in the first press images will likely only be available for an additional charge. In any case, the MB.OS operating system is installed, which is now being rolled out across the entire model range. We expect it, for example, as part of the C-Class facelift, which is scheduled for next year. The issue with the glass roof is not yet clarified. In the GLC EQ, it is standard; shading at the touch of a button or illumination with small stars costs extra. It can never be opened. Mercedes may proceed in the same way with the GLB EQ.

Quickly Filled

However, the model change brings a huge step forward, especially in terms of drive and charging power. The preliminary base model already has 200 kW and an 85 kWh traction battery, which is also standard in the all-wheel-drive model with 260 kW motor power. The maximum charging power is 320 kW. The 70 percent charge from 10 to 80 percent should be refilled in 22 minutes. This corresponds to an average net charging power of around 162 kW. Mercedes specifies the maximum range in WLTP as "up to 700 km".

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Mercedes-Benz GLB Interior (3 Bilder)

We expect that eventually the slightly smaller configured electric powertrain from the CLA EQ 200 will also find its way into the GLB EQ. It delivers 165 kW, and the battery offers an energy content of 58 kWh. Its maximum charging power is 200 kW. Charging from 10 to 80 percent takes 20 minutes, resulting in an average net charging power of just under 122 kW. With alternating current, both can be charged at up to 22 kW for an additional charge. Mercedes leaves it at 11 kW as standard. As in the CLA, Mercedes will also offer the next GLB with 48-volt hybrid drives. Three power levels are planned with 100, 120, and 140 kW, each with a starter generator with 22 kW.

Delivery from Spring 2026

The official presentation of the GLB is expected in December, with deliveries to begin in spring 2026. There are no statements on the price yet, only a few rough estimates of where it might go. The current Mercedes GLB with an internal combustion engine is officially offered from around 44,000 euros, the EQB with an electric drive from just under 48,000 euros. The successor will hardly be available for less. On the other hand, the GLC EQ limits the matter at the upper end. The GLC 400 EQ, positioned quite high in the upcoming model hierarchy, is available from 71,281 euros, although Mercedes already offers the first discount in the configurator. Since the GLB EQ is to be positioned below this model, it will likely be less expensive, which is not to be equated with affordable. But no one at Mercedes probably expected that seriously.

(mfz)