The GLB is an attractive luxury SUV for the money. Its boxy shape gives it a distinctive look and provides extra passenger and cargo space. Throw in some of the best technology available on the market and you've got one of the best small luxury SUVs around.Read full review
Josh Jacquot is a seasoned automotive journalist with a career spanning more than two decades. His passion for cars has been the driving force behind his career, fueling his love for storytelling and technical work. Josh has held staff positions at Edmunds and Car and Driver, where he performed instrumented testing and wrote everything from technical breakdowns to long-form adventure stories. This hands-on enthusiast's early fascination with cars evolved into a professional journey that blends his technical knowledge and deep appreciation for engaging driver's cars.
Pros
Spacious for both passengers and cargo
Strong overall performance
Exceptional ride and seat comfort
Boasts the latest tech and convenience features
Cons
GLB 250 isn't particularly exciting to drive
Options can quickly add cost to what is an entry-level model
What's new
Updated front and rear fascias
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen become standard
Mild reshuffling of features between trims and packages
Part of the first GLB generation introduced for 2020
Overview
The GLB is the second smallest SUV in Mercedes-Benz's wide spectrum of utility vehicles. Sizewise, it's slightly bigger than the GLA mini ute and just smaller than the midsize GLC, which sits below the larger and more luxurious GLE and GLS models. By virtue of its class positioning, the GLB stays more reasonably priced (for a luxury ute) while sacrificing the upscale features and finishes you'll get in the higher models.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class AMG GLB 35 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8AM) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.52 per gallon for premium unleaded in New Mexico.
With squared-off edges, a 111-inch wheelbase and an optional third row, the GLB finds itself in a sweet spot of luxury ute functionality. Thanks to a fairly traditional shape that maximizes interior space, the GLB offers more usable passenger space than several direct competitors. A sliding and reclining second row adds utility, while the available way-back seat will suffice for little people. We like that getting the front-wheel-drive GLB doesn't force a compromise on features. What's more, the new-for-2024 mild hybrid system helps improve EPA fuel economy by 1 mpg combined on front-wheel-drive trims and 2 mpg combined on all-wheel-drive trims.
Competitors to consider
Direct competitors to the GLB include the Audi Q3, BMW X1 and Volvo XC40, among others. Last year, the GLB was arguably already ahead of these rivals technologically on the merits of its MBUX infotainment system alone. This year that system gains a bigger screen, furthering the gap. But the GLB's interior doesn't feel as plush as the Audi's and its handling isn't as athletic as the BMW's.
Edmunds Expert Rating
Our VerdictThe Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.
Great
8.1
out of 10
edmunds TESTED
The GLB is an attractive luxury SUV for the money. Its boxy shape gives it a distinctive look and provides extra passenger and cargo space. Throw in some of the best technology available on the market and you've got one of the best small luxury SUVs around.
How does the GLB-Class drive? In our testing, the GLB 250 reached 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, which is properly quick and at the top of the class. When you stomp the pedal, there's a noticeable delay before it starts accelerating, but with a lighter pedal application, it gets underway smoothly.
The GLB isn't particularly exciting to drive, but it is more capable than most SUV owners will need. The GLB's brakes are easy to control for smooth stops and impressively strong when you need to make an emergency stop. Around turns, the GLB feels sure-footed and planted.
Comfort
8.5/10
How comfortable is the GLB-Class? The GLB has a smooth ride and front seats that remain comfortable for hours at a time. We also like how the cabin stays pleasantly quiet on the highway, even on rough road surfaces. The climate control system also works well on both hot and cold days to keep you cozy at your desired temperature.
Interior
8.5/10
How’s the interior? The GLB's ride height and tall door openings make it easy to get in and out of. There's no need to step up or stoop down — just slip on in. Once inside, you'll find that all of the controls are logically placed and, after a very short time, you can operate them without having to take your eyes off the road.
The GLB's boxy shape affords generous space compared to most of its competitors. Its tall windows provide excellent outward visibility. One minor downside: The sun visors are too small and don't provide full coverage when moved to the side of the vehicle.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Save as much as $5,950 with Edmunds Click on the trim you’re interested in to see what Edmunds suggests you should pay to get a good deal. Savings vary by trim; $5,950 refers to estimated savings off of MSRP for the AMG GLB 35 trim.
2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class AMG GLB 35 pricing in Albuquerque, NM
How’s the tech? The GLB gets high marks for its tech features. It comes with Mercedes' MBUX infotainment system and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. MBUX is the easiest and best system out there, with many ways to control functions. It sometimes take a moment to process voice commands, but they work accurately.
The GLB's driver assist features are particularly good. The adaptive cruise works great whether you're driving in dense highway traffic or cruising on the open highway. The lane keeping assistance can be a little too aggressive in trying to keep you in the lane, but that situation is pretty rare.
