2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 Review & Test Drive - One of the Best Small Luxury SUVs?
Автокөліктер мен көлік құралдары
See our full review on the Mercedes-Benz GLB 250: www.edmunds.com/mercedes-benz...
It's not often that Edmunds editors are caught off guard, but the all-new 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 did exactly that. Senior Reviews Editor Mark Takahashi logged several hundred miles behind the wheel of the GLB and ended up as surprised as he was impressed by the new small SUV. With pleasant driving dynamics, smart packaging and loads of technology, it handily beats everything in the luxury subcompact crossover class and even challenges the top-ranked Mercedes GLC in the next largest segment.
2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB Review
The new Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 is an all-new crossover SUV that slots in between the subcompact GLA and the larger GLC. Initially, we questioned whether this sort of half-size between segments was really necessary. But after spending considerable time with the GLB, we're glad it exists on a number of levels.
The GLB sets itself apart from other SUVs in the Mercedes stable with its upright, boxy shape that faintly mimics the larger and pricier G-Class. The proportions and lower ride height make it seem smaller than it is. In reality, it's closer in size to the GLC.
The 2020 GLB 250 finds a seemingly perfect middle ground between the too-small subcompact crossover class and SUVs such as the GLC. Taking into account that the GLB costs $5,900 less than the GLC, we consider it a best-in-class contender. With an available third row of seats - a rarity - the GLB is one of the most versatile vehicles in any class.
Around town, the Mercedes GLB gathers speed smoothly and predictably. It hesitates just a bit if you mash the gas from a stop, but that's quickly followed by pleasing acceleration. Mercedes estimates the GLB 250 will accelerate to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds, which means it gets up to speed confidently without feeling as though you're putting undue stress on the drive components.
Handling isn't what we'd consider sporty or fun, but it's capable and it instills driver confidence. Based on our initial testing, our main takeaway is that the GLB is impressively easy to drive. For the expected GLB buyer, we contend that's more important.
The GLB's boxy shape does wonders for interior volume compared to the more fluidly styled vehicles in the Mercedes lineup. There's a sense of vertical space in the front seats that reminds us of the cavernous G-wagen. The tall windows add to the airy sensation.
The rear seats are curiously less accommodating. The seat cushions are mounted lower to the floor, reducing thigh support for adult-size passengers. Rear headroom is also noticeably lower, though it's still suitable for taller occupants. Unfortunately, we did not get any exposure to the available third-row seats, but it's a fair assumption that they're only suitable for small children.
The GLB 250 garners high praise for driver and front passenger comfort. In our initial testing, we drove the GLB for about eight hours on the highway, and fatigue never set in. Notably, the optional multicontour seats with heating and ventilation are some of the most comfortable we've experienced over long distances. A rudimentary massage function frequently alters the angle of the seatback and cushion to shift your contact points. The moves are subtle but effective.
The cockpit's general layout and design are very similar to the A-Class', upon which the GLB is based. A wide pane of glass houses two displays that are placed right in the driver's field of view to reduce distraction. Mercedes' industry-leading MBUX infotainment system remains our favorite for its numerous features and ease of use. Lending some industrial heft to the interior styling are some chunky trim elements with brushed metal-like finishes.
Despite GLB's impression of a small footprint, its cargo capacity is huge. At its maximum with the rear seats stowed, there are 62 cubic feet to fill. That drops to a still impressive 56.7 cubic feet if you add the third-row seats, still larger than the GLC. A low liftover height and standard power liftgate make loading big bulky objects easy. The second-row seatbacks have no remote releases, so you have to open the rear doors and tug on a nylon strap near the seat-belt buckles to fold the seats down flat.
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Пікірлер: 191
What makes an SUV better than the rest?
@lspd5916
4 жыл бұрын
Sitting up high and the feeling of safety.
@Sirgromulus
4 жыл бұрын
Capability and reliability.
@davevolz6138
4 жыл бұрын
Actually being able to corner. Lol.
@swanblake
4 жыл бұрын
Utility, performance, dynamics, build quality, reliability, comfort.
@jezd8841
4 жыл бұрын
Being the estate people really want.
