Why the new model 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB is very far from “G”
Mercedes decided how it will look in the GLB model in life
It seems that on the road too many crossovers and all kinds of SUV. This is especially noticeable in the USA, where pickups and SUVs of various steadily occupy the largest niche. But as practice shows, the brands that does not stop from the introduction of new products in this direction.
In 2019 lineup of renowned German automaker from Stuttgart will replenish one unique model – she was given the name of GLB. And despite the fact that it according to dimensions and cost parameters shall be established between compact crossover models GLA and GLC, to call it as such is not likely to succeed, at least because of her appearance. But also hope that the GLB will be a kind of “mini G”, the dreamers is also worth keeping. 2020 GLB is not a SUV, but a crossover in an unusual coat.*
*In the press, right after Mercedes released the first details about the new product, instantly there was speculation that this car will be in some way “mini G”. Assumptions were varied to the extent that the model will form the frame structure. The latter of course is not exactly true, but to outline confirmed at this stage, the formation of new technical information is still worth it, especially because the influence of “G-Class” for the model is still visible, alas, only in appearance.
Powerful “big” Mercedes-Benz GLB
In a network “the Internet” has long walk multiple pictures of this custom SUV. Initial impressions tell us that a big influence on him the new G-Class. In the style of the front is dominated by a streamlined hood, under the Dazzle camouflage visible square headlights and wide, rectangular grille.
Body with five-seater salon has a modern unusual ideas about beauty, a bit “quadratic” form. In their visual analysis there is a feeling that before us is a kind of cross between good old GLK the past years and the same “G”. Moreover, the influence of the latter is more elusive aesthetic nature than an obvious borrowing.
If a little deeper into the details of the exterior, it should also be stressed that the novelty has quite smooth lines body surfaces. No severe folds, no broken lines. On the contrary, the Board on the new GLB – monotonically smooth. The rear portion of the crossover also looks outside the box for a compact model. It is installed horizontal led lights and “a hodgepodge” of styles from different Mercedes-Benz models. If a quick look – it seems we GLS scale A-Class. In General, this is not casual.
AMG versions will differ the big wheels and brakes, an aggressive front fascia and signature grille Panamericana.
Inside the GLA crossover will appear the passenger compartment from the A-Class
A large part of the interior is closely connected with the A-Class, which has a modern combination of advanced technology and a luxurious ambiance in a compact form. Noticeable familiar signals – triple vents blowing, three-spoke multifunction steering wheel and a trackpad on the centre console. A large 10.25-inch dual MBUX screen infotainment system, as before equipped with a large number of functions, a high-definition display and satellite navigation with “augmented reality.”
Technically, the new GLB is installed on the front-/all-wheel drive MFA2 platform (Modular Front Architecture), which can be found on the A-Class, CLA and B-Class. Through its use, the seats should be more than enough, and the handling should be great. However, foreign experts warn that novelty should not be confused with real off-roaders or track supercars in the back crossovers. And this is despite having quite powerful motors. More about this will tell you right now.
Wide range of engines for the new SUV
The start-up range (for European market) will start with a very small 1.4 litre, four-cylinder gasoline engine with turbo and 1.5-liter turbodiesel engine rated at 114 HP (85 kW). Then follows a pretty standard middling with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing about 190 horsepower and 299 nm of torque. Plug-in hybrid and all-electric option, the EQB will also appear in the lineup, but later.
For those who want more power, AMG will offer sorbirovannoe 2.0-liter “four” from Mercedes-AMG A35. In this format, the total capacity of 302 horsepower (225 kW), and all of it will transfer to all four wheels via a seven-speed automatic transmission with double clutch. According to unofficial data, the maximum option GLB 45 will differ by more than 400 HP under the hood. But again, despite the outstanding power, the model is not automatically transferred to the category of racing cars.
Start time sales and rivals
The brand new model GLB debut in September of this year at the Frankfurt motor show. Sales in most markets will start in the first quarter of 2020.
Rivals include the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Range Rover Evoque, Volvo XC40, the Cadillac XT4, Jaguar E-Pace and the Lexus UX.
Thus, as can be seen, 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB is not G-Class, but rather it is a standard all-wheel drive A-Class in an unusual body.