Mercedes-Benz GLB 7-seater SUV launched at Rs 63.8 lakh

The new GLB SUV will come in three variants: GLB 200, GLB 220d, and GLB 220d 4MATIC.

Mercedes-Benz, the German luxury carmaker, currently boasts the most extensive SUV portfolio in India. Now, in order to meet the rising demand for three-row SUVs, the firm has finally launched the GLB and its electric counterpart, the EQB, in the country. The price for the new 7-seater GLB SUV will range between ₹63.8 lakh and ₹69.8 lakh (ex-showroom). The EQB EV and GLB SUVs from Mercedes-Benz will be imported into India as Completely Built-Up (CBU) units.

There is no doubt that the new Mercedes-Benz GLB has been among the most anticipated launches for December 2022 and is dubbed, the "Baby GLS" by the automaker since it draws design influence from the flagship SUV. According to the manufacturer, the GLB will be available in five appealing colour schemes – Denim Blue, Polar White, Manufaktur Patagonia Red, Cosmos Black, and Mountain Grey. 

Coming to the powertrain, the 1.3-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol engine that powers the Mercedes-Benz GLB 200 is mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox and is capable of producing 160bhp and 250Nm of maximum torque at 1620-4000rpm. The SUV's claimed top speed is 207km/h, and it can accelerate from 0 to 100km/h in 9.1 seconds.

On the other hand, the GLB 200d features a diesel engine with a 2-litre 4-cylinder and an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission that can generate 187bhp and 400Nm of peak torque with a top speed of 220km/h. Interestingly, it is faster than its petrol-powered counterpart. The GLB 220d 4MATIC – AMG Line, which has a top speed of 217km/h and the same power output and torque numbers as the GLB 220d, is another variant. It is, however, fitted with a 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.

Regarding the exterior design, the GLB is similar to the GLS, sporting an upright grille, LED headlights, a long and muscular bonnet, a roofline, squared wheel arches, and two-piece taillamps. The 18-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels on the GLB 200 and GLB 220d and the 19-inch alloy wheels on the GLB 220d 4MATIC are both painted gloss black and silver.

Feature-wise, the new GLB will be equipped with all-LED lighting, a fully digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, a large panoramic sunroof, powered front seats, ambient lighting, a huge infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, and much more. 

Being an entry-level 7-seater SUV, the GLB currently does not have direct competition in the Indian market. However, in terms of the price range, it can lock horns with the likes of the Audi Q5.

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