Mercedes-Benz GLB 2026: The Boxy Seven-Seater SUV Evolves with MB.OS Technology and up to 631 km of Electric Range

Mercedes-Benz continues the renewal of its compact range with the second generation of the GLB. This SUV maintains its angular design and modernizes with three interior screens, an advanced operating system, and electrified powertrains.

Mercedes-Benz continues renewing its compact vehicle range after the CLA and the CLA Shooting Brake. Now, it is the turn of the GLB 2026, the second generation of the seven-seater SUV. This model maintains its ‘boxy’ design.

The body is longer and wider than its predecessor. The new GLB measures 4.73 meters in length and 1.86 in width. However, the vehicle is somewhat lower than before, staying at 1.69 meters. Finally, the wheelbase now reaches 2.89 meters. Neither Audi nor BMW offer a similar vehicle in the segment.

The result of these dimensions is slightly more headroom and legroom in all seats. The two seats in the third row can accommodate occupants up to 1.71 meters tall. Therefore, they are also designed for adults. The GLB 2026 can be ordered with 20-inch wheels. In that case, adaptive dampers come standard.

Triple Screen and Advanced Driving Systems

You will find it hard to differentiate the electric versions from the mild hybrids. This happens because the brand is merging their design languages. Only subtle details exist to distinguish them, mainly the design of the grilles.

The interior, accessed through flush body handles, features up to three screens: a 10.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch central monitor, and a display in front of the passenger, also 14 inches. Fortunately, shortcut buttons remain below the central air vents. Additionally, in the panoramic roof, which becomes opaque by touching only one button, you will count up to 158 illuminated stars.

In terms of technology, the GLB 2026 enjoys the MB.OS operating system, with an advanced MBUX virtual assistant and the use of artificial intelligence. The navigation is operated through Google Maps, and the car includes a numerous list of driving assistants.

Electric and Mild Hybrid Powertrains

The electric GLB 2026 offers 127 liters in the front trunk (frunk), making it a bit more spacious than the CLA’s. In the rear, there are 540 liters in the five-seater variant and 480 in the seven-seater. By folding the seats, the maximum volume that can be achieved reaches 1,715 liters.

The engines are the ones known from the CLA. The GLB 250+ with EQ technology develops 272 hp, moving the rear axle, and allows for 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. On the other hand, the GLB 350 4MATIC with EQ technology uses two motors (all-wheel drive) to achieve a combined 354 hp. With this option, acceleration drops to 5.5 seconds. The electronic limitation is 210 km/h in both options.

The 85 kWh battery is common to both variants. It provides a range of 631 km in the 272 hp GLB and 614 km in the 354 hp one. If you are in a hurry, a 10-minute charge at 320 kW adds enough energy for 260 kilometers.

The electric GLB is already available in Germany. It will reach customers in spring. Prices start at €59,048 for the single-motor configuration and you have to pay €62,178 if you want the most powerful option. Prices in Spain will be significantly higher.

Mercedes-Benz also plans a more affordable electric GLB, with 225 hp (as in the CLA). The mild-hybrid versions, based on a 1.5-liter engine from the Chinese giant Geely, should develop 136, 163, and 190 hp. All these powertrains will arrive over the next year.