Mercedes is in the midst of renewing its compact car lineup to fend off competition from BMW’s smallest models. While Munich hasn’t offered a seven-seater since discontinuing the 2 Series Gran Tourer a few years ago, Stuttgart still sees demand for a three-row vehicle in this class. Enter the second-generation GLB, previewed today ahead of its world premiere on December 8.
Coming to the United States for the 2027 model year, the small crossover retains its boxy exterior but adopts a completely new interior. In line with the CLA and CLA Shooting Brake introduced earlier this year, the revamped GLB embraces a triple-screen layout to attract buyers. However, the MBUX Superscreen setup will be optional, as base versions will forgo the passenger-side display.
Mercedes hasn’t disclosed screen sizes, but we’re likely looking at a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and dual 14-inch touchscreens. The layout appears to be carried over from the CLA, complete with a few physical controls positioned ahead of the “floating” center console. In essence, everything you like (and dislike) about the new CLA is here.
The starry-sky effect of the panoramic glass roof with illuminated stars will be an extra-cost option. Echoing the CLA, the GLB’s top section can switch from transparent to opaque within milliseconds at the touch of a virtual button in the infotainment system. A closer look at the driver’s display confirms this is an AMG Line trim, while other details include a head-up display and a Burmester sound system.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The key difference between the CLA and the GLB lies in the rear, where Mercedes offers an optional third row with two individual seats. The sliding second row is standard on seven-seat versions and optional on the five-seater. When not needed, the rearmost seats can be folded flat into the load floor to expand cargo capacity.
Mercedes hasn’t shared technical specifications yet, but a size increase is expected, and not only because the CLA has grown significantly. We’re told there’s now “noticeably” more legroom in the 2027 GLB’s second row. The nearly flat roofline further enhances headroom for first- and second-row occupants compared to the outgoing model. It’s worth noting that even the base version comes with a glass roof, though it lacks the illuminated star pattern and variable transparency.
13
Source: Mercedes-Benz
The new GLB is expected to mirror the CLA’s powertrain lineup, offering both single- and dual-motor EV variants alongside a mild-hybrid setup built around a turbocharged 1.5-liter “M252” four-cylinder engine. In the CLA, this transversely mounted gas engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic and sends power to the front wheels or an available AWD system. The electric CLA, meanwhile, features standard rear-wheel drive and optional 4Matic.
Mercedes’ compact car renewal will continue with a next-gen GLA and a smaller G-Class. Additionally, a direct replacement for the A-Class is planned to arrive “in the long term,” according to Mathias Geisen, management board member for marketing and sales. It remains unclear whether it will be offered in both hatchback and sedan forms as before or just as a five-door hatch. A next-generation B-Class minivan, however, is not planned.