The first flick of the “Dynamic” toggle into Sport mode in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 immediately signaled a shift in character. The suspension tightened, the steering became more responsive, and the throttle eagerly awaited my input, encouraging the dual-clutch transmission to hold onto gears a moment longer. Pulling onto the on-ramp from a slow roll, I pushed the pedal down. The transmission swiftly dropped gears, and the turbocharged engine responded with surprising enthusiasm as I accelerated to highway speed. It wasn’t outright fast, but the GLB 250 felt eager, working hard, and a thought popped into my head: “This thing would be fun to rallycross.”
This thought wasn’t entirely out of left field. I had just spent a weekend throwing older, less refined cars around a dirt rallycross course. While rallycross is typically dominated by sedans and coupes, a modified Jeep Renegade with off-road tires had proven surprisingly capable. Even a Volvo XC90, far from a rally car, had provided some off-road thrills. Spending time with the GLB 250, I sensed a similar playful spirit beneath its premium veneer – like a well-bred dog itching for a romp in the mud.
Decoding the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250
The vehicle in question is indeed the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250. It shares its platform with the Mercedes-Benz A220 sedan, but Mercedes classifies the GLB as a “compact” SUV, positioning it below the “midsize” GLC. However, in reality, the GLB is nearly identical in overall length to the GLC and even boasts a longer wheelbase. This extended wheelbase is what allows Mercedes to offer an optional third-row seat in the GLB 250, a feature that seems almost comical given the vehicle’s compact dimensions. The third row is realistically suited only for very small children, or perhaps as a last resort for short trips.
Under the hood, every 2020 GLB 250 is equipped with Mercedes-Benz’s “M264” 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. While a variant of this engine also powers the A220, in the GLB 250 it’s tuned to produce a more robust 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Power is delivered through an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, and buyers can choose between standard front-wheel drive or optional 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
My test GLB 250 was equipped with a selection of desirable options, including adaptive suspension, ambient interior lighting, parking assist, MBUX navigation with augmented reality, and dual 10.25-inch dashboard displays. The total MSRP for this configuration came to $51,875.
Behind the Wheel: Driving Dynamics of the GLB 250
My initial impressions of the GLB 250 echoed those of the A220 sedan I had previously tested. The seats are excellent – leather-wrapped in this instance – and contribute to a comfortable and upscale cabin that immediately feels premium. The dual 10.25-inch screens and ambient lighting truly enhance the GLB’s premium appeal.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces a satisfying sound throughout its rev range, especially when pushed in Sport mode. The power and torque figures feel well-matched to the GLB 250’s size and weight, which is around 3,700 pounds. You do need to work the engine a bit to access its full potential, but this isn’t necessarily a negative aspect. The 8-speed DCT in the GLB 250 proved to be a more refined partner than the 7-speed DCT in the A220. This could be due to software tuning or actual mechanical differences in the transmissions, but the result was a smoother driving experience. While paddle shifters are included, the transmission often prefers to operate in its automatic mode, sometimes ignoring manual shift inputs.
Another area of improvement over the A220 is the adaptive suspension. While not flawless, the ride quality in Comfort mode is generally compliant and comfortable. Switching to Sport mode noticeably firms up the shocks, providing enhanced confidence when tackling winding roads. This is a crossover that demonstrates a willingness to handle corners with a degree of composure. Even in wet conditions, the GLB 250 felt sure-footed when pushed moderately on back roads, with the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system effectively distributing power and allowing me to focus on the road ahead. The 7.9 inches of ground clearance, paired with 4MATIC, is more than sufficient for typical driving scenarios and even light off-road adventures. This setup does indeed hint at the GLB 250’s potential as a fun vehicle for events like SCCA RallyCross.
The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system continues to impress with its features and visual appeal. However, it still has quirks. For instance, voice commands can be hit-or-miss; asking to “pair my phone” resulted in directions to the nearest nail salon, repeatedly. Furthermore, on more than one occasion, the navigation system prematurely announced “You have reached your destination” while I was still several turns away from my actual destination. MBUX relies on Here.com for map data, which may not always be the most precise.
The Essence of ‘Mercedes-ness’ in the 2020 GLB 250
I previously used the term “Mercedes-ness” when reviewing the A220, and it feels equally relevant to the GLB 250. There are aspects of the GLB 250 that genuinely feel special and carry the Mercedes-Benz DNA. The interior creates a strong initial impression of luxury, and on paper, the GLB 250 is quite appealing. Its styling is also undeniably attractive. The powertrain is responsive and willing when you demand more performance.
However, the reality is that most GLB 250 owners are unlikely to be rallycrossing their vehicles. Instead, they’ll be using them for daily commutes, errands, and family road trips – the typical SUV duties. And when evaluated purely as a daily driver, the GLB 250’s “Mercedes-ness” becomes somewhat diluted. The engine is adequate, but the dual-clutch transmission can feel slightly unrefined in urban driving conditions. Road and tire noise are noticeable at highway speeds. Touching certain interior trim pieces, like the lower steering wheel spoke or door panel, can reveal minor creaks and squeaks. All of this comes in a package that, when equipped as tested, approaches the price of a more substantial GLC 300.
Having driven a 2018 GLC 300 in the past, I was thoroughly impressed by its overall refinement and “Mercedes-ness”. The GLB 250, in comparison, offers moments of brilliance but ultimately feels less consistently “Mercedes-like.” A price tag in the $50,000 range sets high expectations for interior quality and noise isolation.
While the GLB 250 is based on the A220 platform, and I generally liked the A220, the tested A220 was significantly less expensive – around ten thousand dollars less. The slightly rougher drivetrain character seemed more fitting for the sportier A220 sedan than for the GLB crossover.
It is possible to configure a GLB 250 with 4MATIC for under $50,000, but adding essential options quickly pushes the price from the base of around $36,600 into the mid-$40,000s, which is where the GLC 300 begins. And based on my previous experience, the GLC 300 is likely to deliver a more pronounced “Mercedes-ness.” A subjective, but important, factor.
Ultimately, for those who dream of rallycross adventures but also desire a touch of luxury in their daily driver, and find a classic 190E too small or an older S-Class too cumbersome for off-road fun, the GLB 250 presents itself as a versatile option.
And a final tip: opt for the Bahla Brown leather seats – they will cleverly camouflage any rallycross dust acquired during weekend adventures!
