The forthcoming Mercedes-Benz GLB compact SUV has been spotted again, and now our spy photographer sources have managed to get a glimpse into the car as well. Positioned to go toe-to-toe with the likes of the BMW X1 and X2 at the entry point of premium SUV segment, the GLB has been tipped to be offered in five- and seven-seater configurations.
Based on the same MFA2 platform for transverse-mounted, FWD-oriented drivetrain layout, which underpins the W177 A-Class and W247 B-Class, the GLB can be expected to share its engine and gearbox options with those cars. These are likely to include 2.0 litre petrol and 1.5 litre diesel units, although it remains to be seen if it will stay with the current seven-speed wet-dual-clutch automatic, or if it will take on the newer 8G-DCT dual-clutch unit as featured in the more potent versions of W247 B-Class diesels.
Likewise on the inside, the GLB appears to adopt the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) touchscreen in its dashboard, bringing it in line with the latest crop of Mercedes-Benz models. A range of specifications can be expected, as on the A-Class and B-Class where a range of seven-inch and 10.25-inch displays can be specified. In here, the same three-vent layout for the air-conditioning continues, as does most of the centre console architecture with the split-opening compartment lid.
Coming back to the GLB’s exterior, it appears to be in much the same state of camouflage as the last time we spotted one, where we could see a more squared-off posture particularly in its wheel arches, more angular headlamps and a more upright glasshouse, more akin to that of the GLS SUV. There’s some time to go before the GLB makes its official debut, which is tipped to be the middle of 2019.
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Wow, looks good. Nothing like Mercedes quality.