The 2021 Mercedes-benz Glb-class emerges as a compelling option in the luxury compact SUV segment, masterfully blending versatility with the opulence synonymous with the Mercedes-Benz marque. This vehicle comfortably accommodates up to seven passengers, a rare feat in its class, offering a sanctuary of premium materials and thoughtful design. Stepping inside, occupants are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of understated luxury, where comfort and elegance take precedence over ostentation. It’s a space meticulously crafted for those who appreciate refinement without the need for overt displays.
Beyond its sophisticated and inviting cabin, the GLB-Class boasts a pair of robust engine choices, delivering confident acceleration and poised handling. Drivers can select between front-wheel or all-wheel drive configurations, catering to diverse driving needs and weather conditions. The infotainment system is anchored by a standard 7.0-inch touchscreen, seamlessly integrating Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with intuitive voice command functionality. Safety is also paramount, evidenced by a comprehensive suite of standard safety technologies. Let’s delve deeper into the specifics of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class to determine if it aligns with your aspirations for a luxury SUV.
Trim Levels and Standard Features: Luxury from the Ground Up
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class lineup presents two distinct trim levels, each brimming with premium features. The GLB 250 serves as the entry point, priced from $38,050 for the front-wheel-drive model. Opting for all-wheel drive (4MATIC®) elevates the starting price by $2,000. True to its luxury pedigree, even the base GLB 250 trim is generously equipped. It features 8-way power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, refined MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, and a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. Under the hood, a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower provides ample动力 for daily driving and beyond.
For those seeking enhanced performance, the AMG GLB 35 represents a significant step up in both dynamism and price. Starting at $49,500 and featuring standard all-wheel drive, this trim is powered by an AMG-enhanced version of the 2.0-liter engine, unleashing 302 horsepower. The AMG GLB 35 also boasts an AMG Performance steering wheel with innovative touch control buttons and a larger 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen. Furthermore, it unlocks access to a range of exclusive AMG performance options, allowing for a more personalized and exhilarating driving experience.
Image alt text: Plush interior of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 showcasing premium materials and spacious cabin.
Engine and Performance: Balanced Power and AMG Thrills
The foundation of the GLB 250’s performance is a responsive 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, generating 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with a smooth-shifting 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The powertrain delivers brisk acceleration, effortlessly propelling the GLB-Class up to speed while maintaining a hushed cabin environment. Highway merging and overtaking maneuvers are executed with ease. While certainly capable, the GLB 250 powertrain prioritizes refinement over outright sportiness.
For drivers craving a more spirited driving experience, the AMG GLB 35 answers the call. It features an upgraded version of the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, boosting output to 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. Complementing this enhanced power is an AMG SPEEDSHIFT® DCT 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, optimized for quicker gear changes and a more engaging driving feel. While the AMG GLB 35 commands a higher price point, the significant increase in performance and driving dynamics justifies the investment for enthusiasts seeking a more thrilling luxury SUV.
Image alt text: Powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, highlighting its efficient yet robust design.
Fuel Efficiency: Economical Luxury
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class demonstrates commendable fuel economy for a luxury SUV. EPA estimates for the GLB 250 with front-wheel drive are 23 mpg city, 31 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. Choosing the all-wheel-drive configuration results in a negligible dip, with figures of 23 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. This near-identical fuel efficiency across drivetrain options ensures that экономичность remains a strong suit regardless of your choice.
The higher-performance AMG GLB 35 naturally experiences a more noticeable reduction in fuel economy. It achieves EPA estimates of 21 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined. While still respectable for its power output, the AMG GLB 35 will incur slightly higher fuel costs. However, this is a trade-off many drivers are willing to accept for the enhanced performance and driving excitement it delivers.
Image alt text: Fuel gauge of the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 indicating its fuel efficiency and range.
Ride Quality and Handling: Comfort and Composure
As expected from a Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV, the 2021 GLB-Class prioritizes ride comfort and refinement. It effectively absorbs road imperfections, with rough surfaces and minor bumps barely registering within the cabin. Only the most severe potholes will transmit any jarring sensation to passengers. The GLB-Class delivers a composed and passenger-focused ride, ensuring a pleasant experience for all occupants. Contributing to this serene atmosphere is the remarkably quiet cabin. Despite its SUV form factor, wind noise is minimal, and road noise is effectively suppressed, facilitating easy conversation even for those in the optional third-row seats.
Handling is characterized by crispness and responsiveness, striking an ideal balance between relaxed cruising and engaging driving dynamics. The steering is well-weighted and provides good feedback, inspiring confidence without demanding constant driver input. It avoids the overly firm and demanding nature of a sports car while remaining far from feeling vague or disconnected. The GLB-Class confidently navigates winding roads and city streets alike.
