Mercedes-Benz GLB goes electric in Australia
Seven-seat luxury SUV gains EV variants and next-generation techThe News
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB range has arrived in Australia with a fresh look, more technology and, for the first time, fully electric variants.
While the seven-seat luxury SUV continues to offer mild-hybrid petrol power, the biggest change is the addition of a pair of EV models offering more than 600km of claimed driving range and fast-charging capability.
The Key Details
- Fully electric GLB variants join the range for the first time
- Seven-seat cabin remains standard across the line-up
- EV models claim up to 626km driving range (WLTP)
- New MB.OS software and AI-powered MBUX infotainment debut
- Pricing starts from $65,400 before on-road costs
The Finer Details
Three years after the previous GLB scored mild-hybrid assistance and extra standard equipment, Mercedes-Benz has given its practical seven-seat SUV its biggest overhaul yet.
The headline act is electrification.
Joining the familiar hybrid-powered GLB 200 and GLB 220 4MATIC are the new GLB 250+ electric and GLB 350 4MATIC electric, giving buyers the choice of petrol-assisted or fully battery-powered drivetrains for the first time.
The two hybrid variants continue to use a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, producing 120kW in the GLB 200 and 140kW in the GLB 220 4MATIC.
The EVs are considerably punchier.
The rear-wheel-drive GLB 250+ electric develops 200kW and 335Nm, while the flagship GLB 350 4MATIC electric lifts outputs to 260kW and 515Nm, enough for a claimed 0-100km/h sprint of 5.5 seconds.
Mercedes-Benz says the electric models can travel up to 626km on the WLTP cycle and support DC fast charging at up to 320kW. Under ideal conditions, up to 260km of driving range can reportedly be added in 10 minutes.
Despite the move towards electrification, Mercedes-Benz hasn't forgotten the GLB's family-focused brief.
Seven seats remain standard, rear passengers gain extra legroom, and the sliding second-row bench allows owners to balance passenger and cargo space as required. EV variants also score a 127L front boot, providing additional storage for charging cables and other odds and ends.
Inside, the GLB receives a significant technology upgrade courtesy of Mercedes-Benz's new MB.OS operating system.
A 10.25-inch digital instrument display and 14-inch touchscreen are standard, while buyers can option an MBUX Superscreen that adds a passenger-side display.
The latest infotainment system also integrates ChatGPT-4o, Google Gemini and Microsoft Bing.
The new model also receives a more upright look, revised lighting signatures and a standard panoramic glass roof across the range.
Electric versions gain a distinctive grille featuring 94 illuminated Mercedes-Benz stars, helping separate them visually from their hybrid siblings.
The Road Ahead
The new GLB arrives as Mercedes-Benz broadens its electrified SUV line-up and gives buyers more choice than ever.
While hybrid grades continue to cater for customers not yet ready to make the switch, the addition of long-range EV variants should help the GLB remain a compelling option for families wanting seven seats without stepping up to a larger luxury SUV.
The range is on sale now.
How much does the Mercedes-Benz GLB cost?
GLB 200 – $65,400
GLB 220 4MATIC – $76,100
GLB 250+ electric – $74,990
GLB 350 4MATIC electric – $86,200
*Prices exclude on-road costs.
Related: Mercedes-Benz GLB 2020 Review – Australia
Related: 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB freshen up
Related: Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class 2020 Review – International
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