The GLB, one of four models retained in Mercedes-Benz’s streamlined compact vehicle line-up, along with its electric equivalent, the EQB, will undergo a full model change next year. In their second generation, these cars will be unified, and the latter will be rebranded as the ‘GLB Electric.’ Here’s everything we know about the Mercedes GLB Electric so far.
Confirmation
While test prototypes of the boxy next-gen GLB serve as a confirmation for the successor’s plan, Ola Källenius, Chief Executive Officer of the Mercedes-Benz Group, hinted that the new GLA and GLB would follow in the MMA market architecture series while explaining the future portfolio.
You know, we sort our world when we think about how our portfolio is built up – Top-End, the AMGs, the Maybachs, the Gs, the S-Class, the GLS, that kind of family. Core, where we have the E-Class and the C-Class and the GLCs and the GLE. And entry, the new MMA market architecture, where the CLA is, where the GLA is, GLB, and so on.
Ola Källenius, CEO of the Mercedes-Benz Group, at the Capital Market Day in Sindelfingen on February 20, 2025
Exterior
The Mercedes GLB Electric is expected to feature a more offbeat character, aimed at improving its appeal among young, progressive customers. As shown in our exclusive renderings, the silhouette will stay close to the current model, maintaining a proper SUV stance and maximizing space. However, the front and rear will look visibly different, aligning with the new Mercedes MMA family look.
An illuminated-star-studded faux grille should dominate the front of the Mercedes GLB Electric. The stars in the closed panel will likely light up and turn off in an animated sequence as part of a dynamic coming-home/leaving-home sequence. The functional air intake grille will likely be a much smaller unit located at the lowest part of the front, featuring a familiar A-shape.
The headlamps will likely feature a gently curved rectangular shape and be connected via a continuous light band. Mercedes-Benz should give an option to specify a star-shaped daytime running light inside the headlamps for a more catchy look.
On the sides, retractable handles that sit flush with the body when the doors are locked would provide enhanced aerodynamics and a sleeker styling. The upright rear will likely feature new connected combination lamps, possibly with a standard star signature.
Interior & Features
The interior of the Mercedes GLB Electric will be designed based on a new minimalist philosophy that reduces layers and excess controls. The dashboard should be dominated by an optional MBUX Superscreen, inspired by the MBUX Hyperscreen of higher-class Mercs but built to the cost.
The MBUX Superscreen in the GLB Electric should be an end-to-end upright glass surface integrating a 10.25-inch instrument cluster on the driver side, a 14-inch touchscreen in the center, and a star pattern graphic or an optional 14-inch touchscreen on the passenger side. An optional 2+3+2 seating layout should be the GLB Electric’s key distinguishing element from the GLA Electric, the future successor to the EQA.
In Europe, Mercedes-Benz will likely offer wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto support, Augmented Reality navigation and traffic instructions, and a head-up display, as paid extras. Level 2++ (urban & highway) point-2-point assisted driving should also be available as an option.
Specifications
The Mercedes GLB Electric will be based on the new, rear-biased MMA platform and feature an 800-volt electric architecture. At launch, Mercedes-Benz may offer it in 250+ single-motor RWD and 350 4MATIC dual-motor AWD variants, both with an 85 kWh NMC battery pack. The former’s powertrain should develop 268 hp and 247 lb.-ft. of torque, and the latter’s 349 hp and 380 lb.-ft. of torque.
The GLB Electric 250+ may accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in around seven seconds, and the GLB Electric 350 4MATIC may take close to five seconds for the same. Both should have a top speed of 130 mph, marking a significant improvement over the EQB’s 99 mph. The 85 kWh NMC battery pack should support charging at up to 320 kW and take as little as just 22 minutes for a 10-80% fast-charging session. We estimate it to deliver an EPA-estimated range of around 325 miles in the 250+ variant and around 300 miles in the 350 4MATIC variant.
Release Date
The Mercedes GLB Electric will likely be unveiled in mid-2026, with European sales commencing in the summer of the same year. Given the uncertainty surrounding future plans due to the ongoing tariff dispute, it’s still early to talk about the U.S. launch. Without additional tariffs, the GLB Electric is expected to start at around USD 55,000.
International Automotive News Editor since 2014, covering global motor shows, industry events, and test-driving various vehicles, with a focus on hybrid and electric cars in recent years.
