Mercedes-Benz continues to redefine vehicle segments, and the 2021 Mercedes-benz Glb-class perfectly exemplifies this innovation. Positioned strategically between the GLA and GLC, the GLB-Class offers a unique blend of subcompact agility and near-compact spaciousness. It’s not just about size; the GLB distinguishes itself with a design reminiscent of the iconic G-Wagen, offering a more rugged and upright aesthetic than its siblings. Beyond its distinctive looks, the 2021 GLB-Class excels in comfort, luxury, and technology, making it a compelling option in the competitive small luxury SUV market. Notably, it even offers an optional third-row seat, a rare feature in this class, adding to its versatility. While the standard GLB 250 prioritizes comfort and practicality over exhilarating performance, the introduction of the AMG GLB 35 variant this year injects a dose of excitement into the lineup. Overall, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class emerges as a top recommendation, outshining competitors like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Volvo XC40, provided buyers are mindful of option selections to maintain value. Let’s delve deeper into what makes the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class a standout choice in our expert review.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Benchmark in Small Luxury SUVs
Our dedicated Edmunds Vehicle Testing Team rigorously evaluates vehicles, combining track tests with real-world driving assessments across diverse conditions. This comprehensive approach culminates in our Expert Ratings, based on over 30 criteria encompassing every facet of the driving and ownership experience.
Great
8.1/10
edmunds TESTED
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB is an exceptionally appealing luxury SUV, especially considering its price point. Its boxy design is not just aesthetically pleasing but also contributes to enhanced passenger and cargo space. Coupled with class-leading technology, the GLB solidifies its position as a premier small luxury SUV in the market.
Rated by America’s best test team.
Performance: Balanced and Confident
8/10
How does the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class perform on the road? Our tests reveal the GLB 250 achieves 0-60 mph in a brisk 6.5 seconds, placing it among the quickest in its segment. While full-throttle acceleration may exhibit a slight initial delay, the GLB delivers smooth and responsive power under normal driving conditions. It’s not engineered for pulse-racing thrills, but the GLB offers more than sufficient capability for everyday driving needs and beyond. Braking performance is commendable, with easily modulated and robust brakes providing confident stopping power, even in emergency situations. In cornering, the GLB maintains a composed and planted feel, inspiring confidence in various driving scenarios.
Comfort: Superior Ride and Seating
8.5/10
How comfortable is the 2021 GLB-Class for passengers? The optional multi-contour seats, equipped with ventilation and heating, provide exceptional comfort, even on extended journeys. While the massage function operates through subtle seat adjustments rather than traditional massage mechanisms, it effectively shifts pressure points, reducing fatigue on long drives. Rear seats, while positioned slightly lower and shorter, offer adequate thigh support for most passengers. The suspension, tuned for comfort in its standard mode, adeptly absorbs road imperfections, delivering a smooth and compliant ride. While a slight float may be noticeable over large undulations, it remains far from unsettling. Engaging Sport mode firms up the suspension without compromising ride quality. Furthermore, the cabin maintains a pleasantly quiet environment at highway speeds, even on rough road surfaces, enhancing overall passenger comfort.
Interior: Practical and User-Friendly Design
8.5/10
What is the interior like in the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class? The GLB’s elevated ride height and wide door openings facilitate effortless entry and exit. The cabin layout prioritizes user-friendliness, with logically placed controls that quickly become intuitive, minimizing driver distraction. The boxy silhouette of the GLB translates to generous interior space, surpassing many competitors in its class. Large windows contribute to excellent outward visibility, enhancing driver awareness. A minor drawback is the undersized sun visors, which offer limited coverage when moved to the side.
Technology: Cutting-Edge and Intuitive
8.5/10
How advanced is the technology in the 2021 GLB-Class? The GLB excels in its technology offerings, featuring Mercedes-Benz’s acclaimed MBUX infotainment system alongside Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. MBUX stands out as a user-friendly and comprehensive system, offering multiple control methods. Voice commands are generally accurate, although processing times can occasionally be slightly delayed. The GLB’s driver-assistance features are particularly noteworthy. Adaptive cruise control functions seamlessly in both heavy traffic and open highway scenarios. The lane-keeping assist system, while occasionally assertive, effectively maintains lane positioning in most situations.
