The new electric Mercedes-Benz GLB is here: polarizing design and a focus on AI

Mercedes-Benz just kicked off a new phase for its compact luxury SUV, the GLB. The automaker ditched the traditional gas engine, making the 2026 GLB an electric-only vehicle, at least for now. The new model replaces the EQB in the lineup and keeps the boxy, tall shape.

Under that familiar silhouette lies a completely redesigned machine, built with an advanced electric architecture and a big dose of artificial intelligence. The first wave of models is pure electric, but Mercedes-Benz plans to roll out more affordable entry-level EVs and hybrid options next year, making this a pivotal vehicle in their strategy.

Powering this new generation of EVs is an 800V electric architecture, giving it a charging edge, although specific charging times are not yet announced. Both launch models use a large 85 kWh lithium-ion battery. The entry-point is the GLB 250+ with EQ Technology. This single-motor version sends power to the rear wheels, generating 268 horsepower. The continuous torque sits at 247 lb-ft, but drivers get a short-term boost up to 335 lb-ft when they need it most. Performance is OK for a compact utility vehicle, hitting 62 mph in 7.4 seconds. Most importantly, the GLB 250+ delivers a solid driving range: 391 miles on a single charge.

The Mercedes GLB 350 4Matic with EQ Technology steps up the performance game. This version adds another motor to the front axle, turning the SUV into an all-wheel-drive powerhouse. The combined output jumps to 349 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, which is enough to shave significant time off the 62 mph sprint - it now takes a snappy 5.5 seconds. The trade-off for this performance is a slight reduction in range, settling at 382 miles.

Both the GLB 250+ and the 350 4Matic set a high standard for range within the growing segment of luxury electric cars. Looking ahead, Mercedes will introduce a less expensive entry-level EV and a mild-hybrid using 48V technology next year, offering customers several options across front- and all-wheel drive formats.

The new GLB has physically grown in almost every direction. The vehicle is longer than both the EQB and the previous gas-powered GLB it replaces. The overall length now stands at 15.52 ft, making it 3.86 inches longer than the earlier GLB. Width also increased to 6.1 ft. Curiously, Mercedes dropped the overall height slightly to 5.51 ft, which gives the GLB a lower stance than its predecessors.

The most critical change for passenger comfort is the wheelbase, which stretched to 9.48 ft - a full 2.36 inches longer than the previous version. This stretched wheelbase should result in way more room in the cabin, especially for those riding in the back seats. The design team also carved out a decent amount of cargo space, with 23.6 ft³ available in the main trunk and an additional 4.48 ft³ in the front storage area, or frunk.

The GLB’s blocky shape stays for this generation, but its design details spark debate. The front end now looks more expressive, featuring a large, prominent grille. Redesigned headlights flank the grille and include intricate, star-shaped daytime running lights, connected by a full-width light bar. The rear end, however, is the most polarizing design element.

Mercedes used the styling language seen on its futuristic EQXX Concept, giving the GLB vertically oriented taillight clusters joined by a slim light bar. The signature star pattern appears again in the lights. Some people might find the look a bit strange, but Mercedes clearly wants to make its new EV stand out among competitors.

The largest transformation, however, is inside the cabin. Mercedes focused heavily on technology, giving the new GLB the optional Superscreen setup. This system features three high-resolution displays running across the dashboard: a 10.25-inch screen for the driver and two massive 14-inch screens - one for infotainment and one for the passenger.

The system runs on the fourth-generation MBUX platform, which includes artificial intelligence from both Microsoft and Google. For those who like to chat with their car, the MBUX Virtual Assistant uses ChatGPT-4o technology, making the GLB one of the most tech-focused EVs on the road.

For now, Mercedes has confirmed pricing only for the German market. The cheapest GLB 250+ with EQ Technology (how long before Mercedes drops this name?) starts at $69,175, and the more powerful GLB 350 4Matic is priced at $72,842. Neither of the versions can be called affordable, but this isn’t meant to be an affordable EV - this is a premium family SUV, and as such, it actually fits right in the middle of the competitor field.

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