Mercedes Pulls A Small 3-Row Rabbit Out Of Their Hat | 2020 GLB 250
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- čas přidán 7. 05. 2020
- I was prepared to dismiss the GLB as a useless styling exercise, but after a week with Mercedes's newest crossover I changed my mind. This is the best Mercedes I've driven this year and one of the best new vehicles on sale today. If you're shopping for a lower end GLC or even a GLE (gasp!) you should probably check the GLB out. Seriously.
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IMHO: This is exactly the CUV/SUV that Acura, Lexus, Cadillac, etc could have and should have given us.
The Acura and Lexus would have much better reliability and lower cost of ownership in the long run so not really a fair comparison, even if they're similar MSRP
I think for most of the people buying the MDX or similar sized 3 row SUVs, the 3rd row seat is folded 95% of the time and then you get a significantly larger cargo area than the GLB. With the seats up, the comparison is very valid and very tricky.
For $60 grand? Really?
And it won’t sell very well because the value just isn’t there, especially once you add active safety features.
I would rather buy the RDX with more power and a traditional automatic. I am not a fan of DCTs.
Cheaper and below GLC yet more spacious and less predictable design from Mercedes. This crossover really is a great model.
I as a automotive enthusiast, I follow auto journalists on CZcams. Your presentation and delivery can be compared with the triumphs of the industry. I'd appreciate your review. Thank you.
The Mercedes GLB and BMW X3 really put the Acura RDX and Lexus NX to shame. People want badges and low MSRP prices.
I'm 6'7" and the GLB gave me so much more space that I had in the GLC. Uncomparable.
That's exactly why they are going to sell tons. I am tall also so you really get some room and actual second seat room. If you are small and your family small, you will actually get three rows. Something for everyone.
Exactly this! The GLB is tall person friendly as well as family friendly. Truly, I'm finding it hard to justify why the GLC exists in the line up.
So interior space is bigger in GLB than GLC?
@@koston777 glc is already quite old and its really needing a replacement
I'm 6'6 and couldn't agree more, I was going to buy my wife the Macan But they're simply aren't any. When we pivoted to Mercedes the GLC was the direct equivalent, but after going to the dealership it was very clear the GLB was the right choice. She absolutely loves it and I am truly astonished at what 221 horsepower feels like. Don't get me wrong it would definitely lose against something with more horsepower in a longer distance race, but driving around town it has plenty of pep, it's faster than my wife can drive for sure. Very spacious inside. The closest comparison I can make is the Tardis, I keep getting out of it looking it and getting in getting in it not understanding how it's so big and so small. Lol
I bought one two weeks ago after test driving one for a whole day. It’s an extremely impressive car but with a few options the drive away price here in Australia was $AUD90K. That’s about $60k US. Yes, it’s not a cheap car but it is a quality item. After driving a Range Rover Sport for five years, I decided to go smaller and this is the car I chose. I’m not disappointed. Beautiful ride and a very quiet cabin. The GLC still has last generation tech. The GLB is bang on up to date in that respect. People should not be comparing Mazdas and Toyotas etc with this car. This is a Mercedes Benz. The rest are just other cars.
Best part of this review is the comparisons to its competitors. Incredibly valuable information.
I just bought 2021 GLB. It has the 3rd row and surprisingly my son who is 6’ was able to sit moderately comfortably in the back. So it is good to know that if I absolutely needed to pack his friends in the car they could all fit.
Terrific video Alex. One of the most comprehensive car reports out of thousands I have watched. The multi-screen segments were fun and inventive. Some much information packed in to one video. You definitely do you homework!! Thanks for the hard work
Excellent objective review! I really like that you put each car into context as it really helps to conceptualize where the reviewed stands.
I looked at all the models you mentioned and ended up getting the Mercedes GLB, didn’t know a thing about it when I started. But as I test drove others and then the GLB, I was smiling behind my mask! I couldn’t say no! Thrilled with it and the screen navigation is so intuitive and just the right size.
Sir, I have to say that you reviews are so detailed. I also like the comparison table you show. Great work!
