Mercedes is revamping its compact car lineup to fend off competition from BMW’s smaller models. While Munich has not offered a seven-seat car since ceasing production of the 2 Series Gran Tourer a few years ago, Stuttgart still sees demand for a three-row car in this category. Enter the second-generation GLB, previewed today ahead of its world premiere on December 8.
Coming to the U.S. for the 2027 model year, the small crossover retains its boxy exterior but adopts an all-new interior. In line with CLA and CLA Shooting Break Introduced earlier this year, the redesigned GLB features a three-screen design to attract buyers. However, the MBUX Superscreen setup will be optional, as base versions will ditch the passenger-side display.
Mercedes didn’t reveal screen sizes, but we’re likely looking at a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and dual 14-inch touchscreens. The layout appears to have been carried over from CLAcomplete with some physical controls placed in front of the “floating” center console. In essence, everything you like (and don’t like) about the new CLA is here.
The starry sky effect of the panoramic glass roof with illuminated stars will be an option at an additional cost. Similar to the CLA, the upper section of the GLB can switch from transparent to opaque within milliseconds at the touch of a virtual button in the infotainment system. A closer look at the driver display confirms that this is an AMG Line model, while other details include a head-up display and a Burmester sound system.
Photo by: Mercedes-Benz
The main difference between the CLA and GLB is at the rear, where Mercedes It offers an optional third row with two individual seats. A sliding second row is standard on seven-seat versions and optional on five-seat models. When not needed, the rear seats fold flat into the load floor to increase cargo capacity.
Mercedes hasn’t shared technical specifications yet, but an increase in size is expected, and not just because the CLA has grown significantly. We’re told there’s now “significantly” more legroom in the 2027 GLB’s second row. The nearly flat roofline enhances headroom for first- and second-row passengers compared to the previous model. It is worth noting that even the basic version comes with a glass roof, although it lacks the illuminated star pattern and variable transparency.
The new GLB is expected to mirror the CLA’s powertrain, offering single- and dual-motor EV variants along with a mild-hybrid setup built around a 1.5-litre turbocharged ‘M252’ four-cylinder engine. In the CLA, the transversely mounted gas engine is paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and sends power to the front wheels or the available all-wheel drive system. Meanwhile, the electric CLA features standard rear-wheel drive and the optional 4Matic system.
The Mercedes compact car will continue to be renewed with the next generation GLA and The smallest G class. In addition, a direct replacement for the A-Class is scheduled to arrive “in the long term,” according to Matthias Geisen, Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales. It is still unclear whether it will be offered in hatchback and sedan forms as before or just a five-door hatch. However, a next-generation B-segment minivan is not planned.
