When it comes to SUVs, the options are nearly endless. You can choose from compact, large, rugged, fast, hybrid, and even fully electric models. So, where does the Mercedes GLB fit in?
It stands out as one of the few premium-badge seven-seaters that doesn’t feel like it takes up the whole road.
Beneath the surface, it shares a lot with the Mercedes B-Class MPV. But don’t let the "B" fool you—it’s no small fry. Like its main competitor, the Land Rover Discovery Sport, it’s designed for those who often need to transport a lot of people or cargo.
While the Discovery Sport is its closest rival, you might also be considering the similarly priced Audi Q5 and BMW X3—though those are five-seaters. If the premium badge isn't essential but seven seats are, other solid options include the Hyundai Santa Fe and Peugeot 5008.
Equipment, options and extras
The entry-level Sport Executive trim covers all the essentials, featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system, and various visibility aids.
Upgrading to the AMG Line Executive trim brings a few extra perks, like 19-inch alloy wheels, tinted rear windows, ambient interior lighting, a wireless phone-charging pad, and a sportier exterior look. It’s also the most affordable trim with our preferred 220d engine, making it our top pick.
The AMG Line Premium trim adds just a bit more, with an augmented reality sat-nav, blind-spot monitoring, and an upgraded sound system.
At the top of the range is the AMG Line Premium Plus trim, offering 20-inch alloy wheels, adaptive LED headlights, a panoramic sunroof, and electrically adjustable front seats with memory functions. While it’s the most well-equipped option, the high price makes it hard to recommend.
Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2
The entry-level Mercedes GLB is priced well below its premium seven-seat competitor, the Land Rover Discovery Sport, and even undercuts luxury five-seat SUVs like the Audi Q5 by a significant margin. In fact, it’s also more affordable than the Hyundai Santa Fe and only slightly pricier than the Peugeot 5008, although these two—particularly the Santa Fe—offer more interior space.
One advantage of the GLB’s premium badge is its slower depreciation rate (though not as slow as the Discovery Sport), which makes its PCP finance deals quite attractive compared to some non-premium options.
Our preferred engine, the 220d, holds up well against the Discovery Sport D200 in terms of official fuel economy. Plus, all diesel models are RDE2 compliant, meaning there’s no 4% diesel benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax surcharge, keeping company car tax costs lower.
Safety and security
The Mercedes GLB earned a full five-star safety rating from Euro NCAP in 2019. However, it’s worth noting that comparing its score with newer rivals is a bit challenging, as testing standards have become stricter since then. The GLB performs well overall, with no major safety concerns, though there is a slightly elevated risk of adult chest injuries in a side impact.
Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep assist, and attention assist. To get blind-spot monitoring, you’ll need to upgrade to the AMG Line Premium trim.
For families, the GLB is equipped with Isofix points on each of the third-row seats and the two outer seats in the second row, ensuring secure child seat installation. Additionally, all GLB models come with a Thatcham-approved alarm and immobilizer for extra security.
Reliability
The Mercedes GLB comes with a three-year warranty with unlimited mileage, which is fairly standard for this class of vehicle. Additionally, Mercedes provides roadside assistance for both the UK and Europe, giving you extra peace of mind while traveling.
If you’re looking for the best warranty coverage available for a seven-seat SUV, though, the Kia Sorento offers an impressive seven-year warranty.
The Car Planet verdict
The Mercedes GLB shares many similarities with the Land Rover Discovery Sport but offers a bit more punch if you choose the 220d diesel engine, our preferred option. It’s a solid choice for families, though the firm ride can be a drawback. For the best balance of features and value, we recommend the AMG Line Executive trim.
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