2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250

2023 GLB 250 Photos
 Editors' Pick
Autoblog Rating
8

The GLB-Class is supremely utilitarian, looks cute and drives well. Its AMG 35 variant is a proper, little performance crossover that only adds to the model's appeal.

Industry
8
Pros: Huge space and great mpg for its segment; high-style interior; spunky AMG 35 Cons: Infotainment system can overwhelm Most small luxury SUVs are difficult to recommend. They’re usually too small, too chintzy and too unrefined for the prices they command. We’d normally recommend getting a well-equipped and more spacious non-luxury SUV instead. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is an exception. It’s distinctive, versatile and stylish in a way that its competitors are not. It may start north of $40,000, but it looks, feels and performs like it should cost that much. There’s actual value beyond that fancy three-pointed emblem, and we thoroughly recommend it as a result. A big reason for the GLB's transcendent appeal is its extra-large size for the segment and extra-boxy shape. Add in the versatility of a sliding back seat, and you have a subcompact SUV with a midsize SUV's interior space. We were stunned by how much its cargo area could swallow. However, besides the cabin's packaging, its striking design stands out in a segment that often comes across as a bit cheap. The bold rotary air vents and pretty dual-screen infotainment system carry a lot of the weight, but materials quality is better than average for the segment, too. And although the GLB is indeed built to a price on less sophisticated bones than its pricier, more refined GLC sibling, we think it's a drop-off that's more than fair for the price. In fact, we can easily see someone happily choosing a GLB over a GLC just because they like it better, with saving money as a bonus. We can't say the same thing about a BMW X1, Audi Q3, Lexus UX or even the Mercedes-Benz GLA. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? The GLB is unchanged for 2023, but its all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQB sibling does debut. What are the GLB interior and in-car technology like? Mercedes-Benz put quite a bit of thought into the GLB’s interior packaging. It offers lots of clever storage in both the passenger cabin and cargo area, making it more practical than most luxury offerings in this segment (and indeed many others). The GLB’s driving position is excellent, and its front- and second-row seats are comfortable and supportive with plenty of adjustment. The GLB is on the inexpensive side for a Mercedes-Benz, but the quality of materials and available options are on par or better for expectations at this price point. The fancier options will drive up the price, of course, but even the fundamental components are high-quality and precise. Every GLB includes the last iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment suite, which is controlled by your choice of a central touchscreen (7 inch standard, 10.25 inch available), center console touchpad, steering wheel controls and natural-language commands. While we like this "have it your way approach" and appreciate this system's rapid responses and pretty graphics, it just …
Full Review
Pros: Huge space and great mpg for its segment; high-style interior; spunky AMG 35 Cons: Infotainment system can overwhelm Most small luxury SUVs are difficult to recommend. They’re usually too small, too chintzy and too unrefined for the prices they command. We’d normally recommend getting a well-equipped and more spacious non-luxury SUV instead. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is an exception. It’s distinctive, versatile and stylish in a way that its competitors are not. It may start north of $40,000, but it looks, feels and performs like it should cost that much. There’s actual value beyond that fancy three-pointed emblem, and we thoroughly recommend it as a result. A big reason for the GLB's transcendent appeal is its extra-large size for the segment and extra-boxy shape. Add in the versatility of a sliding back seat, and you have a subcompact SUV with a midsize SUV's interior space. We were stunned by how much its cargo area could swallow. However, besides the cabin's packaging, its striking design stands out in a segment that often comes across as a bit cheap. The bold rotary air vents and pretty dual-screen infotainment system carry a lot of the weight, but materials quality is better than average for the segment, too. And although the GLB is indeed built to a price on less sophisticated bones than its pricier, more refined GLC sibling, we think it's a drop-off that's more than fair for the price. In fact, we can easily see someone happily choosing a GLB over a GLC just because they like it better, with saving money as a bonus. We can't say the same thing about a BMW X1, Audi Q3, Lexus UX or even the Mercedes-Benz GLA. Interior & Technology   |   Passenger & Cargo Space   |   Performance & Fuel Economy What it's like to drive   |   Pricing & Trim Levels   |   Crash Ratings & Safety Features What's new for 2023? The GLB is unchanged for 2023, but its all-electric Mercedes-Benz EQB sibling does debut. What are the GLB interior and in-car technology like? Mercedes-Benz put quite a bit of thought into the GLB’s interior packaging. It offers lots of clever storage in both the passenger cabin and cargo area, making it more practical than most luxury offerings in this segment (and indeed many others). The GLB’s driving position is excellent, and its front- and second-row seats are comfortable and supportive with plenty of adjustment. The GLB is on the inexpensive side for a Mercedes-Benz, but the quality of materials and available options are on par or better for expectations at this price point. The fancier options will drive up the price, of course, but even the fundamental components are high-quality and precise. Every GLB includes the last iteration of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment suite, which is controlled by your choice of a central touchscreen (7 inch standard, 10.25 inch available), center console touchpad, steering wheel controls and natural-language commands. While we like this "have it your way approach" and appreciate this system's rapid responses and pretty graphics, it just …
Hide Full Review

Retail Price

$39,800 - $41,800 MSRP / Window Sticker Price
Engine 2.0L I-4
MPG Up to 24 city / 32 highway
Seating 5 Passengers
Transmission 8-spd auto-shift man w/OD
Power 221 @ 5500 rpm
Drivetrain 4MATIC all wheel, front-wheel
Curb Weight 3,638 - 3,759 lbs
Smart Buy Program is powered by powered by TrueCar®
Autoblog Advertisement