Get one a month ago. Coming from a c43. With a baby, we are super happy with this thing. Such a solid luxury suv 💪
@you11114
2 жыл бұрын
Have you had any issues with it since? I am considering buying a GLB now and wondering is I should? Thanks
@kasterkemal
2 жыл бұрын
@@you11114 now drove over 1 year and had no difficulties. except for a piece of plastic on the tailgate which was attached through the garage. otherwise the car drives great. the 250 petrol engine seems a bit noisy at high revs but is powerful enough. interior design and ambient lighting are awesome. Handling great, enough space for a small family. I'm definitely satisfied, which I wasn't at all with my c43. the chassis of the c43 amg is a disaster (in my opinion).
I really enjoyed listening to this reviewer. Touched on many aspects you hear other reviewers skip out on. Excellent review!
@tp76ben5
4 жыл бұрын
Good review. I’m going to buy this one. Went to try today at a store and l liked it a lot. I will get the 180 not the 250. As l liked this video l am subscribing to see some hopefully other good reviews.
We took the GLB out for a test drive this past weekend. We also drove the Hyundai Palisade. Personally, I found the Palisade too big for me. I like the room, but I don’t feel comfortable driving huge SUVs. We also have an elderly parent living with us. So the height of the vehicle has to be taken into account. I think the GLB checked off all the items on my list. First, the car does not feel like a big SUV. Second, it’s the right height- you don’t have to climb into the car. Third, I have a short reach (not tall person) and not having to lean forward to access the touch screen was a big plus. MB offers (standard) a kind of mouse pad right were your right and (US) rests. So I can access everything without having to move from my driving position at all. MB also offers like a Siri OS for the car. So you can do a lot of things via voice commands. Fourth, the 3rd row seat option means you don’t have to get into a larger SUV in order to get extra seating. I felt comfortable driving it and I though the handling and shift transitions were very smooth. I think MB did a great job with this vehicle and we’ll be leasing the GLB within the next couple of weeks.
@Dandelion_881
3 жыл бұрын
Thank you for this helpful comment. Can totally relate 👍🏼 thinking between this or Telluride (same family as the Palisade)
@aldridkg
3 жыл бұрын
@@Dandelion_881 YW- I have to update. Pre-pandemic, I was convinced on the GLB. However, since my husband and I transitioned into working from home permanently, I didn’t think the price tag was practical given the reduced lack of use. So, once my lease had expired, I went for a couple of weeks sharing my husband’s car. Eventually, we ended up at a Hyundai dealership. I was looking at the new Santa Fe’s since it was the right height for my elderly mom and size for our family. The dealer was excellent and gave us great deal. Too good to pass up. We ended up leasing the Santa Fe limited. Vehicle comes with all the bells and whistles. Lots of storage space in the back with large hidden cubbies Heated and cooled seats, whole top sunroof, heated steering wheel, remote starter and functions via app, large LCD screen, turning & 360 degree cameras, memory seat settings, along with every safety & convenience feature you can think of etc. Sure, I didn’t have the center console mouse or the voice command option, but this vehicle was also almost $15K less than the GLB. I don’t feel like it’s too big for me -it’s a really nice car. I actually like it so much that I’m considering keeping it after my lease expires.
@Dandelion_881
3 жыл бұрын
@@aldridkg Oh my goodness! I actually checked the Hyundai inventory online at my local dealership. It is on my list for test drive in the next two weeks. I will check out the Limited edition you mentioned. I have three year old twins and an 8 year old who uses a booster seat. Looking for a suv that it is not too big, comfortable ride and ample cargo space. Was also looking at pick-up trucks like Chevy Colorado but leaning towards utility vehicle.
@aldridkg
3 жыл бұрын
@@Dandelion_881 LOL- so, it sounds like you’re looking at options. Well, one thing I can say for Hyundai is that 100K mile warranty. It’s nice to know that if something major happens - there’s that to fall back on. Unfortunately, domestic brands don’t usually offer same warranty. So far, we’ve used the vehicle to take family trips with my daughter, her hubby and my new grandchild. They bring the car seat and the stroller, still plenty of room in the trunk for shopping. So far, so good. My husband laughs cause he knows how much I love using those hidden cubbies in the back. I place grocery bags and stuff I don’t want rolling around in the trunk in those things. The silly things we love- LOL
@amandaavia
2 жыл бұрын
Ha! I’m looking at the GLB fully loaded or the Santa Fe Calligraphy trim… any thoughts now that you’ve owned the car for some time?
