In 2020, Mercedes came out with the GLB SUV which no one saw coming because it promised to be a 7-seater family SUV while sharing the platform used for the compact GLA SUV. However, the GLB does indeed offer much more space and overall comfort than the GLA even though it is not a “true” seven-seater SUV. So, is Mercedes GLB 250 a good car?
The Mercedes Benz GLB-Class is indeed a really good car as it offers a really practical experience for a car of its size. The GLB shares most of its parts with the GLA while also offering a lot more space. The GLB does not really enjoy any stark competition from the Germans because it is more or less the first of its kind.
The GLB 250 comes with the same engine as in the GLA 250 which can be had with the Mercedes proprietary 4MATIC AWD system. The design of the GLB is more akin to the GLE than the GLA because it looks like a boxy SUV while the GLA looks like a streamlined modern crossover SUV.
Reliability-wise, the GLB is decent, but we will have to wait and see how the car behaves after a few years on the road. The value of the GLB250 is strong because it costs a bit more than the GLA250, yet it offers quite a bit more in the process when it comes to practicality.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 – The powertrain
The Mercedes Benz GLB 250 comes with a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder turbocharged engine with 224hp and 258lb-ft of torque which is enough for the GLB 250 to sprint from 0mph to 60mph in about 6.6 seconds. This engine is mated to the Mercedes trusty 8-speed dual-clutch automatic that fits the car’s character perfectly.
The transmission is smooth and it shifts seamlessly, so much so that it is something difficult to notice that the car changed gears at all. The GLB 250 starts as a FWD car, but you are able to pay an additional $2,000-$2,500 or so if you want the 4MATIC AWD system.
Efficiency is also strong with this engine as the GLB 250 can return up to 35MPG if you are light on the gas pedal. All in all, the powertrain setup found in the GLB 250 is really good, especially if you go for the 4MATIC AWD system.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 – Design and chassis
The Mercedes Benz GLB 250 looks and feels like a smaller GLE rather than a larger GLA even though the GLA and the GLB are the same cars underneath. The reason why is because the GLB utilizes a boxier classic SUV shape while the GLA is more of a crossover than an SUV. The interior of the GLB is amazing as is the case with all Mercedes SUVs these days.
As far as the driving experience is concerned, the GLB 250 is a no-fuss family SUV which means that it is comfortable, laid back, and not dynamic whatsoever. Mercedes tuned the GLB to be a comfortable and easy car to drive and that is apparent the moment you sit behind the wheel.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 – Reliability and common issues
The GLB 250 is still new to the game, but it seems like it is holding decently up until this point. It is difficult to say if the car is reliable or not because it only started selling less than 2 years ago. Either way, the most common GLB 250 issues are associated with the suspension and steering, airbags, electrical components, and the fuel system.
One thing is for certain, all Mercedes models require timely and thorough maintenance if you want them to last a long time. The GLB is no different than the GLA or any other Mercedes SUV. They are relatively expensive to run when the warranty expires.
Mercedes Benz GLB 250 – Value and practicality
You can expect to pay about a few thousand dollars more for the GLB 250 over the GLA 250. These two are so closely matched in price that the 4MATIC GLA250 is almost as expensive as an entry-level GLB 250. It makes a lot of sense to upgrade to the GLB, especially if you tend to drive people in the rear seats often.
Practicality-wise, the GLB 250 is a class leader as no other car in its segment is able to transport up to seven people at once. It’s easy to get in and out of the car, the visibility is great, and there are many family-friendly features throughout the car’s cabin.
FAQ Section
Should I buy the Mercedes GLB 250?
If you are after a contemporary practical family SUV with a premium badge, the GLB might just be the perfect fit. We are all aware that the GLA is selling like crazy these days because it is leagues above the old GLA which was nothing short of undeserving of its badge.
Therefore, it makes all the sense in the world to go for the current GLB because it truly does offer a lot of value for the money. If you want a more exciting GLB, you can also go through the AMG department.
Can the Mercedes GLB fit seven people?
The GLB can easily accommodate seven passengers if those passengers have little to no luggage and if those in the third row are not particularly tall. The GLB is a compact car and there is no doubt about that, but it does give you the ability to choose between the third row of seats or decent trunk space.
The GLB is a good choice if you are not often transporting seven people, if you do so occasionally, it’s good to have the option. However, don’t go thinking that the GLB can match the GLE or the GLS in space, because it can’t, not even close.
Is the Mercedes GLB an off-roader?
The Mercedes GLB-Class might be classed as an SUV, but it is not an off-roader. The GLB does come with a higher ground clearance compared to a regular car which means that it can tackle mild off-roading if you equip it with the right packages and tires.
However, the GLB can’t match true off-roaders and the reality is that no one is going to buy the GLB and expect it to be a true off-roader.
