2023 Mercedes GLB

Most small luxury SUVs are hard to recommend. They're usually too small, too skimpy, and too unrefined for the price they charge. We usually recommend getting a better-equipped, roomier non-luxury SUV. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is an exception.

It’s distinctive, versatile, and stylish in a way that its competitors can’t. It may start at $40,000, but it looks, feels, and performs like it should.

The first generation of Mercedes GLB appeared in 2019. The compact city crossover received the funny nickname "Baby G-wagen", because the ideas for the exterior design were taken from the G-class SUVs. In size, the 4.6-meter crossover is comparable to the B-class, and you can even install a 7-seater 3-row interior in it as an option. But inside, it looks more like an A-class, and its dynamic characteristics are from the GLA. In March 2023, the GLB was updated. The planned restyling brought a more stylish and modern appearance, improved equipment and upgraded engines. At the same time as the GLB, the updated Mercedes GLA was released.

A big part of the GLB’s transcendent appeal is its very large size for the segment and its extra-boxy shape. Add in the versatility of a sliding rear seat, and you have a subcompact SUV with the interior space of a midsize SUV. Beyond its roominess, however, its striking design stands out in a segment that often feels a little cheap.

Bold swiveling air vents and a handsome dual-screen infotainment system carry much of the weight, but the quality of materials is also above average for the segment. And while the GLB is indeed built on less sophisticated bones than its pricier, more refined GLC sibling, experts say the reduction is more than fair for the price.

Exterior

Externally, the new Mercedes GLB 2023 has a more aggressive design. The front part is made in the style of the latest Mercedes-Benz models: a larger radiator grille and a massive bumper with an enlarged lower part made of unpainted plastic, new headlight graphics. All optics are already LED in the basic equipment. Other wheel disks of 17-20 inches and additional body colors appeared. Thanks to the more square rear part, the GLB has an advantage in cargo space compared to the GLA.

Interior and equipment

Mercedes-Benz has done a good job of thinking about the interior of the GLB. It offers plenty of clever storage options both in the cabin and in the cargo area, making it more practical than most luxury offerings in this segment (and many others). The driving position in the GLB is excellent, and the first and second-row seats are comfortable and supportive, with plenty of adjustment.

Every GLB includes the latest iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment suite, which is controlled via your choice of central touchscreen (7-inch standard, 10.25-inch available), a touchpad on the center console, steering wheel-mounted controls, and natural language commands.

Engines

All petrol engines of the 2023 Mercedes GLB received an additional 14 hp thanks to a 48-volt starter-generator, becoming "mild" hybrids. Diesels retained their power, but after restyling they will be supplemented with a pre-selective "robot" (7 or 8 gears). The plug-in hybrid is still only available in the GLA. The most powerful AMG versions were excluded from the range, leaving the all-wheel drive Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 with a 2-liter engine with a capacity of 306 hp and an 8-speed "robot".

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