Mercedes Glb electric and hybrid, everything you need to know about the second generation - Photos

Mercedes Glb enters its second generation and does so by becoming multi-energy, thanks to the presence of fully electric and hybrid powertrains. Built on the MMA platform, brought to debut by the third-generation CLA, the new Glb confirms the seven-seater version for both internal combustion and lithium-ion powered models.

The new generation of the Mercedes-Benz Glb grows in size. With a length of 4.73 metres and a wheelbase of over 2.88 metres, it grows by almost 10 centimetres more in length and 6 centimetres more in wheelbase. The increase in interior space is especially noticeable in the rear, where the second row gains useful legroom centimetres and a more favourable seating angle. The third row, available as an option, accommodates passengers up to 1.68 m tall and benefits from improved access. The practical vocation also emerges from the presence of a 127-litre frunk, which alongside the rear luggage compartment brings the total capacity up to 667 litres in the five-seater version. With the backrests folded down it comes to 1,715 litres. The 4Matic versions add tools for getting off the tarmac: Terrain Mode adjusts engine, steering and brakes, while the Transparent Bonnet function facilitates driving on uneven surfaces by virtually showing what is happening underneath the vehicle.

The cockpit marks a marked departure from the previous generation. The dashboard is dominated by the Mbux Superscreen, a single panel integrating up to three displays, including one dedicated to the passenger. Simplified controls, more readable graphics and the presence of the new Mb.Os operating system ensure a more advanced digital environment, with Ota updates and navigation based on Google Maps. Comfort also increases: redesigned seats with stiffer foams, larger support surfaces and more efficient climate management thanks to the new multi-source heat pump, inspired by the Vision Eqxx project. In tests at -7 °C, the passenger compartment reaches the set temperature in half the time of the previous model, consuming 50 per cent less. At -15 °C, it only takes 15 minutes to have the windscreen completely defrosted. Last but not least, there is the extended ambient lighting, combined with the panoramic roof with 158 LED micro-stars, a distinctive feature of the new electric Mercedes.

Two electric versions make their debut: the 200 kW Glb 250+ and the 260 kW Glb 350 4Matic. Both feature 85 kWh batteries and exploit an 800 volt architecture, allowing recharging up to 320 kW, adding up to 260 km of range in ten minutes. The 250+ is the top mileage model, with a claimed range of up to 631 km, while the 350 4Matic adds a front engine and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds. The two-speed transmission on the rear axle is a rare solution among compact electric SUVs: the first favours torque at low revs, the second reduces consumption and noise on the motorway. Energy recovery is up to 200 kW and, under ideal conditions, can bring the vehicle to a halt without using conventional brakes. Hybrid versions will also arrive in the months following the launch, based on the new 1.5 turbo Miller cycle with a 48-volt system integrated into the dual-clutch gearbox. Aesthetics will remain virtually identical, with the exception of the front grille.