Pros
- Rugged (and practical) shape
- Comfortable ride
- Optional third row
Cons
- Showing its age
- Anemic feature set
- Too much plastic inside
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class makes for a stylish runabout, and its optional third row is a rarity in this class. Now entering its seventh year on the market, the GLB is taking one last lap before it rides off into the sunset; a redesigned model is coming soon.
The GLB-Class is a bit of a ‘tweener, but we think it’s best compared to subcompact mini-utes like the BMW X1 or Volvo XC40.
What’s New
- New no-cost upholstery options
- Sun & Sound package bundles sunroof and premium audio
- Blacked-out Night package available as either standalone option or part of Midnight Edition
What We Think
The GLB-Class carves out a niche in a funny in-between zone. It’s larger than true subcompacts like the Volvo XC40 or the mechanically related GLA-Class but smaller than compact crossovers like the XC60 or BMW X3.
No matter what you call it, we like the GLB’s shape. The boxy styling lends the crossover a craggy charm, and it helps cargo capacity, too. Now that the powertrains have added a mild hybrid assist, acceleration is respectable. It’s hard to call the GLB sporty, but the suspension effectively balances comfort with neutral handling.
Perhaps the GLB’s biggest sin is that it fails to stand out. It’s inoffensive, but it’s not particularly fun, luxurious, or value-packed. To the contrary, cheap cabin materials and an aging platform have allowed rivals to beat Mercedes at its own game. The GLB’s best selling point may be its optional third row, which (though small) is a trick most peers can’t match.
The electric EQB-Class has now been discontinued, and the GLB-Class is likewise due for replacement. It’s not a bad car, but its time is up. We look forward to the next generation.
Top-Ranked Competitors:
MotorTrend Tested
The GLB-Class sticks to a tried-and-true formula based around a 2.0-liter turbo-four engine. In 2024, Mercedes-Benz added a mild hybrid assist, which enhanced both performance and efficiency.
The base GLB250 (available with FWD or AWD) makes 221 hp and 258 lb-ft. Mercedes-Benz expects a 0–60 time of 6.9 seconds, but a GLB250 4Matic needed just 6.2 seconds on our test track. That’s reasonable for the class but still not as quick as either a BMW X1 or a Volvo XC40.
The AMG GLB35 cranks the turbo-four up to 302 hp and 295 lb-ft. Mercedes expects a 0–60 time of 5.4 seconds, but we expect that’s conservative, as well. We drove this model back in 2021, and although it’s undeniably fun, the suspension is harsh.
MPGs and Range
Petite engines and a mild hybrid assist help the GLB-Class make the most of its fuel tank. In RWD form, the base GLB250 gets an EPA-estimated 25/33 mpg city/highway. The GLB250 4Matic is only a touch worse at 24/33 mpg, and it boasts an impressive 429 miles of range.
Even the AMG GLB35 is reasonably efficient. The EPA estimates that the zippy crossover will do 21/27 mpg, although range falls to 366 miles.
Safety Ratings and Features
- IIHS has yet to test the GLB-Class, but the NHTSA awarded it four to five stars overall in previous years. Most of the best safety tech comes standard, although some driver aids remain optional. Safety features include:
Automatic emergency braking - Blind-spot monitoring
- Automatic high-beams
- Rain-sensing wipers
- Driver attention monitor
- Optional adaptive cruise control
- Optional lane keeping assist
Cargo Space and Interior Room
The GLB’s pleasantly boxy exterior has another perk: It’s among the most practical luxury crossovers in this size bracket. Total cargo space and rear legroom are both generous compared to rivals.
Although the 2026 GLB does offer a third row, access to it and space once you’re there are not great.
| Legroom (front/second rows) | Cargo Space (behind second/first rows) | |
| 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class | 41.1/38.1 inches | 22/62 cubic feet |
| 2026 Volvo XC40 | 40.9/36.1 inches | 20.1/57.5 cubic feet |
| 2025 Audi Q3 | 40.0/36.1 inches | 23.7/48.0 cubic feet |
Technology
Infotainment
- Infotainment in the 2026 GLB runs through a central 10.3-inch touchscreen, which matches the driver’s 10.3-inch digital gauge cluster. Voice activation and wireless smartphone compatibility are included, but navigation and Wi-Fi aren’t. Other options include:
Biometric setting profiles - Wireless charging
- Head-up display
- Sound System
Standard eight-speaker audio - Optional 12-speaker Burmester surround sound audio with Dolby Atmos support
Value
Standard Features
The GLB’s feature set includes a few welcome perks, but we’d say it’s closer to the bare minimum for this price range. We appreciate having remote start and a power liftgate, but features like wireless charging and heated seats come standard on many more affordable crossovers.
- Optional features include:
Heated front seats - Leather upholstery
- Third-row seating
- LED ambient lighting
Recommended Trim
Given its age and feature set, we think shoppers are best off keeping costs to a minimum. We’d start with the base GLB250 (with AWD for snow states) then add a few tech perks like wireless charging and a 360-degree camera.
One of the GLB’s best selling points is its third row. It’s only usable for children, but for families who want to stick to a smaller vehicle, the GLB-Class has few true rivals.
