By [Your Name] – Expert Automotive Content Creator at cardetailinguk.com
The 2020 Mercedes-benz Glb-class emerges as a compelling contender in the luxury compact SUV segment, surprising many with its impressive blend of practicality, comfort, and cutting-edge technology. Positioned strategically between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC, the GLB carves out its own niche with a distinctive boxy design reminiscent of the iconic G-Class, yet maintaining a more approachable and urban-friendly profile. Don’t let its seemingly compact dimensions fool you; the GLB offers remarkable interior space and versatility that sets it apart from its rivals.
Advantages of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
- Generous passenger and cargo room, maximizing practicality.
- Impressive performance for daily driving and beyond.
- Exceptional ride quality and seat comfort, even on longer journeys.
- Packed with advanced technology and user-friendly convenience features.
Potential Drawbacks
- Driving dynamics prioritize comfort over sporty engagement.
- The extensive options list can significantly increase the vehicle’s price.
What’s Fresh for the 2020 GLB?
- The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a brand-new model, introducing a fresh perspective to the lineup.
- It fills a unique size gap, being more spacious than the GLA but more manageable than the GLC.
- An optional third-row seat expands passenger capacity, a rarity in this class.
- This model marks the debut of the first GLB generation for the 2020 model year.
A Comprehensive Overview
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class has truly taken us by surprise with its well-rounded capabilities and thoughtful design. Slipping into the Mercedes-Benz SUV hierarchy between the subcompact GLA and the more substantial and costly GLC, the GLB distinguishes itself with a boxier, more upright silhouette. This design subtly echoes the prestigious G-Class, while its overall proportions and lower stance project a sense of urban agility.
Driving Costs of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
To give you an idea of running costs, let’s consider the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class GLB 250 4dr SUV (equipped with a 2.0L 4-cylinder Turbo 8AM engine). Fuel cost estimations are based on an annual mileage of 15,000 miles, with a driving split of 55% city and 45% highway. We’ve used a premium unleaded fuel price of $3.85 per gallon, based on figures from North Dakota.
Estimated Monthly Fuel Costs (North Dakota):
$184/month for GLB-Class GLB 250
Comparison:
GLB-Class GLB 250 vs. $178/month (Average Midsize SUV)
Calculate Your Personalized Fuel Costs
The GLB’s broad appeal stems significantly from its commitment to passenger comfort and advanced technology integration. The ride quality in the GLB is noticeably more forgiving than many SUVs in its category, and the seating is engineered for exceptional comfort, even on extended drives. As a contemporary vehicle, the 2020 GLB benefits from Mercedes-Benz’s suite of state-of-the-art safety technologies and driver-assistance systems. It also boasts the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, widely recognized for its industry-leading voice command functionality, making in-car interactions intuitive and seamless.
However, it’s worth noting that the base GLB 250 model isn’t designed for high-performance driving thrills. For most drivers, its performance is more than adequate for everyday needs. However, driving enthusiasts may anticipate future AMG variants for a more spirited driving experience. Price is another factor to consider. While the GLB starts at an attractive price point, opting for numerous available features and packages can escalate the overall cost considerably.
In conclusion, we believe the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class presents a more compelling package than many similarly priced subcompact SUVs and even rivals some larger, more expensive models. We confidently recommend it as a strong alternative to the BMW X1, Volvo XC40, and Audi Q3. It even poses a significant challenge to the Mercedes GLC in most aspects, save for ultimate interior refinement. We are confident that you, like us, will be thoroughly impressed by the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB.
Edmunds Expert Vehicle Rating
Our Expert Verdict: The Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team rigorously evaluates a wide array of vehicles each week, combining objective assessments at our dedicated test track with real-world driving experiences on city streets, highways, and winding roads. The wealth of data collected informs our Expert Ratings, which are based on over 30 distinct scores encompassing every facet of the automotive experience.
Great
8.1 / 10
Edmunds expert testing badge indicating vehicle evaluation.
The GLB stands out as an appealing luxury SUV, particularly considering its price point. Its boxy design not only gives it a distinctive aesthetic but also maximizes passenger and cargo space. Coupled with some of the most advanced technology features available in the market, the GLB solidifies its position as one of the premier small luxury SUVs available.
Rated for you by America’s best test team.
Performance Analysis
8/10
Driving Dynamics: How does the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class perform on the road? In our comprehensive testing, the GLB 250 achieved a 0-60 mph sprint in just 6.5 seconds. This acceleration time is not only rapid but also places it at the forefront of its class in terms of speed. While full-throttle acceleration reveals a slight delay before the power fully kicks in, a more measured pedal input results in smooth and responsive acceleration from a standstill. The GLB isn’t engineered to be a sports car, but it offers more than sufficient capability for the vast majority of SUV drivers. The braking system in the GLB is noteworthy for its ease of modulation, allowing for smooth and controlled stops in everyday driving, and delivering impressive stopping power in emergency braking scenarios. When navigating corners, the GLB maintains a planted and confident feel, inspiring driver confidence.
Comfort Assessment
8.5/10
Ride and Seating Comfort: How comfortable is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class for passengers? The optional multicontour seats, equipped with ventilation and heating, deliver exceptional comfort even on long, multi-hour journeys. While marketed as a massage function, it subtly adjusts the seatback and cushion angles to redistribute pressure points. This innovative feature is designed to minimize discomfort during extended periods of driving. The rear seats are positioned slightly lower and are shorter in depth, which may result in slightly less thigh support for taller passengers, although this is a minor point. The suspension in Comfort mode is tuned to the softer side, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface. While it can exhibit a slight floaty sensation over larger undulations in the road, it remains far from unsettling. Switching to Sport mode firms up the suspension, reducing body roll without compromising ride harshness. The cabin environment is remarkably quiet at highway speeds, even on roads with coarser surfaces, enhancing overall passenger comfort.