I want to say your new Graphics to illustrate different stats are terrific..... Great review .... thanks
Mercedes interior design,materials and infotainment compared to cars in a similar price range such as Acura,Lexus,Volvo,Lincoln,Cadillac are just unbeatable and it seems that they are relentless in their zeal to remain at or near the top.
As an owner of 2020 GLB, I can tell you that the nice looking integrated double exhausts are just decorations... I love this car nonetheless!
Standard Mercedes / Audi, I’m going for the GLB35 so I’m hoping they’re both real 😅
How is the cabin noise? That's my only worry now.
@@jimbush80528 that's unfortunately very personal and impossible to tell. In my opinion, it's fine, but opinions do and will vary wildly. I suppose I could drive around and record an average decibel level, but in all honesty, it would be pointless. Go to the dealer and take a test drive. You wouldn't want to buy it anyway without driving first, would you?
It’s just standard Mercedes now, Audi do it as well. It makes the car look nicer so I don’t think it’s an issue really
Alex, thanks for the detailed review. I bought a brand new 2021 GLB for a little over 40k. I'm fairly satisfied with the car, compact size with 3rd row and great fuel economy. There are a few annoyances: 2nd row seats don't come all the way down when the seats are moved all the way forward, making it hard to get to the 3rd row; Android Auto is not full screen; and the back vents are basically airless unless the fan is at the highest setting and front vents are closed.
Nowdays in Germany you get for 40k EUROS a used glb
How does Alex have less than 350k subscribers? So informative and never shows a mistake! 🤩
Alex: you are absolutely the very best in reviewers, as seen again and again, especially in this video. So much info and especially the charts while you speak..so great. That said, this GLB is a stone cold winner. I wouldn't even consider the GLC anymore with this kind of rear seat room. Could care less about the third row, even though I have 7 grandkids, as I just can't imagine it being as safe for them (maybe in a GLE) and "in a pinch" is not an issue. What you get in this model is what you do get... and in most cases, what you don't get... in the next class up (GLC/X3/XC60), and that is a small footprint with big space for the urban environment (easy to zig and zag and park, but with all the room of the next class, especially in the second row). Plus, you can have it how you want it, i.e., if you want to spend 40, or 55, it's there. This is the swiss knife of SUV's, something for everyone and every use. The sweet spot will be 50ish for most people as you mentioned you would spec it, but that's only a few thousand more than most XC40s and the (tiny inside) X1 and the same as any well spec'ed Evoke, which has zero rear room. In those three, you can't sit anyone over 5'9" in the back seat...not super comfy like this. This just fits a category all by itself and they are going to sell tons. It's direct competitor will wind up being all those and all the luxe vehicles from the next class up (X3/XC60/GLC/Disco Sport), and I am afraid, quite a bit for the GLC itself, but as said, this has so much more to offer. I don't, by the way, even mention Acura, etc. in the same breath..too old school and time for a real refresh. The GLB will also be coming in PHEV hybrid, likely with over 40 miles electric !! That will be near impossible not to buy, especially for us city-dwellers. Thank you.
Mark Geller A new first year Mercedes made in Mexico, not Germany. I’ll pass.
Mark Geller great comments and so true. The main difference with the GLC is a bit less power and not as luxurious interior.
@@tonypi4322 the US version is the same as the Euro version so I don’t see the problem
Best part of your review is at the end where you compare to its competitors. Hardly any other reviewer does that. Very informative. I test drove the GLB and the only -ve is a couple of times i checked the side mirrors as i thought a Hellcat was coming up on me. Heard a rumble. After a while realized that was the GLB engine noise. So the B score for cabin noise i would agree. Maybe 2021 will improve.
Cross shop with Land Rover discovery sport, Acura MDX, Lexus rxl, and Infiniti QX60. Maybe even throw in a GMC model. I know I'll be considering the GLB for my next car and I'd like to cross compare it against these few if I'm going to consider it for my next car. Thank you so much for all the work you do and all of your reviews!!! They're the best!!!
