Mercedes’ most polarising compact SUV has been reborn! The previous #GLB was practical but awkward to look at, lacking the style of the A-Class/CLA and the presence of the GLC. But with the arrival of the new CLA, #Mercedes has now rebuilt the GLB from the ground up — and I think it’s a big glow-up!
This 2026 GLB sits on the all-new MMA platform, which comes as either petrol hybrid or a full 800-volt EV, and remains one of the few SUVs in the segment to offer 5 or 7 seats. Most importantly: it finally looks and feels like a modern Mercedes should.
In today’s First Look, we break down both versions of the new GLB — combustion mild hybrid and full EV — to understand how different they are underneath, how the new packaging works, and why this generation is far more family-focused than before. We explore design, interior upgrades, all seating configurations, the technical changes, and everything the press material reveals about efficiency, motors, batteries and range.
Mercedes has also taken major steps with rear accommodation, cargo space, and child-seat support. The GLB now grows by almost 10 cm, with most of that benefitting second and third-row passengers. And unlike rivals, it offers up to four child seats across rows two and three, plus one more up front — extremely rare in this class.
We’ll cover:
The complete redesign of the 2026 GLB
New hybrid models with 48V architecture and M252 engine
All-new eDCT gearbox with integrated 30 hp electric motor
Expected Variants: GLB 180 / 200 / 220
EV: GLB 250+ and 350 4MATIC
Suspension setups: passive and adaptive damping
Seating: 5 or 7 seats with improved access and comfort
Child-seat compatibility across all rows
Real cargo-space
Interior design, materials, and practicality upgrades
MB OS system
Upcoming New GLA
The new GLB represents the third body style in #MercedesBenz’s next-generation compact family and the most spacious option by far. It addresses the shortcomings of the previous model with improved styling, better packaging, serious EV tech, and a much more thoughtful approach to family usability.
Both versions — combustion hybrid and EV — feel genuinely competitive in today’s market, offering flexibility, range, efficiency and the rare option of seven seats. As hoped, the CLA has set off a domino effect inside Mercedes, and this GLB shows the brand moving back towards a user-focused, versatile compact lineup!
