Mercedes is readying a new model for its crossover range – and it’s likely to use the GLB name. Following Merc’s new badging structure, the GLB would slot in between the GLA crossover and GLC SUV as a pumped-up version of the slow-selling B-Class MPV.
The brand recently registered the GLB name, but until now we’d seen no evidence of the company putting it into production. Our spy photographers have since caught the car testing, though, on what looks like an extended version of the A-Class and GLA’s front-wheel drive platform.
Whereby the GLC is related to the C-Class, and the GLE part of the E-Class family, the new GLB would fall under the B-Class tree. Mercedes would be looking to capitalise on the current trend for small crossovers with its sixth SUV offering – hitting cars like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 right where it hurts.
We don’t believe the production model would be quite so closely aligned to the GLA in terms of styling, but these images are proof there is something in the melting pot. While the GLA is considered quite compact with an emphasis on style, the GLB is likely to take practicality up a notch, with a useable boot and greater passenger space.
Engines and specs are expected to follow other models in the range with GLB 200d and GLB 220d diesels sitting alongside GLB 200 and GLB 250 petrols. A plug-in version will undoubtedly be offered too, while an GLB 45 AMG version cannot be ruled out. Being based on the A and B-Class rather than the larger C-Class will mean entry-level cars are front rather than rear-wheel drive, but 4MATIC four-wheel drive should feature on top-spec cars.
Joining GLA, GLC, GLE and GLS, along with the longstanding G-Class 4x4, the GLB isn’t likely to see the light of day before 2018 at the earliest – with first customer cars the year after.
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