Second-generation GLB upgrades to same new MMA platform as CLA and offers ICE and EV powertrains
May 21, 2025 at 07:01
- The 2027 Mercedes GLB has been spied testing at Germany’s Nurburgring.
- Benz’s X1 rival keeps its practical shape but rides on new MMA platform.
- Pictures show an ICE prototype but single and dual-motor EVs arrive first.
Mercedes is unleashing a tsunami-sized wave of new product over the next couple of years, some featuring combustion power, some electric. And many, like the 2027 Mercedes GLB seen here, will let buyers decide what goes under the hood.
Even with the disguise in place, we can see that Mercedes hasn’t messed with the boxy silhouette introduced on the original GLB back in 2019. But the second-generation SUV is reportedly both longer and wider, and just as important, it moves to Benz’s new MMA platform.
Related: Mercedes GLB EV Takes Shape On New, More Capable Platform
This is the same modular architecture that underpins the latest CLA sedan, and the GLB’s slightly less practical sibling, the GLA, will also make use of it. EV versions will feature 800-volt electrics, though don’t be surprised if they can’t use 400-volt chargers without a converter, and will offer a choice between single-motor, rear-wheel drive and dual-motor, all-wheel drive setups, along with two different battery sizes.
ICE versions, like the one seen here, will come with 1.5-liter mild-hybrid engines from Horse, the Geely-Renault joint venture. Base trims will send a meager 134 hp (136 PS) to the front wheels, but higher grades will punch out 187 hp (190 PS) and distribute it between both axles.
Mercedes’ new star-shaped DRLs will make an appearance at the front, while the rear will feature a long strip of LEDs shaped like a Mexican bandito ’tache running up the side of the rear hatch, below the rear window and back down the other side. And for the first time Mercedes will reportedly offer a rugged off-road-themed GLB, tapping into the current trend for SUVs that look ready to hit the trails even when they’re just hitting the high street.
The interior is also in line for a new look. It’ll gain the full-width digital dashboard display that made its production debut in the CLA, but will carry over the seven-seat option that has been a major USP for the current GLB in the fight against the BMW X1 and Audi Q3.
Mercedes won’t reveal the GLB until this time next year, but it has confirmed that the EV version will arrive several months ahead of the internal combustion engine model, making the GLB’s debut part of the 2027 model year.