So nice to see a calm, serious and fair reviewer! You don’t talk about unnecessary stuff and keep it relevant! Keep it up! New sub here.
I bought one. Yep, it lives up to the hype. Beautiful ride, quiet interior and lovely to steer. The gearbox is a plus too. Loaded up with a few necessary options can increase the price by $10k though, in Australia, at least. I thought going from a Range Rover Sport to this would be a potential mistake. But no, it’s fabulous and has immense cargo space. Great car.
@sammyg4806
Жыл бұрын
Agreed. Got one myself, with about 12-15k in options. Definitely, a rare unicorn that is as easy to park and drive as a sub compact, but has the cargo and practicality of a compact, and the third row which makes it a competitor some mid size SUVs as magnificent as that sounds given its smaller size. Wonderful Crossover.
I found this review confusing. My wife and I test drove one and noticed the front seats are narrow and the knee width was less than most other brands in this size. With exception of that all was well until we got on the highway and the engine was loud getting up to speed and the cabin noise from the road was LOUD. Because of the road noise we are going to pass on this one. We had high hopes it would be a Mercedes GLK replacement, but not with the interior noise. If they fix this in next years model we will be happy to do another test drive. I don’t understand why this review does not call this out, it’s pretty quiet at lower speeds, but at highway speeds here in Texas, it’s bad.
Great review!
Perfect review. Thank you!
Good review. This guy is good
An impressively articulated detailed review also sending compliments to the videographer crew.
I’m about to go test drive one of these in Tampa. this gentleman did nothing but reaffirm my excitement to possibly get into this vehicle. thank you!
Spiritual successor to GLK.
I think I agree with you, I think it's the best in its class! This car came out at the perfect time since my lease will be up at the end of the year. In addition, I thoroughly enjoyed your review of this vehicle. Touched on all the important information, and left all the fluff out. New subscriber.
I LOVE it’s look!
Awesome review! I wonder how is the noice insulation? On bumping road?
I was waiting for the back seat info.. hehehe but anyways u gave a good pic for me to know this car from your perspective. 👍🏼
AWESOME review! I just got my GLB 3 days ago and LOVE it!
@tocor71
4 жыл бұрын
What about consumptions? Good or bad?
@cheryleharrison995
4 жыл бұрын
@@tocor71 do you miss not having a NAV system? Or a sunroof?
@Chrissy_W
4 жыл бұрын
@@tocor71 Not sure about gas consumption yet. Haven't had to fill the tank up yet. I'll update. Been busy learning the technology stuff with the car. SO far I love it!Love how it drives. It drives a lot like the GLK I had
@tocor71
4 жыл бұрын
@@cheryleharrison995 I'm waiting for mine glb at 3 months!!!.....only in April arrive......Portugal. I buy mine with sunroof and maps navigation....it's a extra.
@-NetGate
4 жыл бұрын
@@tocor71 Thats good. Mine only in June or July. Presentation for the first time in Portugal, is March 5. What version did you choose?
Another excellent review.
I'm not even looking to buy this car (maybe in 5 years), i just randomly watch car reviews, and man you did great! I'm definitely subscribing to your chanel.
Bought one. Excellent CUV. Great review.
Nice review! I think I'd better go have a look. I wouldn't have even considered Mercedes until I watched you review. Thank you!
im looking to get this vehicle !
Just ordered one with the same specs as this one. Great space for rear facing child seats, excellent adjustments for rear seats. The cargo space is huge for the 5 seater, you do need the cargo safety net as an extra. Just a perfect CAR for families.
@you11114
2 жыл бұрын
Have you had any issues with it since? I am considering buying a GLB now and wondering is I should? Thanks
Awesome review
A great review! I would love to know what options were included on the car, specifically does it include the Suspension w/ Adjustable Damping and the Multicontour front seats since seating and handling were mentioned as being particularly excellent.
@amandaavia
2 жыл бұрын
@@marktakahashi5024 do you think both of these things are essential (or close to it) for the most comfortable drive? I’m 5’1” and it’s hard for me to feel snug in many cars (which I prefer).