Storage: Versatile and Capacious
8/10
How practical is the 2021 GLB-Class for cargo and storage? The GLB leverages its boxy shape to maximize cargo capacity, accommodating large and bulky items with ease. A low cargo floor liftover height and the standard power liftgate simplify loading and unloading. Ample storage solutions for personal items include generously sized door pockets and a sizable center bin. Cleverly designed spring-loaded cupholder tabs securely hold various beverage sizes. For family use, the GLB proves highly functional. While rear-facing infant seats can be accommodated, it may require adjusting rear seats fully back and front seats to a reasonable position. We noted that some car seat bases could be slightly challenging to latch onto the GLB’s anchor points.
Fuel Economy: Competitive Efficiency
7.5/10
How fuel-efficient is the 2021 GLB-Class? EPA estimates for the GLB indicate 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving, making it slightly more fuel-efficient than many rivals in its class. Our real-world testing on a 115-mile evaluation route yielded 26 mpg, aligning closely with EPA estimates. This suggests the EPA figure is realistically achievable with mindful driving habits.
Value: A Strong Proposition
7.5/10
Does the 2021 GLB-Class represent good value for money? The GLB strategically bridges the gap between the GLA and GLC in terms of both size and price. It presents a compelling option, particularly when considering its base configuration. However, extensive optioning can rapidly escalate the price, potentially nearing the territory of the more refined GLC. Compared to other extra-small luxury SUVs, the GLB may carry a slightly higher price tag, but this is justified by its superior space, performance, and comfort. While material quality in some areas may not be uniformly premium, the overall impression of the GLB aligns with its price point, offering good value within its segment.
Wildcard: Distinctive Style and Emerging Performance
8/10
The 2021 GLB’s boxy and upright styling imparts a traditional SUV aesthetic that resonates with many buyers. Is the GLB inherently exciting? In the GLB 250 guise, not particularly. However, the introduction of the AMG GLB 35 variant addresses this, promising a more thrilling driving experience for those seeking enhanced performance.
Edmunds Recommendation: Choosing the Right 2021 GLB-Class
For a broad spectrum of drivers, the base GLB 250 (or the 4Matic all-wheel-drive version for regions with challenging weather conditions) is an excellent all-around choice. However, for drivers with a penchant for performance, we enthusiastically recommend the AMG GLB 35. Its potent 302-horsepower engine and performance-tuned suspension transform the GLB into a genuinely sporty small SUV. While it commands a significant price premium, the AMG GLB 35 delivers a driving experience that justifies the investment for performance enthusiasts.
Compare 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class trim levels Helpful trims summary and side-by-side comparison chart
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Models: Trim Levels and Features
The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is offered as a small, entry-level luxury SUV with standard five-passenger seating and an optional third-row for two additional (smaller) passengers. The model lineup comprises three distinct trim levels: GLB 250, GLB 250 4Matic, and AMG GLB 35.
The GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The GLB 250 features front-wheel drive, while the 4Matic variant comes standard with all-wheel drive. The AMG GLB 35 boasts a high-output version of the same engine, generating 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, also coupled with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive.
GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic The base GLB 250 trim is generously equipped with features including:
- LED headlights
- Power liftgate
- 18-inch wheels
- Aluminum roof rails
- Heated side mirrors
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Push-button start
Key interior features include:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- MB-Tex simulated leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory
- Sliding and reclining rear seats
- Household-style 115-volt power outlet
Standard technology and safety highlights:
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- Touchpad controller
- Digital instrument cluster display
- Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration
- Four USB-C ports
- Blind-spot monitoring
- Forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking
AMG GLB 35 Building upon the GLB 250, the AMG GLB 35 enhances performance and features, including:
- More powerful engine and standard all-wheel drive
- 19-inch AMG wheels
- Aluminum and brushed stainless-steel interior trim
- 10.25-inch infotainment display
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster display
- Customizable ambient cabin lighting
Both the GLB 250 and AMG GLB 35 offer a wide array of optional features, available individually or within packages. Notable options include:
- Driver Assistance package (adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, lane keeping system, enhanced blind-spot monitoring)
- Panoramic sunroof
- Adaptive sport suspension
- Third-row seats
- Leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Keyless Go touch door lock/unlock
- Navigation system
- Burmester premium sound system
- Wireless charging pad
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