Storage
8/10
How’s the storage? The GLB's boxy shape comes in handy when taking on cargo. It'll accommodate big and bulky objects, and the low liftover height of the cargo floor and the standard power liftgate make loading easier. There are also plenty of places to keep your personal items, with large door pockets and a sizable center bin. Spring-loaded cupholder tabs keep narrow beverages secure too.
For family duty, the GLB should work out OK. A rear-facing infant safety seat can fit, but only if you keep the rear seats slid all the way back and the front seats in a reasonable position. We did notice that some car seat bases we tested were a bit hard to latch onto the GLB's car seat anchor points.
Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below
Fuel Economy
8/10
How’s the fuel economy? The EPA estimates fuel economy to be up to 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That's a little above average for the class. Based on our real-world driving, we suspect the EPA figure should be achievable with a light foot.
Value
7.5/10
Is the GLB-Class a good value? The GLB splits the difference between the smaller and more affordable GLA and the slightly bigger and more expensive GLC. It's an appealing option as long as you know what you're getting. Buying one with a ton of options significantly inflates the price, and at that point you should consider the more refined GLC.
Compared with other extra-small luxury SUVs, you pay a little more for the GLB, but you also get more in terms of space, performance and comfort. As with most models in this class, the quality of materials feels a bit cheap in some areas, but overall the GLB feels worth its price.
Wildcard
8/10
The GLB's upright and boxy styling gives it a more traditional and utilitarian SUV look, which we like. Is the GLB fun? No, not really. But that's mostly because we've only tested the GLB 250 so far. The AMG variant should have drivers seeking more excitement covered.
Which GLB-Class does Edmunds recommend?
If you need all-wheel drive, the GLB 250 4Matic is the best choice. If not, the GLB 250 offers identical standard equipment without all-wheel drive. The high-performance AMG GLB 35 offers a level of performance most buyers won't need. And it costs significantly more.
These Are the Best SUVs of 2022-2023 | 2022-2023 Top SUVs | The SUVs We'd Buy in Each Class
NOTE: This video is about the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, but since the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
In the market for a brand-new SUV? Whether you're looking for small and affordable or large and in charge, Edmunds has you covered with our list of best-in-class SUVs for the 2022-2023 model year. From Honda to Mercedes to Volkswagen, our comprehensive list encompasses everything from budget and economy 2-row SUVs to luxury 3-row SUVs on sale today up to $100,000.
When a collision is unavoidable, this system emits a special noise through the stereo speakers that protects your hearing during impact.
Active Brake Assist
Emits an alert if a front collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
Blind Spot Assist
Signals the driver if a vehicle is in a blind spot or if a car or bicyclist is approaching from behind when the GLB is parked.
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
Not Rated
Driver
Not Rated
Passenger
Not Rated
Side Crash Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Rating
Overall
5 / 5
Driver
5 / 5
Passenger
5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Rating
Front Seat
5 / 5
Back Seat
5 / 5
Rollover
Rating
Rollover
4 / 5
Dynamic Test Result
No Tip
Risk Of Rollover
17.9%
FAQ
Is the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class a good car?
The Edmunds experts tested the 2024 GLB-Class both on the road and at the track, giving it a 8.1 out of 10. What about cargo capacity? When you're thinking about carrying stuff in your new car, keep in mind that the GLB-Class has 22.0 cubic feet of trunk space. And then there's safety and reliability. Edmunds has all the latest NHTSA and IIHS crash-test scores, plus industry-leading expert and consumer reviews to help you understand what it's like to own and maintain a Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. Learn more
What's new in the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class:
Updated front and rear fascias
10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment screen become standard
Mild reshuffling of features between trims and packages
Part of the first GLB generation introduced for 2020
To determine whether the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is reliable, read Edmunds' authentic consumer reviews, which come from real owners and reveal what it's like to live with the GLB-Class. Look for specific complaints that keep popping up in the reviews, and be sure to compare the GLB-Class's average consumer rating to that of competing vehicles. Learn more
Is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class a good car?
There's a lot to consider if you're wondering whether the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is a good car. Edmunds' expert testing team reviewed the 2024 GLB-Class and gave it a 8.1 out of 10. Safety scores, fuel economy, cargo capacity and feature availability should all be factors in determining whether the 2024 GLB-Class is a good car for you. Learn more
How much should I pay for a 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
The least-expensive 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class AMG GLB 35 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8AM). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $59,050.
Other versions include:
AMG GLB 35 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8AM) which starts at $59,050
What are the different models of Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?
If you're interested in the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class, the next question is, which GLB-Class model is right for you? GLB-Class variants include AMG GLB 35 4dr SUV AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8AM). For a full list of GLB-Class models, check out Edmunds’ Features & Specs page. Learn more
Related 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class AMG GLB 35 info