Interior Design and Features
8.5/10
Cabin and Controls: What is the interior of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class like? The GLB’s elevated ride height and generously sized door openings facilitate effortless entry and exit. There’s no need to climb up or stoop down; simply slide into the seats. Once inside, the layout of controls is immediately intuitive, and after a short familiarization period, operation becomes second nature, allowing drivers to keep their attention on the road. The GLB’s boxy exterior translates directly into generous interior space, surpassing many of its competitors in terms of passenger and cargo volume. Large windows contribute to excellent outward visibility, enhancing the driving experience and safety. A minor drawback is the sun visors, which are somewhat undersized and don’t offer complete coverage when moved to the side to block sunlight.
Technology and Connectivity
8.5/10
Infotainment and Driver Aids: How advanced is the technology in the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class? The GLB excels in its technology offerings. It comes standard with Mercedes-Benz’s acclaimed MBUX infotainment system, along with seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. MBUX is celebrated as one of the most user-friendly and capable systems available, offering multiple control methods for vehicle functions. The voice command system is remarkably accurate, although it may occasionally require a moment to process commands. The driver-assistance features in the GLB are particularly refined. The adaptive cruise control system performs exceptionally well in diverse driving conditions, from heavy stop-and-go highway traffic to cruising on open roads. The lane-keeping assist system is generally effective, though it can sometimes be slightly overzealous in its attempts to maintain lane position, a situation that is infrequent.
Storage and Cargo Capacity
8/10
Cargo and Practicality: How practical is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class for storage? The GLB effectively leverages its boxy shape to maximize cargo capacity. It can easily accommodate large and bulky items, and the low cargo floor lift-over height, combined with the standard power liftgate, simplifies loading and unloading. Interior storage for personal items is also well-considered, with spacious door pockets and a generously sized center console bin. Clever spring-loaded cupholder tabs ensure secure placement for narrower beverage containers. For families, the GLB is a practical choice. A rear-facing infant car seat can be installed, but it requires sliding the rear seats fully back and positioning the front seats reasonably forward. During testing, we noted that some car seat bases were slightly challenging to latch onto the GLB’s car-seat anchor points.
Fuel Efficiency
7.5/10
MPG and Real-World Economy: How fuel-efficient is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class? The EPA estimates the fuel economy at 26 mpg combined (23 city/31 highway), making the GLB slightly more efficient than many of its direct competitors. During our 115-mile evaluation drive, we recorded 26 mpg, which is slightly below expectations but still a commendable result. We anticipate that achieving the EPA figures is attainable with a conservative driving style.
Value Proposition
7.5/10
Pricing and Features: Is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class a good value for money? The GLB strategically bridges the gap between the more compact and affordable GLA and the slightly larger and pricier GLC. It presents itself as an attractive option, provided buyers are aware of its positioning. Selecting numerous optional features can significantly inflate the final price, potentially pushing it into the price range of the more refined GLC. Compared to other extra-small luxury SUVs, the GLB commands a slightly higher price, but it justifies this with increased space, enhanced performance, and superior comfort. As is common in this vehicle class, some material choices in the interior may feel somewhat budget-oriented, but overall, the GLB delivers a sense of value commensurate with its price.
Wildcard Appeal
8/10
Styling and Driving Character: What are the unique aspects of the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class? The GLB’s upright and boxy styling imparts a more traditional and utilitarian SUV aesthetic, which we find appealing. Is the GLB exhilarating to drive? Not in its current GLB 250 guise. However, this is primarily because we’ve only evaluated the GLB 250 model thus far. AMG variants are anticipated to join the lineup in the future, which should cater to drivers seeking a more dynamic and engaging driving experience.
Edmunds Recommendation: Which 2020 GLB-Class Model to Choose?
For a wide range of buyers, the base GLB 250 model represents an excellent choice. For those residing in regions with frequent inclement weather, the GLB 250 4Matic, with its all-wheel-drive system, is a particularly smart upgrade. For either model, we strongly recommend including the Premium and Driver Assistance packages, which significantly enhance the vehicle with valuable safety and convenience features.
Explore 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Trim Levels – Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Model Lineup
The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is categorized as a small entry-level luxury SUV with standard five-passenger seating. An optional third-row seat configuration increases the passenger capacity to seven, although the third row is best suited for smaller occupants.
The GLB is offered in two primary trim levels: the base GLB 250 and the GLB 250 4Matic, the latter adding all-wheel drive capability. Both models are powered by a responsive turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Standard feature highlights include energy-efficient LED headlights, a convenient power liftgate, premium simulated leather upholstery, versatile 40/20/40-split rear seats with sliding and reclining functionalities, the advanced Mercedes-Benz MBUX infotainment system, and seamless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. For enhanced safety, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking is also included as standard.
Several thoughtfully curated optional equipment packages are available to further customize the GLB. Among these, we highly recommend the Premium package, which adds blind-spot monitoring, upgraded larger 10.25-inch displays, auto-dimming and power-folding mirrors, a hands-free liftgate for added convenience, and keyless entry. The Driver Assistance package is another worthwhile addition, incorporating adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, evasive steering assist, emergency stop assist, and active speed limit assist.
Among the stand-alone options for the GLB 250, consider the adaptive dampers for a slightly more responsive and sporty handling feel. Other notable individual options include luxurious leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats for enhanced comfort, and a high-fidelity Burmester premium sound system for audiophiles.
Edmunds Latest Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class News
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