I like the space efficiency of the FWD/transverse engine configuration the GLB has. If I bought this, it would be as an upgrade from a BMW X1 (also FWD/transverse engine) for the extra cargo space.
That very good mpg it getting. well done Mercedes. I till going for the RAV4 Hybrid, Good review as always Alex.
This is the one Benz I would buy. Would have been nice to see legroom comparisons against FWD compact crossovers like the RDX and Corsair.
One of the best car reviews with comparable stats to give viewer context. Can you do a GLB 35 review? Pretty please?
You provide the most thorough reviews...thank you.
Wow Alex, your review is incredibly useful. Thank you so much....
Wow the new mercedes lines are all great looking, hard to choose one! GLB45 would be awesome.
On the lot in Chantilly, VA they had a GLB with the third row back seat. Looked tight but nice to have in a pinch, likely best for kids.
Excellent, and well-structured review!!!
The GLB reminds me of the GLK, which I loved. If I had the money, I'd wait on the GLB35.
That's exactly what I thought, too. I like the look of this... it's like a lifted wagon and more of the squared off look just like the GLK.
@@bassandtrebleclef some people say Forrester of old. Which I like. Prob why I like this GLB as well. SUVs are getting too rounded for me.
looking forward to picking one up in the spring
Absolutely useful review, as always. How would you compare this to Lincoln Nautilus? If I had to pick between the two?
The third row has been available in the US for months now. There is one in a dealer in Long Island.
I’m happy to see the GLK product concept has been given a continuation, and what a continuation this is! Great car (hoping to see a hybrid thrown in there too) and great review - Alex has nailed the review formula🙏🏻
Love the diamond front
Everyone calls it the baby G-wagon, Im glad you have the logic to see more GLS
Which makes it a GLK
Baby Got Back! Alex, you crack me up.
Hi Alex! Thank you for the great review for the GLB. Did you have a chance to test the Driver Assistance package features (steering assist, adaptive cruise with route based speed adaption?)
I'm told the semi-autonomous features of this merc are the closest to Tesla's Autopilot (when compared to other brands). What are your thoughts? Thanks.
THIS is how you do car reviews. Literally every other car reviewer on CZcams needs to take note.
Like your review which is very thorough in particular the comparison between choosing GLA, GLB & GLC as it’s true that this is causing me difficult to pick as I want some options as must have for myself such as 360 camera, Burmester speakers etc. but adding those to GLB 250 is similar price to a standard GLC 300 in Hong Kong. I can get a cheaper GLA 200 with all options I like loaded even with AMG line but there is NO rear a/c ventilation available in GLA 200 in HK which is weird even if I’m willing to pay for extra!
BTW Can’t find your GLC 300 review. Is it available yet? Love to see it !
There is at least 1 in america, as Raiti's rides in Florida went over one at a dealer, and as a grown adult (i think like 5'10" or 5'11") he fit in the third row just fine, which blew him away.
Well worth the money for a GLB250! I am thinking of ordering one for $57K! Black or Silver model! Cannot decide!
The GLB might be the best vehicle Mercedes makes today when it comes to value, bang for your buck. He's right. This is clearly a better vehicle than the GLC.This just needs a AMG 35 variant and it would be perfect
Woke AF Why ruin it with the AMG treatment (and price)?
A GLB AMG 35 version is coming soon. Mercedes confirmed it.
Yep. GLB 35 is confirmed, GLB 45 is unconfirmed but 99.99% certain.
Alex on Autos when is GLB 35 coming out?
@@jonah5814 it is available in europe right now..no clue about NA
Would you recommend glb250 compare to Lexus rx350?
Hello Alex, where do you get your legroom numbers?. I have mentioned this to you in the past (on the BMW X5 review), but according to two different sites and MBUSA it self, it says the GLE cabin legroom is 40.3" Front and 40.9" Rear making the total 81.2". That would make it 1.7" more than this GLB. I'm 6'7" tall and mostly leg and have personally tested GLEs and was impressed at the roominess (looks like I'd be still impressed with the GLBs as well). Agree with peoples comment on the road noise, I'm a bit shocked a Honda CRV (@70db - your test) has less road noise than the GLB and feel that is a major negative. Also, would you put this GLB above the Cadillac XT5 for handling (I really like how that one handles).
Excellent review!
I very like the styling - with the exception of these big fake air intakes at the front. The front would look so good with solely that nice grill.
I think the GLB 35 would be the sweet spot here, providing that it's not too expensive!
Looks 100X better with this grille over the 3-bar
So for those who have driven the 2020 GLB 4matic and a BMW X3 2020 XDrive. Which one would you choose in regards to real world safety? Cause in the end it all sounds good in paper but when you crash, it's a different story.
Great review. Subscribed
Does the interior creak?
In some markets, people want cheaper MB 3-row crossover. That's why GLB came out. Still wondering how it compares to GLC regarding mechanical parts.
Does anyone know if the GLB will be able to tow in the future?
Alex can you include maintained costs in your closing ?
I’m not a fan of the styling of most of the Mercedes line up. I like Audi’s and BMWs more, but this one I like. Can’t wait to see the AMG versions. Sadly I would only be able to afford the basic model with a few options.
I'd consider the GLB's direct competition is more like a Toyota Highlander, except the highlander comes with more options even at its base level than a GLB. Even the top level Highlander is much lower priced than top level glb 250. However, I much prefer the looks and the headroom [ I'm 6'5"] of the GLB. I like the boxier looking suvs like old range rovers though. But bang for the buck the toyota wins hands down in my book. However, Im still considering a glb 250 if I can get it for the right price.
I bought one little over 2 months ago with the 3rd row. My kids fit fine. I'm local Alex if you want to check it out!
I wish he had the 3rd row in the review. He click baited me
3rd row is surprisingly spacious. I’ve sat in many of them. I’m 5-10. There are even usb hookups. Definitely worth the extra cost in my opinion.
@@fcex558 I get between 28-30 hwy mainly
@@pawelzieminski6717 that is the one we would get!
Great review 👏😌
M.B.U.X. Alex lol that's the 3rd time I've heard you call the infotainment system "M-Bux" and the steering wheel is the same in every Mercedes outside of the AMG dynamic steering wheel, not a bad looking car though the AMG version is nice but I'm so tired of the "TruckTrend", we now have like 10 different SUV tiers now... Great video 👌🏾👌🏾
When will Genesis GV80 be available?
Is there a Snarf’s of CA?
Mercedes makes a nice car for sure but...I think I'll stick to my fully loaded CX-5 for half the price with all the same features. Plus a heads up display! And regular gas. Yes I know they are different "classes" of cars (former Mercedes owner). But I'd rather have more features imo
ArcAngel9008
😂
And that’s what this class of cars exist, some people are the opposite and just want the brand and the premium build quality
It only a Mazda! No MB!
HW2800 cabin noise B....poor job
Jonathan Hidalgo quality? Cabin noise got a B...poor job from mb
I guess I'll get my hopes up when these show up CPO for $30K.
My! Seems the M.B. SUVs are slicing their GL platform quite thin in the marketplace! I sort of get it. However if it were my own money the GLC would be my 1st choice if the GLE was not an option.
What colour is this
“Baby got back”
Are those saucony’s
We really liked the size, legroom and interior of the GLB, but we couldn't find one with all the safety features and no AMG add-on's on the West Coast back in February. Being retired, I really liked the safety tech, but was disappointed and surprised that none of the dealers in the West Coast region even had one that wasn't decked out with extra AMG styling options that push the price up to 55k+. The noise level may have stopped us, as we planned to travel to see family. We needed to get a new vehicle and couldn't wait, so we dropped the GLB from off our list.
Thank you. This video convinced me to buy the manual transmission Hyundai Venue.
$60K! I can’t stop laughing.
@Tyrel Tolliver C'mon, Amy just has this car because Karen, her mom, got it for her 18th birthday.
And Benz is laughing all the way to the bank.
If u cant afford it dont shop for it. As for us that can we will happily buy 1:)
3rd Row option is just $800 and well worth it, even if you don’t use it it’s always nice to have in case you ever do need to. It helps making it more versatile.
I actually really like this
The GLC 300 and the GLB have fake exhaust tips. If you want a hitch it’s a factory option on the GLC Not available on the GLB, nor is there an aftermarket hitch at this time. I ended up going with the GLC.
The proportions of the GLB look off IMO.
If you option Mercedes carefully by staying close to a base model, you can save thousands.
If you even upgrade wheels they make you take several premium packages in addition, some of which are useless to me- Auto braking/lane nanny (texting package)
Why can't it tow? Or can it ?
Next model to come... GLD
Just when you thought that MB couldn't fit anymore SUV's/crossovers into their lineup....this would be No.8 if I'm not mistaken making them the brand with the most extensive lineup!
But for real, I dropped my pen when he said $60k! That's dropping almost another GLA on top!
Yea it's kinda over kill to be honest
Carmakers can make a crossover/SUV made literally out of shit and buyers will still buy it because it's a crossover. You see it all the time. Crossovers with horrible fuel economy, mediocre cargo space, ridiculous 3rd rows etc. are sold to tens of thousands of Americans who are eager to show off their shiny new crossover/SUV to their friends and family. Sad.
@@andrew.woolman7449 That is also common to see in the Asian market. I will say marketing plays a huge role instead of people's real needs.
Really thank you for this video, I was waiting for this ❤
I wish that you would tell us a little about service intervals and costs for the transmissions, as it is probably the largest single continuous service item.. The GLB has an 8 speed DCT, and Feldman Imports (Minneapolis) was telling me that one engine/transmission package has a 30k service interval and it included a 4 cylinder engine. They could not verify 8spDCT or 9spd auto, and current transmissions all require a new pan so it was a $900 cost for the scheduled transmission service alone. I was told that there was a 60k service interval for one with a 6 cylinder engine, presumably the 9spd auto. So the GLBs savings on fuel is more than made up for on scheduled transmission service costs assuming that this is the 30k service interval.
I suppose it is assumed that if you have to ask that you cannot afford it, but on the other hand if a person does not budget their money whether their income is $30k or $3million then they will have financial problems.
In VW around 2018, the DSG (DCT) transmissions required a $500 service every 40k miles, the Tiptronic a $300 service every 100k miles and the manual, nothing just don't kill the clutch (maybe this is why manuals have been made less available). Audi is similar but (surprise) more expensive so I look carefully at DCTs for this reason. Most people are not prepared. The GLB is also not rated for towing.
This is where Mercedes competes with itself. What an amazing vehicle. I have no hope of ever getting one of these, but my or my, Mercedes did a wonderful job on this vehicle. The Goldilocks car for me. It is just right in so many metrics. I think Mercedes has a hit here. Also the looks really aren't that polarizing at least to me anyway. If I was of better means and needed a crossover, this would be the top of my list. Your mileage may vary of course.
amazing legroom from front drive compact engineering. looks like Mercedes is all in for the SUV/crossover segment. the GLB looks odd and looks squished, i saw one last week in the supermarket parking lot. i pointed it out to my wife who said., "yeah ok" and had no interest in it. i think for FWD i would go with the X1 because its nicer looking and more bang for the buck.
Definitely not more bang. Tiny inside. Go sit in one of these, I have. That X1 is Evoke sized small. That pales next to this in space ands roominess. It also feels cheap.
@@markgeller5900
drove the current x1 a few months ago when i was changing my oil, nothing wrong with it.
@@bird718 I can only surmise you are not 6 foot + as I am. I am also slim and felt completely cramped by that cabin, tight in the front seat (which is a very narrow seat), as well as the one in the X2 which sits on the same platform. What most people miss, until they sit in the new GLB, is that it has the legroom (or more) of the next class up, say X-3, XC40. The X1 is very tight compared to this, both legroom and width/spaciousness of cabin. Go sit in one you will see what I am talking about and why this GLB is a bit of a revelation in this class.