I really wanted the original GLK in diesel, but pre-owned ones with low mileage were impossible to find.
Great review. How does it compare to the GLC ?
Omg love the new GLB 😍✔️
Mark - Great detailed review. Your review is one of the reasons what made me consider GLB and got one few week back
@amerinkhan8991
3 жыл бұрын
Same here lol
@amandaavia
2 жыл бұрын
How are you enjoying it? Loves, likes, dislikes?
@krisvijay22
2 жыл бұрын
@@amandaavia ok so far. The wind noise is little too much for a luxury brand. I wish I should have gotten the driving assistance package
@you11114
2 жыл бұрын
Have you had any issues with it since? I am considering buying a GLB now and wondering is I should? Thanks
Saw this car parked by my house and was looking at it at an oblique angle and it appeared much bigger than it seems. Didn't know it was this spacious, I would definitely take this over the GLC
Good job 👍
This is the premium amg line package right, with 20' wheels and 10' screen, right? Looks good
The best option 220d. Qestion one. Is it worth adding brabus to tuning by 20% more power? how much will increase acceleration
I'd want to see this with the 4.0 in the c63. Over kill? Yes. Awesome? Absolutely.
Why not 10 speeds transmission used by other manufacturers? Are they some electrified versions? Or better plug-in versions?
The First KZread reviewer that understands where thís model fits into the MB line up ánd how Mercedes-Benz names their range : GL = GE-LANDE which is German for off road. Here follows : GLA = A-class off road GLB = B-class off road GLC = C-class off road GLE = E-class off road GLS = S-class off road Then follows the uber G-class, the original Mercedes-Benz offroader that was launched in 1979 and nów available in formats like the G63 and G550 & even G350 diesel.
It looks solid & well build. I already bought Countryman JCW for my 2nd car before I saw this GLB.
Great reviewer. I’m not sure the design really works hmmm
I want one!
Best commentator I have seen on youtube...thorough and concise. Many thanks.
X1’s killer
The GLB has no SD card, Becker or Garmin Navigation adaptability.The Navigation is either MB or Apple Car play. Unfortunately the Apple car play uses the a smaller screen area vs the MB which uses the full screen are I wonder why. Maybe Edmund's can throw some light on this restriction.
A question would you take the range rover velar in disel 275 or petrol 250 jag f pace d300 or petrol250
Hi Mark! Thanks for the great review-- how is the adaptive cruise with active steering?
Would you say its size is identical to the new VW Tiguan?
I am torn between Volvo XC40 and Mercedes GLB! Any recommendations?!
So is it as tiny as a BMW X1?? Or is it more comparable in size to X3?
Nice. Most important questions: how does it compare with GLC and which one would you choose, assuming all things being equal, price etc
@ropi4524
Жыл бұрын
GLB for life!
Did he say he was in regular Kia sport mode? Lol
@ALMX5DP
4 жыл бұрын
Bullcity key up
@thatguy.7608
4 жыл бұрын
Ok 🤔 so I really thought I heard that too???
@Gemini530
4 жыл бұрын
He was probably reviewing several cars that day 😂
@Nathan-iy3ug
4 жыл бұрын
Lol yeah
@rabit818
4 жыл бұрын
Kia Telluride is a contender. It’s easy to slip.
I might get this or venza!
Has everything but power. At this price range 270-300 is pretty standard if not on the low side.
Best CAR reviewer I’ve seen! So detailed and I love the comparisons
Nice ride. Love the interior! Unfortunately, it’s hard to justify the price tag when you can other luxury compact or mid size SUVs with more features for less money. You’re right in that the features added aren’t all necessary. I could never bring myself to spend $57k on this.
@hanialzaid8460
4 жыл бұрын
What would be your pick instead if you were to pay that much money?
Great review. Love the detail and the rear seat review was especially great. This is a winner, as said, if not optioned to the hilt. 57K seems a bit excessive. You can get a fully optioned 70K+ one year old GLE with low mileage for that price (amazing what is out there in slightly used or dealer exec cars in CA or AZ, etc., so not sure about a 57K GLB. Would have liked to hear how you would have optioned it and what price it came in at. Can you get a great GLB for 45? and what would you miss, if anything? That seems a much, much smarter buy and about right for an A class based SUV.
