WHEN Mercedes-Benz marketers first showed this all-new compact SUV to the world in April 2019, many in Malaysia were hoping it would be launched soon.
Why? Well, at the time the best-priced SUV in the Mercedes lineup was the GLA and honestly, it was more like an A-Class on steroids. It was not very roomy and it had a raised ride height and large wheels to give it that SUV look.
With the GLB, customers could see a proper looking muscular SUV. And the clincher is Mercedes mentioned that it will have three rows of seats, which is a need by many in Malaysia.
The GLB exterior
This Mercedes GLB is the first compact vehicle from Mercedes-Benz to offer a third seat row on request with two extra individual seats. The seats offer people up to a height of 1.68 metres a comfortable amount of space.
The extensive safety equipment includes retractable head restraints, seat belts with belt tensioners, a side window airbag, which also protects the passengers in the third seat row. There are also Isofix and TOP-Tether anchorages for suitable child seats.
This GLB 200 gets MBUX with two 10.25″ displays as standard, along with ‘Mercedes me’ support, Android Auto and Apple Carplay. This entry-level GLB comes equipped with comfort seats, velour floor mats and black Artico leather upholstery.
Comfort details in the third row include two drinks holders between the seats as well as two stowage compartments with a rubberised insert on the left and right in the load compartment trim. Each comes with a USB port. The seats can be lowered so that they are flush with the load compartment floor to extend the load compartment.
The load compartment has a capacity of 570 to 1,805 litres. The backrest angle is adjustable in several stages as standard. The second row can be moved fore and aft. This enables the boot to be enlarged up to 190 litres and put to versatile use.
The GLB engine
The GLB 200 is powered by the 1.3-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combined with the 7G-DCT 7-speed automatic transmission. It develops 163hp and a maximum torque of 250Nm which enables it to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in 9.1 seconds.
The GLB experience
It may look large in pictures, but up close, this GLB is no larger than a Subaru Forester or a Honda CR-V.
Its boxy, muscular outlook gives it heft and when you step inside it is roomy as with any boxy shaped vehicle. Space is utilised very well and the ‘not so high’ ride height allows you to get in and out of the GLB easily, especially for older passengers.
The middle row seats are comfortable and three adults abreast are easily done. The engine ignites with a slight ‘trum’ and cabin insulation is good enough to keep traffic noise low. The entertainment unit is fun and easy to use after a few hours of ‘playing’ with it.
Like with all other new Mercedes vehicles, the driver gets a large screen with way too much information available and you can decide what to use or not.
Younger drivers will love the functions and graphics, whereas the older set will appreciate the easy navigation presented.
Yes, it carries an economical 1.3L engine. With seven persons on board, we went around Selangor and had no issues with its power delivery. Yes, it is no hot hatch as this is a family-friendly Benz. Climbing hills is also easily done as the 250Nm of torque if fed early which allows for effortless acceleration.
On the open highway, it cruises nicely and the only setback is the run-flat tyres which can get a little noisy at illegal speeds. They are also a little harsh on our uneven Petaling Jaya city roads.
Then there is the question about price. At RM269k, the rivals offer almost similar performance, safety, quality and space at a lower price point. Like the Peugeot 5008 at RM173,888, the Hyundai Santa Fe at RM189,888 and the Kia Sorento at RM169,888.
So, can the three-pointed star command a premium of almost RM80,000 over its highest priced rival? Only you and your available credit can answer that question. – The Vibes, January 4, 2021
Mercedes-Benz GLB 200 Progressive Line Specifications:
Engine: 4-cylinder 16V Turbo
Displacement: 1332cc
Transmission: 7G-DCT
Max power: 163bhp @ 5500rpm
Max torque: 250Nm @ 1620-4000rpm
Top Speed: 207km/h
0-100km/h: 9.1secs
Price: RM269,118.00
