MERCEDES-BENZ

MB GLB 200 4MATIC: gasoline engine, auxiliary electric motor, and all-wheel drive, for €57,588

While everyone is talking about the new electric Mercedes GLB, we’ve already checked out the GLB 200 4MATIC version—featuring a gasoline engine, electric assistance, and all-wheel drive—which will undoubtedly sell much better in Spain. Forget the headlines about range and fast charging; this is a classic SUV, albeit a thoroughly modern one.

The new GLB is built on the MMA modular platform—the same one used for the CLA—and has grown by about six centimeters compared to its predecessor, reaching a length of nearly 4.73 meters. The brand decided to group the electric versions (replacing the old EQB) and this partially electrified gasoline variant under the same name; this means that, from now on, it is essential to pay close attention to the specific model name when comparing prices and performance. On paper, the GLB competes with rivals as diverse as the Audi Q5, BMW iX3, and Lexus NX—a mix of combustion, hybrid, and electric vehicles that clearly demonstrates the extent of diversification in this segment.

From the outside, the front end is the kind that catches the eye of someone relaxing at a café terrace, featuring that massive vertical grille we already know from the CLA. However, the car we tested came with the illuminated grille featuring the Mercedes-Benz chrome pattern; this is a standard feature that adds extra flair at night. Incidentally, the white paint on our test car costs an extra €383, so if you want that specific shade, it’s worth keeping that in mind.

Inside, the dashboard follows the design language of the rest of the current Mercedes lineup, with screens everywhere (actually three of them, spanning almost the entire width of the dash) and very few physical buttons. The drive mode selector is one of them, but controlling the air conditioning functions requires using the central touchscreen. The upholstery in the car we tested is a blend of synthetic leather and fabric; it feels pleasant to the touch, even if it isn't particularly luxurious. A panoramic sunroof comes standard on this version, though it is worth noting that it lacks a sunshade. It claims to filter out UVA rays—a function it performs well so far—but heat still makes its way in on scorching, sunny days, forcing the driver to turn up the air conditioning.

The triple screen gives it a modern, high-tech look, but it also seems quite over-the-top(image above)

The GLB can be ordered with either five or seven seats; the third row is a €1,522 option—an extra feature included on our test vehicle. With the two rear seats folded down, cargo capacity is 480 liters, a figure that rises to 540 liters in the five-seat configuration. However, the list of family-friendly options doesn't stop there; side airbags for the second row, for instance, cost an additional €176.

163 + 30 hp...Under the hood, the 200 4MATIC features a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 163 hp, assisted by a 30-hp electric motor integrated into the 8-speed 8G-eDCT dual-clutch transmission. This setup distributes power between the front and rear axles, generates 250 Nm of torque, and delivers 0–100 km/h acceleration in 8.5 seconds, with a top speed of 204 km/h. On paper, it looks more like a "sensible" family car than a "spicy" SUV, and on the road, it behaves exactly that way—though it still has enough power for smooth overtaking.

In city traffic, the dual-clutch transmission operates with the smoothness typical of modern Mercedes models. The electric motor provides a subtle, silent boost that improves gear-shift responsiveness—particularly noticeable when accelerating from a standstill, where this GLB responds with more vigor than one might expect from a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine of this size.

Regarding suspension, the test vehicle featured the standard setup rather than the optional adjustable dampers, which cost an extra €855 in the Mercedes configuration. The result is a very comfortable, well-damped ride with the controlled heft typical of the brand's SUVs, although a bit more firmness in corners would be welcome on winding roads. The steering is precise and makes for easy maneuvering in the city, aided by an 11.9-meter turning circle—a very reasonable figure for a car nearly 4.75 meters long.

On the open road, the GLB feels most at home on smooth, straight asphalt, boasting excellent sound insulation at highway speeds and a cabin where road and wind noise are barely perceptible, even above 120 km/h. It is on winding roads that the vehicle's weight becomes apparent, with some body roll during quick direction changes and handling characteristics that encourage a relaxed driving style rather than pushing the limits—understandable for a family SUV weighing nearly two tons. That said, the all-wheel-drive system is a welcome feature when exiting corners or overtaking on wet surfaces, delivering power smoothly and predictably.

Standard equipment also includes "Terrain Mode," a setting designed for slippery surfaces or dirt roads that adjusts torque distribution between the axles and softens throttle response. While it remains primarily a road-going vehicle, it is great to have this versatile option available for muddy mountain passes or snowy drives to the ski resort, without needing to get out and fit snow chains at the first sign of trouble.

The driver-assistance systems are well-calibrated, avoiding the abrupt interventions some cars exhibit when correcting the vehicle's path or braking during reverse maneuvers to avoid an obstacle. The lane-keeping assist makes gentle course corrections, and the cruise control adapts to actual traffic conditions without unnecessary braking—two features particularly appreciated on the long highway journeys for which this car seems designed.

Price...With a starting price of €57,588 (excluding options), the GLB 200 4MATIC occupies an interesting niche in its segment, offering all-wheel drive, optional seven-seat capacity, and a generous standard equipment package, all while trading away the cutting-edge feel of its electric siblings. As a family car, it fulfills its purpose masterfully, though it is advisable to keep a calculator handy when adding options like a third row of seats, rear airbags, or adjustable dampers, which can quickly push the final price close to that of a higher-spec version.

Autonews