Mercedes-Benz has officially revealed the next-generation GLB globally, and the brand has confirmed that the SUV will make its way to India, though a launch is not expected in the near future. The new model is built on the MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture), the same platform underpinning the all-new CLA, and will be offered internationally with both EV and ICE powertrains.
However, India will remain an ICE-only market for the GLB, with petrol and diesel engines planned for our market instead of electric or hybrid versions at launch.
Key Highlights
-
All-new Mercedes-Benz GLB revealed globally
-
Offered overseas with EV, hybrid, petrol and diesel engines
-
India to get petrol and diesel versions only
-
Will be imported as a CBU (Completely Built Unit)
-
Continues with a three-row, 5+2 seating layout
-
No direct rival in India, except possibly the Land Rover Discovery Sport
CBU Import Strategy for India
Mercedes-Benz will bring the new GLB to India as a full import, similar to the first-generation GLB and the EQB. Unlike the CLA Electric—which is expected to be assembled locally at a later stage—the GLB will not be localised, primarily due to limited expected sales volumes.
The brand is positioning the new CLA EV as the volume driver, while the GLB caters to a niche premium audience looking for a compact 7-seat luxury SUV.
Design: More Distinctive and Bold
The earlier GLB stood out for its upright and practical design, and the new model takes this approach forward with an even stronger visual identity.
Front End
-
Large, upright grille with a central star
-
Connected LED headlamps with three-pointed star signature elements
-
EV variant features a shrouded grille with illuminated stars
Profile and Rear
-
Boxy silhouette with a chunky D-pillar
-
New, more conventional window line replacing the old “kink”
-
Rear styled with an upright tailgate and a connected inverted U-shaped tail-lamp bar
-
Tail-lamps also feature LED star motifs
Overall, the GLB continues to stand apart from the more coupe-like SUVs in the Mercedes line-up.
Dimensions
The new GLB grows in size, which should translate into better space management, especially for passengers in the second and third rows.
-
Length: +98mm
-
Width: +27mm
-
Height: –14mm
-
Wheelbase: +60mm
Interior: Tech-Heavy Cabin with Optional Passenger Display
The cabin closely mirrors the interior of the new CLA, with a three-screen dashboard layout and Mercedes’ latest MB.OS infotainment suite. A passenger-side display will be optional.
Other highlights include:
-
Raised driving position
-
Minimalist centre stack with storage underneath
-
Select physical controls reintroduced
-
Majority of features retained within the touchscreen
The second row slides and reclines, improving both comfort and access to the third row.
EV models also gain a 127-litre front trunk, but this is unlikely to make it to India.
Powertrains: EV, Hybrid and ICE Globally; ICE for India
Electric GLB (Global)
-
85kWh battery pack
-
Up to 631km WLTP range (2WD)
-
800V architecture enabling 320kW DC fast charging
Performance:
-
GLB 250+: 272hp / 335Nm, RWD
-
GLB 350 4Matic: 353hp / 515Nm, AWD, 0-100kph in 5.5s
48V Mild Hybrid (Global)
Expected later, featuring a:
-
1.5-litre turbo-petrol + integrated motor
-
Capable of limited EV-only running
-
Up to 20kW (27hp) electric boost
India-Spec Engines
Final specs are undisclosed, but India will likely get:
-
Standard petrol and diesel engines
-
Conventional turbocharged setups
-
Without hybrid or EV systems initially
This strategy reflects India’s price-sensitive luxury market and uncertain premium EV demand.
Seating: 5- and 7-Seat Configurations
The GLB continues to be one of the few compact luxury SUVs with three rows, making it a unique proposition in India.
Expect:
-
5-seater and 7-seater layouts
-
Improved space thanks to longer wheelbase
-
Third row suitable primarily for kids or short trips
Expected Rivals
The GLB occupies a rare niche, with no direct competition in India.
Closest alternative:
-
Land Rover Discovery Sport, but it sits a segment higher.
India Launch Timeline
Mercedes-Benz has confirmed the GLB for India, but an official launch date has not been announced. Given the CBU strategy, expect a later rollout, possibly towards late 2025 or 2026.
Meanwhile, much of the new tech, especially the MB.OS interface, will debut earlier in India with the CLA Electric, scheduled for launch next year.
Conclusion
The next-generation Mercedes-Benz GLB reshapes the compact luxury SUV space with:
-
A bold design revamp
-
Advanced EV and hybrid tech
-
A practical 7-seat layout
-
A premium tech-centric cabin
However, India will see a more conservative, ICE-only approach, brought in as a CBU for a niche audience looking for practicality and luxury in a compact footprint.
Read More:
