New Mercedes GLB Emphasizes Large Screens and Features | Carscoops

      The second-generation GLB is set to be revealed next month, featuring new technology, a larger interior, and a variety of powertrain options.

      Mercedes has begun teasing the revamped GLB prior to its official unveiling on December 8. This crossover continues the legacy of the CLA and includes a technologically advanced interior that accommodates up to seven passengers.

      While specific details remain undisclosed, Mercedes has confirmed that the GLB will offer an optional MBUX Superscreen. This system is anticipated to integrate a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14-inch central infotainment display and an additional 14-inch display for the passenger.

      Additionally, buyers will benefit from the latest Mercedes-Benz Operating System, featuring an MBUX Virtual Assistant with avatars and Google Maps navigation, as well as significant artificial intelligence capabilities.

      Aside from technology, the GLB showcases circular air vents and a modern floating center console, which contains substantial cup holders and an optional wireless smartphone charging system. A new steering wheel design complements five- and seven-seat arrangements.

      What Other Interior Enhancements Are There?

      Mercedes has not disclosed specific figures but indicated that the redesigned crossover offers "noticeably more headroom in the first two rows." Passengers in the second row can look forward to increased legroom, enhanced thigh support, and an adjustable backrest.

      The convenience of third-row passengers has also been improved for easier entry and exit. The rear seats can fold flat into the load floor when not in use.

      A standard panoramic glass roof is included, with an option for an upgraded version that can swiftly switch from clear to opaque. There is also a choice for an illuminated roof featuring a “starry sky” effect.

      Regarding the roof, it incorporates heat-insulating laminated safety glass and an infrared-reflecting coating, which helps keep the interior cool in summer and reduces heat loss in winter.

      The GLB will provide a "comprehensive array of driver assistance systems," supported by "eight cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors, and a high-performance water-cooled computer equipped with adequate power reserves for future functionalities and regular over-the-air updates."

      Testing Is Ongoing

      With its debut just weeks away, the manufacturer is completing testing at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen. This includes cold-weather assessments in climate-controlled wind tunnels capable of simulating temperatures as low as -40° F (-40° C).

      Mercedes mentioned that these tunnels are equipped with advanced snow cannons that can recreate severe blizzard conditions, with snowflakes hitting the test vehicle at speeds up to 124 mph (200 km/h).

      These tests seem to have been effective, as the new GLB EQ heats the interior twice as quickly as its predecessor during a 20-minute drive in temperatures of 19.4° F (-7° C). This performance surpasses that of a conventional model and consumes half the energy compared to the previous EQB.

      The company stated that this increased efficiency improves range and is partly due to an innovative heat pump that captures waste heat from the electric motors, battery, and ambient air.

      Electric and Hybrid Powertrains

      Mercedes has not disclosed performance details, but the GLB EQ is expected to be outfitted with an 85 kWh battery pack and at least two different powertrains. The base model may feature a rear-mounted motor generating 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque.

      Additionally, a dual-motor all-wheel-drive configuration is anticipated, producing a combined output of 349 hp (260 kW / 354 PS) and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque.

      Customers can also anticipate a range of hybrid powertrains that combine a 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine with a 1.3 kWh battery pack and an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission equipped with an integrated electric motor. In the European CLA, this setup delivers outputs of 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) and 206 lb-ft (280 Nm), along with 181 hp (135 kW / 184 PS) and 243 lb-ft (330 Nm).