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You might assume from the name that it is smaller than the GLC, which it is, but only by a few centimetres. Additionally, the GLB can be ordered with an additional row of seats, just like Land Rover Discovery Sport, the GLB's main rival in the large SUV class. The Audi Q5 and BMW X3, which are both similarly priced but only have five seats, are also possible rivals. Remember that there are less expensive and superior options, such as the Peugeot 5008, if you can live without the premium badge but must have seven seats.
How does the Mercedes GLB compare to its main competitors and should it be at the top of your wish list? Let’s take a look together!
The base 1.3-litre petrol model, the GLB 200, has a perfectly healthy 161 bhp and is suitable for commuting within the city or when you're alone. However, because most of its power is delivered at high revs, you'll find that it struggles on faster roads, especially when there are seven passengers in the vehicle. The fact that its standard seven-speed automatic gearbox takes a while to respond when you request a burst of acceleration doesn't help.
The more powerful diesel is better suited to the GLB overall and has more responsive eight-speed automatic transmissions. Both 2.0-litre engines produce 2.0 horsepower, but we prefer the 187bhp 220d over the 148bhp 200d because of its muscularity and how well it complements the GLB's bus-like interior. It can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds, which is faster than the Land Rover Discovery Sport D200 and comparable to the BMW X3 20d. Between 1500 and 4000 rpm, it can tow a caravan with little difficulty.
Regarding the steering wheel's reach and height adjustments, you won't have any concerns. However, unless you choose the top-tier AMG Line Premium Plus trim, which adds many extras on top, such as full electric seat adjustment with a memory function, you won't get adjustable lumbar support.
Instead of traditional dials, all GLBs have digital instruments that can be configured in a variety of modes and styles. It has a 7.0-inch screen by default, but if you upgrade to the AMG Line Premium, it grows to 10.25 inches. With a row of straightforward buttons to control the climate, the rest of the dashboard's design functions well.
Although the large, square windows of the GLB offer excellent visibility out the front and sides, there are blind spots behind each rear pillar when you look back over your shoulder. To help with that, you get a rearview camera as standard, but front and rear parking sensors are only included as standard once you reach the AMG Line Premium trim level.
The GLB still strikes a sophisticated pose even without the ambience produced by the ambient interior lighting in AMG Line Premium models. The most noticeable areas, like the tops of the doors and the dashboard, are upholstered in soft plastic or fake leather, and the twin digital displays provide a sleek and contemporary appearance.
There is a lot of front space because of the GLB's boxy shape. Legroom is abundant, even for tall drivers and front passengers, and headroom isn't significantly reduced by the optional sunroof either. There is also plenty of room for storing miscellaneous items. A deep cubby is accessible by pushing a button at the base of the centre armrest; in front of the infotainment touchpad, there is also a lidded cubby, two cup holders, and a spot specifically designated for your smartphone.
The second row of the GLB has plenty of room for people who are six feet tall. While the GLB has less headroom due to Mercedes' decision to mount its second-row seats much higher than those in front, the Land Rover Discovery Sport provides more shoulder room for three people sitting side by side.
It's simple to load and unload large objects because the square cargo area has no lip at the entrance when the tailgate is opened. There are 500 litres of space available when all five seats are occupied, which is sufficient for a few strollers or large suitcases but less than what an Audi Q5, BMW X3, or Land Rover Discovery Sport offer. There is room for a row of shopping bags if all seven seats are in use, but that's about it. A dedicated space for the parcel shelf under the boot floor is something the GLB has that the Discovery Sport does not. That helps when you unexpectedly need to unfold the third row of seats.
In many ways, the Mercedes GLB is comparable to the Land Rover Discovery Sport, but if you choose the 220d model, which we prefer, it will be more powerful and efficient. Many families will find it useful, but the firm ride may raise some questions in terms of comfort on long journeys.
At MWVC, we provide a range of Mercedes-Benz GLB and CLA prestige car leasing deals to meet every driver's requirements for finding the ideal vehicle for themselves. Our knowledgeable sales team can assist you in finding the greatest price. Are you still unsure if a car lease is the best option for you? One of our representatives will be happy to assist you if you call 0116 490 4113.
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