Good reviewer with no hint of bias.
2nd gen GLK
@achuck4321
4 жыл бұрын
CarterBurtonMotorsportsDotCom can’t wait for the “amg” version. The Glk63 was always something I felt they should have built.
@normt5463
4 жыл бұрын
We loved the GLK just not the V6 for daily efficiency. The 2.0T and 3-row is the sweet spot!
Can someone please confirm what the road and wind noise is like from GLB? I read multiple initial reviews that the SUV had more road and wind noise than what a "Mercedes Benz" should have and this was a turn off for the tester. But here the tester is saying it is quiet.
@thelifeofBrian8
2 жыл бұрын
It is quiet. But it is a B class SUV so don`t expect miracles. To me it is very satisfying and much quieter coming from a Passat B8 wagon
This is probably the one to get in class. Best competition might be a loaded CX-5.
Better looking than the GLE for sure
Hmmm, i think it could fit two 75 inch tv or two great Danes
Short and sweet 🦅🦅🇺🇸
Just a question and l don’t know if this was mentioned in the video. Are the wheels 20’ or 19’?
@mammutpenthouse
3 жыл бұрын
19’
Why didn’t you show the 3rd row entry and egress. This omission hints at some bias towards giving a glowing review to this MB product.
@szbxa
4 жыл бұрын
The model he reviewed doesn't have a 3rd row, and it's good as it is. The third row option of this car is a niche option that's usually not present for this segment and does not detract from the rest of the car. Trying to nitpick a feature that's not even there makes you the biased one.
@JimmyjimmyJimmyjimmy-ih3yd
4 жыл бұрын
szbxa You obviously like this car. That’s ok. MB probably didn’t provide a third row for this this early review as the room in there might be poor for the money. Do you work for MB?
@thelifeofBrian8
2 жыл бұрын
@@JimmyjimmyJimmyjimmy-ih3yd MB doesn`t even try to hide it, the 3rd row is for people up to 168cm. I don`t need it anyway, I got one without it. It doesn`t take away anything from it being a great car for the money. And no, not a fully optioned one. Compare a mid-optioned one to others and you`ll see the value.
Which colour is this?
Mom's everywhere rejoice that they can get a fwd Mercedes "suv". Should be super reliable too. Good thing that warranty is so long.
@normt5463
4 жыл бұрын
Sorry, they are not driving Civic's.
I’m stuck between the glb and the xc40. This video just took me closer to deciding which one I want.
i think mercedes need to pull back their line up. glb? with 21 different models (here in australia), including maybach, amg gt, x class, eqv, v class, slc, sl, s class, gls, gle, glc, glb, gla, g class, eqc, e class, cls, cla, c class, b class, a class ... whew ... its overkill. they could cut the line up in half and still have plenty of options.
Upgrade to 4K cameras
@ALMX5DP
4 жыл бұрын
Mete Tuncay nah I’m good
Lots of interior noise at highway speed, unlikely MB
Okay show me where do I sign it?
Now there’s no excuse for not putting that interactive system on GLC
Around the 6 minute mark, he said, that GLB is based on our award winning A class. Does this mean that the reviewer is from MB, and they are reviewing their own car? That's fine...but something to keep in mind.
@thelifeofBrian8
2 жыл бұрын
He`s from Edmunds and the A class won award at Edmunds.
I recently bought a brand new GLB in Hong Kong. The car broke down in only 12 days due to a gearbox issue and it had to sit in back to Mercedes repair center for a month. We took it back after Mercedes claimed that they have fully fixed it, however it broke down again in the middle of the road after just 6 days (with my wife who is currently 28-weeks pregnant onboard). This faulty car has only been driven for less than 500km and its still in repair center now. Due to the safety concern, i demand a full refund or replace a new car as we cannot trust this car anymore. They turned down my request and came back with a counter offered asking me to trade in the current faulty car and buy another new one from them. I was so speechless and our whole family were so disappointed as we have been supporting Mercedes for over 15 years (owned another E class previously) Think twice if you still consider Mercedes as your family car since the gearbox problem has been a major issue in the past few years, friends of mine also having problems with their Mercedes.
