The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB has arrived, and it is making a bold entrance by launching in its electric avatar first. Taking over from the now-discontinued EQB, the fresh GLB brings a complete overhaul of design, technology and efficiency. Just like the latest CLA and GLC launches, Mercedes continues its strategy of introducing EV versions before hybrids, but this time the brand has made an especially strong case with the GLB’s impressive range and fast-charging capabilities.
At the heart of the new electric GLB lineup are two variants: the GLB 250+ with EQ Technology and the more powerful GLB 350 4Matic with EQ Technology. Both versions share an 85 kWh battery pack and an 800-volt architecture. This setup doesn’t just support better thermal efficiency and reduced charging losses, but also unlocks super-fast charging rates of up to 320 kW. In practical terms, plugging in for ten minutes can add around 260 km of driving range. For long-distance users or families planning road trips, this drastically cuts down the waiting time at fast chargers.
Range anxiety shouldn’t be of much concern here. The GLB 250+ delivers an impressive 630 km on a single charge, while the dual-motor GLB 350 4Matic still manages up to 615 km despite additional power and all-wheel-drive capability. These numbers position the GLB squarely against top-tier competitors, especially the Tesla Model Y, which it rivals not just in performance but also in dimensions, space and brand value.
Power delivery in the GLB family is well balanced between efficiency and performance. The GLB 250+ uses a single rear-mounted motor producing 268 bhp and 335 Nm of torque, achieving 0–100 kmph in 7.4 seconds. For buyers wanting more punch, the GLB 350 4Matic adds a second motor up front, pushing output to 349 bhp and 515 Nm. This brings the acceleration time down to an impressive 5.5 seconds. Additionally, the all-wheel-drive variant can tow up to 2000 kg, making it a practical choice for customers with active lifestyles or outdoor hobbies.
One of the standout engineering upgrades is the sophisticated tri-source heat pump system, adapted from the Vision EQXX concept car. This system can draw heat simultaneously from the electric drive unit, the battery and the surrounding air. The result is ultra-efficient cabin heating, especially in harsh winter climates. Mercedes claims that in temperatures of around −7°C, the new GLB heats the interior twice as fast as the previous EQB while consuming half the energy. It starts warming the cabin automatically the moment someone enters the vehicle, focusing on the upper body and hands first for quicker comfort. This improvement represents a major leap in EV usability, especially for cold-weather markets.
Step inside the GLB and you’ll notice the interior has evolved significantly. Borrowing inspiration from the new CLA, the cabin can be equipped with the futuristic MBUX Superscreen layout that spans from driver to passenger. This setup includes a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a large 14-inch central infotainment display and an additional 14-inch screen for the front passenger. The interface runs on the latest MB.OS operating system, which integrates navigation data from Google Maps and blends artificial intelligence from Microsoft Bing Search and ChatGPT-4o. The goal is to deliver smarter responses, more natural conversations and deeper contextual understanding.
The GLB’s virtual assistant aims to be more intuitive and conversational, acting almost like a human companion for navigation, vehicle control and general queries. Mercedes has made it clear that they want the car to feel like a tech-forward personal assistant rather than just a machine. This aligns with the brand’s larger shift toward software-led experiences, ensuring that the vehicle grows smarter with updates over time.
Space and practicality have also seen substantial enhancements. The wheelbase has been stretched by 60 mm compared to its predecessor, resulting in improved legroom for all passengers. A panoramic glass roof comes standard, contributing to a roomier feel and increased headroom. Customers can opt for the seven-seat layout, which makes the GLB one of the few electric SUVs in its class to offer genuine third-row usability. The middle row also gets a sliding bench for better flexibility. Cargo space stands at 540 liters in the five-seat version and 480 liters in the seven-seat configuration. There is even a 127-liter frunk for smaller bags or charging accessories.
On the outside, the GLB retains the boxy, muscular stance of the previous model but with modernized touches. The illuminated star-studded front grille, connected rear LED lightbar and flush door handles add a futuristic edge to the familiar silhouette. High-performance LED headlights enhance visibility while maintaining the brand’s signature design language.
In terms of pricing, the GLB 250+ is expected to start at just under €60,000 (around ₹63 lakh) in Germany, with the GLB 350 4Matic positioned slightly above it. These figures position the GLB competitively against the Tesla Model Y, offering superior luxury credentials and a richer feature list. For buyers seeking a premium electric SUV with seven-seat capability, long-range practicality and high-end technology, the GLB is shaping up to be a compelling pick.
With its efficient powertrain, advanced AI features, practical interior and fast charging capabilities, the new Mercedes-Benz GLB electric brings together luxury and functionality for modern EV users. It is set to arrive in the United States next year, with exact pricing announced closer to the launch. The GLB stands as a strong indicator of Mercedes’ evolving EV roadmap, blending innovation with everyday usability in a way few competitors currently match.
