KUALA LUMPUR: The compact car range has grown to become Mercedes’ crucial thrust as it captures youth and first-time buyers.
Despite having the A-Class, B-Class, CLA and GLA, Mercedes somehow managed to find more room to slot in the new GLB sports utility vehicle (SUV).
The compact SUV will be offered in five- and seven-seater option and since it’s now a three-row people carrier, the GLB has grown in dimensions. It is now a whole 100mm longer than the new B-Class.
While the Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 produces 221hp which is not too shabby out of the box, the AMG GLB 35 ups the ante with more power, kit and off-road capabilities.
The same 2.0-litre turbocharged engine output is now rated at 306hp and 400Nm, thanks to a twin-scroll turbocharger with an added boost.
It channels the extra output through an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and to all four wheels via the brand’s 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
This enables the seven-seater GLB 35 to sprint from rest to 100kph in 5.2 seconds, up to an electronically-limited 250kph top speed.
The AMG deletes the base GLB’s Eco and Sport driving modes for a pack of new ones; Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual.
The suspension received some tweaks too. There are new steering knuckles and transverse control arms on the front axle to improve lateral dynamics.
It is also fitted with speed-sensitive power steering and four-piston AMG brakes, for both improved agility and stopping power.
Buyers can also upgrade their GLB 35 with an optional AMG Ride Control electronic suspension.
The exterior of the car carries a host of AMG cues, which includes more aggressive front fascia, AMG Panamericana grille and 19-inch 10-spoke AMG alloy wheels in Tantalum Grey, which can also be had in 20- and 21-inch options.
Inside, the car is equipped with MBUX infotainment system with a touchpad, and touch-control buttons on the steering wheel.
The seats, dashboard and door panels are upholstered in AMG-specific leather and stitching combo to help distinguish it from the base 250.
The sporty compact SUV is said to go on sale in early 2020. Will the car make its way to our shores?