Image alt text: 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 in motion, demonstrating its smooth ride and composed handling on the road.
Interior Space and Seating: Versatility for Passengers and Cargo
The interior of the 2021 GLB-Class is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally designed. Seating is plush and supportive, upholstered in standard MB-Tex synthetic leather. Front occupants enjoy generous space, while the second row offers a spacious bench seat with ample legroom and headroom. Notably, the second row features exceptional adjustability, including multi-stage reclining backrests and the ability to slide fore and aft by up to six inches. This sliding functionality allows passengers to customize legroom or prioritize access to the optional third row.
While the optional third-row seating expands passenger capacity to seven, it’s best suited for occasional use or shorter journeys, particularly for adults. Legroom in the third row is understandably limited. However, it provides valuable flexibility for families who occasionally need to transport extra passengers.
Image alt text: Spacious second-row seating in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, highlighting its adjustability and passenger comfort.
Cargo Capacity: Practicality for Everyday Life
Despite its compact classification, the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class offers commendable cargo space, particularly in two-row configurations. In models equipped with the optional third row, cargo volume behind the third row is a modest 5.1 cubic feet. However, folding down the third row expands this significantly to 24.0 cubic feet. Maximizing cargo capacity by folding the second row yields an impressive 56.7 cubic feet behind the front seats.
Two-row versions of the GLB-Class offer even more cargo room, with 27.0 cubic feet available behind the second row and a generous 62.0 cubic feet with the second row folded. This ample space easily accommodates luggage for extended trips, weekly grocery hauls, or gear for weekend adventures. For buyers prioritizing cargo capacity, opting for the two-row configuration is a worthwhile consideration.
Image alt text: Expansive cargo space in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 with rear seats folded down, showcasing its practicality and storage volume.
Infotainment and Technology: Intuitive and User-Friendly
The 2021 GLB-Class comes standard with the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, featuring a 7.0-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto integration. Control is versatile, offering touchscreen input, steering wheel-mounted controls, a touchpad interface, and an advanced voice control system. MBUX is activated by simply saying “Hey, Mercedes,” followed by natural language commands. The system excels at understanding conversational prompts, eliminating the need for rigid, pre-defined phrases. A larger 10.25-inch touchscreen is available as an option on the GLB 250 and standard on the AMG GLB 35.
While the standard 7.0-inch screen is functional, the optional 10.25-inch display significantly enhances usability, particularly for navigation and media viewing. Regardless of screen size, the MBUX system is praised for its intuitive menu structure and ease of use, ensuring a short learning curve for both drivers and passengers.
Image alt text: User-friendly infotainment system in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, highlighting the touchscreen display and intuitive interface.
Safety and Driver Assistance: Peace of Mind as Standard
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class prioritizes safety, offering a comprehensive suite of standard and available driver-assistance features. While the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) has not yet rated the GLB-Class, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it an overall 5-star safety rating for all-wheel-drive models and 4-star rating for front-wheel-drive versions.
Standard safety features include active brake assist, attention assist, blind spot assist with exit warning, and crosswind assist. A range of optional advanced safety technologies are also available, such as speed limit assist, active parking assist, active steering assist, evasive steering assist, active brake assist with cross-traffic function, and active distance assist DISTRONIC. Furthermore, active emergency stop assist monitors driver engagement and can bring the vehicle to a controlled stop if driver unresponsiveness is detected.
Image alt text: Safety features display in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, emphasizing its comprehensive safety technology suite.
Final Verdict: Is the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Right for You?
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class presents a compelling proposition as a luxurious and practical compact SUV. It boasts a refined and quiet interior, pampering occupants with premium comfort. While the optional third row is best reserved for occasional use, the GLB-Class excels in cargo capacity, particularly in two-row configurations. It’s not rated for towing, but for everyday practicality and passenger hauling it delivers.
The MBUX infotainment system, especially with the optional 10.25-inch touchscreen, is intuitive and feature-rich. The voice control system is a standout, accurately interpreting natural language commands. Priced competitively within the luxury segment, the GLB-Class offers both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options and a responsive base engine. For those prioritizing performance, the AMG GLB 35 elevates the driving experience with a more potent powertrain. As an accessible entry point into the Mercedes-Benz SUV family, the 2021 GLB-Class warrants serious consideration and a test drive for anyone seeking a versatile and luxurious compact SUV.
Image alt text: Rear view of the stylish 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250, showcasing its design and compact SUV proportions.
