The 2021 Mercedes-benz Glb-class emerges as a compelling option in the luxury SUV segment, particularly for those seeking a blend of Mercedes-Benz sophistication and surprising versatility in a compact package. This SUV manages to pack in a wealth of features, comfortable interiors, and even optional third-row seating, making it stand out in a crowded market. Let’s delve into a comprehensive review of the 2021 GLB-Class to understand why it might be the ideal luxury SUV for your needs.
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 showcases a stylish front quarter view, emphasizing its luxury SUV design.
Trim Levels and Standard Features: Luxury at Every Step
Mercedes-Benz offers the 2021 GLB-Class in two primary trims: the GLB 250 and the AMG GLB 35. Even the base GLB 250 trim, starting at an MSRP of $38,050 for the front-wheel-drive model, is generously equipped, embodying the luxury expected from the Mercedes-Benz marque. Opting for all-wheel drive (4MATIC®) adds approximately $2,000 to the base price.
Standard features on the GLB 250 include:
- Power-adjustable front seats (8-way) for both driver and passenger
- Dual-zone automatic climate control for personalized comfort
- MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, offering a premium feel
- 7.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with intuitive controls
For those desiring enhanced performance, the AMG GLB 35, starting at $49,500 with standard all-wheel drive, represents a significant step up. This trim boasts a more potent engine and performance-oriented features, including:
- Upgraded engine for increased horsepower and torque
- AMG performance steering wheel with integrated touch control buttons
- Larger 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen for enhanced visuals
- AMG-specific styling and performance enhancements
The interior of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class features comfortable seating and a well-designed dashboard, highlighting its luxurious cabin.
Engine and Performance: Choices for Diverse Driving Needs
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class provides two distinct powertrain options to cater to different driving preferences.
The GLB 250 is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This combination delivers responsive acceleration and ample power for daily driving, highway cruising, and confident merging. While not overtly sporty, it provides a refined and capable driving experience for most drivers.
For enthusiasts seeking a more dynamic driving experience, the AMG GLB 35 features a tuned version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, boosting output to 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Coupled with an AMG-enhanced 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and standard all-wheel drive, the AMG GLB 35 delivers exhilarating acceleration and enhanced handling, making it a more engaging and performance-focused SUV.
A detailed view of the engine bay of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, showcasing the powerful engine options available.
Fuel Efficiency: Balancing Power and Economy
Fuel economy is an important consideration for SUV buyers, and the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class strikes a reasonable balance between performance and efficiency.
The GLB 250 with front-wheel drive achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. The all-wheel-drive version sees a negligible dip, maintaining figures of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. These figures are competitive within the luxury compact SUV segment.
The higher-performance AMG GLB 35 naturally experiences a decrease in fuel economy, with EPA estimates of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. While less efficient than the GLB 250, this is an expected trade-off for the significant performance boost.
A close-up of the fuel tank and cap of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, emphasizing its fuel efficiency for daily commutes and long drives.
Ride Quality and Handling: Comfort and Composure
As a Mercedes-Benz, the 2021 GLB-Class prioritizes passenger comfort and a refined driving experience. The ride is smooth and composed, effectively absorbing road imperfections and providing a comfortable journey even on less-than-perfect surfaces. Cabin noise is minimal, contributing to a relaxed and serene atmosphere for both driver and passengers.
Handling is responsive and balanced, offering a pleasant blend of relaxed cruising and confident cornering. The steering is well-weighted, providing adequate feedback without feeling overly demanding, making it suitable for both city driving and longer highway trips.
The wheel and tire of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, highlighting the vehicle’s smooth and well-mannered ride for a comfortable driving experience.
Interior Space and Seating: Versatility in a Compact Form
One of the most appealing aspects of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is its surprisingly spacious and versatile interior. While classified as a compact SUV, it maximizes interior volume, offering generous space for passengers and cargo.
Standard seating configuration accommodates five passengers comfortably. The optional third-row seating expands capacity to seven, a rare feature in this vehicle class. While the third row is best suited for children or shorter adults and for shorter trips, it adds a significant degree of flexibility for families. The second-row seats offer excellent adjustability, including reclining backrests and fore-and-aft sliding, allowing passengers to optimize legroom and comfort.
The rear seats of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, showcasing the spacious and adjustable seating arrangements for passenger comfort.
Cargo Capacity: Practicality for Everyday Life
Cargo space in the 2021 GLB-Class is commendable, especially considering its compact dimensions. Two-row models offer a generous 27.0 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded.
Three-row models naturally have less cargo space behind the third row (5.1 cubic feet), but this expands to a usable 24.0 cubic feet with the third row folded and a substantial 56.7 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. This versatility makes the GLB-Class a practical choice for families and individuals with active lifestyles.
The trunk space of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, demonstrating the cargo capacity and practicality for various needs.
Infotainment and Technology: User-Friendly and Advanced
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class incorporates the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, known for its intuitive interface and advanced features. Standard features include a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. The system can be controlled via touchscreen, steering wheel controls, a touchpad, or the innovative voice control system activated by saying “Hey, Mercedes.”
A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is available as an option on the GLB 250 and standard on the AMG GLB 35. The MBUX system excels in natural language understanding, allowing for conversational voice commands, making it user-friendly and reducing driver distraction.
The infotainment screen of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, highlighting the user-friendly and advanced technology features.
Safety Features: Comprehensive Protection
Mercedes-Benz prioritizes safety, and the 2021 GLB-Class is equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard and available safety features. Standard safety equipment includes:
- Automatic emergency braking for collision mitigation
- Attention Assist to monitor driver drowsiness
- Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Assist for enhanced awareness
- Crosswind Assist for stability in strong winds
Optional advanced safety features include:
- Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC® for adaptive cruise control
- Active Steering Assist for lane keeping and semi-autonomous driving
- Evasive Steering Assist to aid in emergency maneuvers
- Active Brake Assist with Cross-Traffic Function for enhanced collision avoidance
- Active Emergency Stop Assist for driver monitoring and safe stop in emergencies
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded the 2021 GLB-Class an overall 5-star safety rating for all-wheel-drive models and 4-star for front-wheel-drive models, reflecting its robust safety performance.
A display of the safety features in the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, emphasizing the comprehensive protection offered to drivers and passengers.
Conclusion: A Standout Compact Luxury SUV
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class successfully carves out a unique position in the luxury compact SUV segment. It offers a compelling combination of Mercedes-Benz luxury, surprising versatility with optional seven-passenger seating, and practical cargo space, all within a maneuverable and stylish package. Whether you prioritize fuel efficiency and everyday comfort with the GLB 250 or seek enhanced performance with the AMG GLB 35, the 2021 GLB-Class presents a well-rounded and appealing option. Its refined interior, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features further solidify its position as a top contender in its class. For those in the market for a compact luxury SUV that delivers more than expected, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is definitely worth considering and taking for a test drive.
The rear view of the Mercedes-Benz GLB Class, completing the overview of its stylish and versatile design as a luxury SUV.