@you11114
2 жыл бұрын
So what happened after that? They did fix it?
I liked the review. Well done... but please... please... remove the word "really" from your descriptions... The word "really really" detracts from following your review after 30 or 40 times being said in 10 minutes.
i have to ask.... what is MB reliability like these days? don't want ot be stuck driving a service loaner while making payments on a broken car stuck in the shop :'(
@benc4181
4 жыл бұрын
fabulousprofound #12 JD Powers 2018
at 6:50 you see a rare occasion a Mercedes supporting a Red Bull.
FWD the only point which turns this one into a non buying Mercedes
I Know that road. Ortega highway
@tlang001
4 жыл бұрын
Close - but nope! Ortega is several hours away.
@heathersmith5726
4 жыл бұрын
tlang001 ugh 74 is scary as sh*t
It’s $25K better than a CX5 2.5T, right? Right!?!
@normt5463
4 жыл бұрын
Our(Edmund's)2018 Mazda CX-5 had a sticker price of $34,505 when it was new. After a year of driving, our odometer had about 17,600 miles on it. Assuming clean condition, the CX-5 had a private-party appraised value of $24,818. This is a 28% depreciation, which is worse than our long-term fleet average of 22%.
@NierAutomata2B
4 жыл бұрын
@@normt5463 Why do you think the 2018 CX5 has such a steep depreciation?
@normt5463
4 жыл бұрын
@@NierAutomata2B Mazda as a whole has one of the worst retention rates in the industry. People do not want to own another one. Maybe because Mazda's are on the small side of each segment for interior space but charge a similar price as the rest of the segment.
oh!!!! great good.
3rd row! I came to see the 3rd row!
The fake duel exhaust ports in the back & the fake carbon fiber panels is an absolute travesty for a Mercedes Benz vehicle.
LOL, $57K USD?? that's crazy.
Mercedes-Benz put 4cly in everything
I'm trying to convince my husband to get a GLB200 instead of a 2015 BMW X4. Please help with the arguments! 😂
@ropi4524
Жыл бұрын
Far more space and headroom. Better Image. Better warranty.
They paid you for this review?
@USA-qm2bk
4 жыл бұрын
Edwin Delgado he’s a shill and always says good things about BMW
The exhaust ports in the back are fake. Any of the carbon fiber you get with this car is also fake. There seems to be a change in mentality at Mercedes. The question is ...how far does this change go? The engine?, The transmission? You have to pay 50k to find out.
Plagued with rattling and vibration noises. Not a solid car. Looks nice though.
@Gemini530
4 жыл бұрын
Anthony Z ... I’ve leased one before
@iiit44
4 жыл бұрын
@@Gemini530 This model, GLB, had just came out. How long was your lease? LOL
57000 wow for that box
I like this guy. His English is really good!
Once I saw him open the hood and said that it comes standard as FWD... 😞
@ALMX5DP
4 жыл бұрын
Josh Mateo why does that make you sad? It’s not like it’s the only Merc available.
@mr.joshmateo
4 жыл бұрын
Alan Bowers I’m just not on board with FWD suvs. Especially with 3 rows of seating.
@ALMX5DP
4 жыл бұрын
Josh Mateo interesting, I feel it’s perfect for a vehicle like this that maximizes the space available for interior occupants and their luggage.
@MtnDude1020
4 жыл бұрын
@@mr.joshmateo So choose the AWD version of it...
@benc4181
4 жыл бұрын
Josh Mateo It’s actually a crossover. So FWD is fine
You are driving a 4matic!
M-Bucks Lol! It’s a letter acronym! Don’t pronounce it like that
This is the Metris that they couldn't produce.
RedBull?? NOT in a Mercedes!!
Omg lost a little respect when i heard you pronounce MBUX as m-bux rather than M-B-U-X. Mercedes-Benz User Experience.
Nice jeep renegade
Design already looks kinda old to me
@ALMX5DP
4 жыл бұрын
Siebe_13 those are the best designs IMO because they actually age the best compared to super crazy designs.
@fabulousprofound
4 жыл бұрын
boxy=old unfortunately.
The front reminds me of a Honda Element🥴