Mercedes-Benz GLB Compact SUV Spotted Undergoing Cold Weather Testing

A new prototype of Mercedes-Benz GLB compact SUV was recently spotted while undergoing cold weather testing. Still covered in heavy camouflage and a bunch of pseudo cladding to hide its true design, the upcoming GLB, as the name suggests is based on the B-Class and is built on the MFA2 platform, which underpins the latter. Expected to break cover sometime in 2019, the new Mercedes-Benz GLB will be positioned between the GLA and the GLC models.

Mercedes-Benz GLB is based on the B-Class

Interestingly, with all these bulky panels and cladding, at the first glace, one might even mistake it for being a bigger SUV like the GLE. But, a closer look at the images tells us the most these are just bolt on cladding used for camouflage and the actual car will be a lot different and curvier. Visually, we see that the GLB prototype will come with a set of LED headlamps, 10-spoke alloy wheels, and ORVMs. However, the taillamps are still test units and the front and rear bumper are not fake ones.

Mercedes-Benz GLB is built on the MFA2 platform as the A-Class and B-Class

The upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLB is expected to be a family car like the B-Class so expect a spacious five-seater cabin with a large boot space, possibly above 500 litres. It's said that Mercedes might even consider offering an optional third row in certain markets. In terms of design and styling for the cabin, we expect the GLB to take inspiration from the new-gen A-Class' cabin, which was revealed last year.

Mercedes-Benz GLB will share its powertrains with the new-gen A-Class

Mechanically, we expect the Mercedes-Benz GLB to get the same engine options as the new A-Class, which will include a range of small displacement four-cylinder mills running both petrol and diesel. It could get the new engines that have been developed in partnership with the Renault-Nissan alliance. The GLB is also expected to get a new electronically controlled four-wheel drive system, but we will come to know for sure when the company reveals the SUV.

Image Courtesy: Motor1