The TL;DR of the new Mercedes GLB is that it offers more of the same.
More space throughout, more range for the electric models, more towing capacity and more screens.
The new Mercedes GLB looks quite similar to the previous one, but modernised with lightbars front and rear. The design is clearly related to the new CLA, which isn't surprising as there's a lot of shared parts beneath the skin.
The new GLB is going on sale in early 2026, and prices will be announced closer to that point. But, for context, the current electric GLB – the Mercedes EQB – starts from around £53,000 and rises to £61,000.
Interior
If you thought the outgoing GLB's screens were big, just take a look at these. The 10.25-inch driver's display screen is the same size as before, but the main touchscreen is now 14 inches across. And there's an optional 14-inch screen for the front passenger, too. The three screens sit in one imposing panel that stretches from door to door.
Living within the new screens is Mercedes’ fourth-generation MBUX infotainment system. This promises a new ‘zero layer’ top menu that lets you get to regularly used functions quickly. Apps can be grouped into folders, similar to a smartphone's layout.
Google Maps is the built-in navigation system, and there's an 'Electric Intelligence' plug-in that considers charging stops within the fastest route guidance on a long journey.
The MBUX Virtual Assistant voice control uses generative AI from both Google and Microsoft to answer your queries, and it’s made to feel more human with ‘various emotionally responsive avatars’. We're told the AI systems are 'empathetic like a friend'. Feels like Mercedes’ designers came up with this after watching the Pixar film Inside Out.
The GLB also looks like it’ll be perfect if you’re afraid of the dark. Ambient lighting seems to seep from every gap and surface in the cabin – we wonder if this could be distracting when driving at night?
The ambient lighting is matched by a new panoramic sunroof, which can change opacity if you bother to find the setting within the touchscreen. You’ll notice it also has illuminated Mercedes three-pointed-star logos etched into it – which is too much in our eyes.
However, among all the screens, Mercedes has reintroduced proper rocker switches for the cruise control functions and the volume control, citing 'numerous customer requests'.
As is common in the Mercedes lineup, there'll be an entry-level trim – potentially called Sport – and several AMG Line trims with sporty styling. At the top of the range, there'll be a Night Edition version with moody black exterior trim.
Practicality
Like the outgoing Mercedes GLB, the new car will be available as a five or seven-seater. Mercedes promises more headroom in the first and second rows, and more supportive seats in the second row with increased thigh support. These seats recline, and slide forwards and backwards, and it’s now easier to access the third row of seats.
We’re pleased to see Isofix points in the third row of seats, meaning the new GLB will have four or five Isofix points in total.
Boot space stands at 540 litres (five-seat models) or 480 litres (seven-seat models with the third row folded). Fold the second row down and you've got up to 1,715 litres of van-like room to fill. Electric models also include a 127-litre frunk under the bonnet, which Mercedes says is big enough for 'a crate of drinks, three footballs, or a compact tent'.
Range and performance
The GLB will come with hybrid and electric versions – but the latter won’t be badged as the EQB this time. These options will be borrowed from the new CLA, and the new electric GLB is expected to have a maximum quoted range of over 400 miles.
Two battery sizes will be available, as well as a dual-motor version with all-wheel drive and increased performance. The GLB has a maximum charging rate of 320kW, so it’ll be able to charge at the UK’s fastest chargers. So, even though the 85kWh battery is quite chunky, over 160 miles can be added in 10 minutes.
Some GLB models will come with Mercedes' 4Matic four-wheel-drive system, and these versions feature a Terrain Mode selector, a 'transparent bonnet' setting giving you a virtual view under the whole vehicle, and the ability for the front electric motor to decouple when it's not needed.
Rivals to the GLB include the Peugeot 5008, Skoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tayron.
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Shop used Mercedes GLB cars and used Mercedes EQB cars for sale, or read our Mercedes reviews.