That's a Very Nice Looking "Baby" Benz C.U.V.!!!
Shares a platform with the Infiniti QX50.
All the things I really want in a car are decent cabin room and a comfortable upright seat, good visibility, and being easy to manoeuvre in tight spaces. Most small luxury crossovers should fit the bill but so many compromise on all three in an effort to look sporty; the fact that the GLB doesn't makes it the best one on the market as far as I'm concerned.
Torus2112 The GLB is very close to the ground. It’s like a first generation Subaru Forester.
@@afcgeo882 Doesn't matter, the position is upright so I'm happy.
I"m suprised reviewers are not mentioning GLB"s FWD torque steer which the AWD should fix, and less cabin and road noise insulation than higher models. Drove it as a loaner and really liked it otherwise.
Worried that every review I’ve watched the leather looks creased on the middle row which I’d assume has barely been sat on in a demo car... My M2 has gone that in the front but I’ve done 35k miles and it’s going for a GLB in the new year.
Wasn’t this model teased as an off-road cuv? Where is the off-road model?
Alex you are a funny guy "Baby got Back"
Can you compare GLB vs RDX in terms of overall interior and cargo space ?
I have leased both. The RDX is a little wider, and it’s trunk a little bigger. B it the GLB does more with its slighter smaller space.
For example, you get more head room in the second row, as well as more leg room (plus reclinable back seats, the RDX doesn’t recline). So as far as the first two rows go, this GLB is more comfortable than the RDX. Plus, depending on the options (I have real wood, for example) the materials feel nicer.
We have a third row, and you can fit adults on it, if you space the first and second rows strategically. The RDX has no third row option.
The RDX has a slightly longer cargo area, but the slopping roof line makes it impossible to haul people back there, and I can see certain appliances such as a flat screen TVs fitting better on the GLB because of this.
Because the GLB allows you to set down the middle seat in the second row (The RDX eliminates one of the big seats on the second row of you must haul long cargo, because the middle row can’t be set down by itself), as wedding photographers, we have found the GLB to be much more conventional as we can store light and flash stands on the middle while still carrying two assistants on the back seat. This would be impossible to do on the RDX, despite its larger cargo area.
My conclusion is that the GLB is one of the most practical and spacious luxury cars that you can buy for the price point. Certainly, it is in the compact suv luxury category, the most practical.
Hecho en Aguascalientes Mexico 🇲🇽
GLB is like the Jeep Campus. Larger than the Sub-Compact Renegade but smaller than the Compact Cherokee
Isn't the Telluride actually the better choice in almost every metric including a much nicer interior environment and reliability?
This is more comparable size-wise to the Sorento but yeah it still applies haha. With some stunning and well built new interiors from Kia, Subaru, Mazda, and Hyundai, I don't understand why Merc and other luxury car makers can get away with these price tags on a compact...
@@fcex558 Agree with everything you say but things may be changing as Kia and Hyundai relentlessly up their game, Especially when it comes to Genesis. If they had separate dealerships I think the luxury brands would be concerned. The upcoming G80 & G80 are throwing down a gauntlet. Far more striking in appearance than anything from the luxury competition. Have a feeling if you pull up in one of these people are going to take note. Pull up in a Mercedes and it's just another Mercedes.
Three letters: MPG
@@philsalley3278 A lot of Mercs look fairly bland next to Genesis's new lineup
LOL, no
Missing comparision to Alfa Romeo Stelvio (but it is to GLC and V60??).
You notice the specs on Alfa? First, it's the next class up, GLC/XC60, etc., second, smallest rear legroom of the next class. Goid looking, but woefully bad rear seat legroom. Watch the video again, numbers were there.
The best car review
I'm surprised that your surprised!
I have zero interest in this car but watched the whole video to support Alex.
Mercedes needs to make more standard for their crazy high prices.
I miss a boxy upright vehicle like this since my old Subaru Forester. Too bad it’s a Mercedes-Benz.
This car is for a person who wants a Mercedes Benz suv and knows about cars .