Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Wikipedia (opens in a new tab) describes the GLB as a three-row D-segment luxury crossover SUV produced by Mercedes-Benz since 2019, model years 2020 onward, with a first generation (X247) that received a 2023 facelift and a second generation (X244) for 2026. It is the family choice in the range. The Car Connection (opens in a new tab) says it combines city maneuverability, an upscale cabin and an available third row to yield a good family SUV, and that the larger GLC skips the occasional-use third row that gives the boxier GLB its family edge.

The 2020 launch year is the one to be careful with. CarsCounsel (opens in a new tab) says buyers should approach the 2020 launch year with caution due to transmission hesitation and multiple safety recalls, and REREV (opens in a new tab) says the 2020 model year is the worst in the GLB lineup, scoring 59 out of 100 on its reliability index primarily due to structure-related issues and elevated recall volume. Motor & Wheels (opens in a new tab) also names a worst year from reviews and user feedback. Verify open recalls on any 2020 by VIN.

The 2026 GLB is offered with a 2.0L four-cylinder mild hybrid, front-wheel or all-wheel drive, at 23 to 28 mpg combined, about $2,750 to $3,350 a year in fuel by the EPA. ArenaEV (opens in a new tab) reviewed the electric GLB 350 4Matic, with 354 hp, 380 lb-ft, all-wheel drive and an 85-kWh usable battery, and says buyers of the five-seat version sacrifice the flexibility of the two additional seats.

The Car Connection says the Audi Q3 undercuts Mercedes pricing with an attractive starting price and standard all-wheel drive, though its tighter back seat and smaller cargo bay make the GLB more road-trip friendly. For the electric version, cars-data (opens in a new tab) lists the Volvo XC60, Audi Q4 e-tron and Ford Mustang Mach-E as same-class rivals of similar size and price, and ArenaEV picks the Zeekr 7X as closely priced and sized but without a seven-seat option.