2021 Mercedes GLB: Unveiling the Compact SUV That Packs a Punch

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB emerges as a compelling option in the compact SUV segment, offering a unique blend of versatility, luxury, and performance. Whether you’re navigating city streets or embarking on a weekend adventure, the GLB is engineered to impress. This article delves into the specifics of the 2021 Mercedes Glb lineup, highlighting its models, features, and what makes it a standout choice for discerning drivers.

2021 Mercedes GLB Models and Pricing

Mercedes-Benz offers the 2021 GLB in a range of models to cater to diverse preferences and needs. The lineup begins with the GLB 250, available in both front-wheel drive (FWD) and 4MATIC all-wheel drive configurations, and culminates in the high-performance AMG GLB 35.

Here’s a breakdown of the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Prices (MSRP) for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB models:

Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 (FWD): $38,050
Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 4MATIC: $40,050
Mercedes-AMG GLB 35: $49,500

Note: Prices exclude a $1,050 destination and delivery charge.

These prices reflect the starting point for each model, and can be adjusted based on optional features and packages selected.

What’s New for the 2021 GLB? Enhanced Features and AMG Performance

The 2021 model year brings notable enhancements to the Mercedes-Benz GLB, further solidifying its position in the market. For the GLB 250 and GLB 250 4MATIC models, Blind Spot Assist and a convenient 115V outlet now come standard, enhancing both safety and practicality.

Standard Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) shown in the 2021 GLB, offering advanced voice control and intuitive operation.

The most significant addition to the 2021 GLB lineup is the introduction of the all-new AMG GLB 35. This performance variant injects sheer AMG driving pleasure into the versatile GLB platform. It combines the practicality and spaciousness of the GLB with the exhilarating performance and dynamic handling characteristics synonymous with the AMG brand.

2021 GLB Standard Feature Highlights: Luxury and Technology

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB is generously equipped with a suite of standard features designed to provide a luxurious and technologically advanced driving experience. Key highlights include:

Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX): This revolutionary multimedia system features intuitive voice control with natural language understanding (“Hey Mercedes” keyword activation), creating a seamless and interactive in-car experience.
Digital Displays: A 7-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and a 7-inch Touchscreen Multimedia Display provide crisp and clear visuals for vehicle information and infotainment functions.
LED Lighting: Equipped with LED headlamps for enhanced visibility and a modern aesthetic.
Smartphone Integration: Seamlessly integrate your smartphone with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for access to navigation, music, and communication apps.
Power and Memory Seats: Enjoy the comfort and convenience of 8-Way Power Driver and Passenger Seats with 3-Position Memory, allowing for personalized seating preferences.
Adjustable Rear Seats: Rear Seats with 7-Stage Inclination and Forward/Backward Adjustment enhance passenger comfort and cargo versatility.
Integrated Fog Lights: Improve visibility in adverse weather conditions.
Multifunction Steering Wheel: A leather-wrapped Multifunction Steering Wheel with Touch Control Buttons and Shift Paddles puts essential vehicle controls at your fingertips.
New-generation Touchpad: Provides an alternative input method for the MBUX system.
18-inch Wheels: Stylish 18-inch wheels paired with all-season run-flat tires offer a balance of aesthetics and practicality.
DYNAMIC SELECT: Allows drivers to tailor the vehicle’s driving characteristics with selectable driving modes.
Rearview Camera: Enhances safety and convenience when reversing.
KEYLESS-START®: Offers push-button engine start convenience.
Dual-Zone Climate Control: Provides individual temperature settings for driver and passenger comfort.
Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed for relaxed highway driving.
Power Liftgate: Offers convenient access to the cargo area.
Active Brake Assist: Helps mitigate or avoid frontal collisions.
Adaptive Braking Technology: Includes Hill-Start Assist and a brake HOLD feature for added convenience and safety on inclines.
Crosswind Assist: Enhances stability in strong crosswinds.
ATTENTION ASSIST®: Monitors driver behavior and provides alerts if drowsiness is detected.
Mercedes-Benz Emergency Call Service: Provides automatic emergency assistance in critical situations.

These standard features underscore Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to providing a well-equipped and sophisticated entry-level luxury SUV.

AMG GLB 35 Standard Feature Highlights: Performance Elevated

Stepping up to the AMG GLB 35 brings a significant boost in performance and sport-focused features, building upon the already impressive standard GLB features:

AMG-enhanced Engine: Powered by an AMG-enhanced 2.0L Inline-4 turbocharged engine, producing a robust 302 horsepower.
AMG Steering Wheel: Features a new-generation AMG steering wheel with Touch Controls for a sporty and ergonomic feel.
Widescreen Displays: Upgraded to widescreen dual displays with a 10.25-inch Digital Instrument Cluster and a 10.25-inch touchscreen Multimedia Display for a more immersive and informative visual experience.
LED Lighting: Includes LED headlamps and taillamps for enhanced visibility and aesthetics.
AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G Transmission: Equipped with an AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission for rapid and precise gear changes.
AMG Performance 4MATIC: Features AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel-drive for enhanced traction and handling dynamics.

The sporty interior of the AMG GLB 35, showcasing the widescreen displays and AMG specific design elements.

The AMG GLB 35 elevates the GLB experience, delivering thrilling performance without sacrificing the practicality that defines the model.

2021 GLB Optional Feature Highlights: Customization and Upgrades

To further personalize your 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB, a wide array of optional features and packages are available. These allow you to tailor the GLB to your specific preferences and needs:

GLB Optional Features:

3rd Row Seats: Increase passenger capacity with the optional 3rd Row Seats, making the GLB a versatile seven-seater.
Premium Package: Enhances convenience and technology with Blind Spot Assist, 10.25″ media display with Touchscreen, 10.25″ digital instrument cluster, KEYLESS-GO® Package, and auto-dimming and power folding mirrors.
Multimedia Package: Adds advanced navigation and connectivity features including MB Navigation, Augmented Reality for Navigation, and Traffic Sign Assist.
Parking Assistance Package: Simplifies parking maneuvers with a Surround View System and Active Parking Assist.
Exterior Lighting Package: Upgrades to Active LED Headlamps and Adaptive Highbeam Assist for superior nighttime visibility.
Driver Assistance Package: Incorporates a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems for enhanced safety and convenience (detailed further below).
AMG Line & Night Package: Exterior styling enhancements for a sportier or more aggressive appearance.
Multicontour Seats: Provides customizable seat adjustments for optimal comfort on long journeys.
Burmester® Surround Sound System: Delivers a premium audio experience.
SiriusXM® Radio: Access a wide range of satellite radio channels.
Panoramic sliding sunroof: Opens up the cabin to natural light and fresh air.
Suspension with Adaptive Damping System: Allows for adjustable ride comfort and handling dynamics.
64-Color Ambient Lighting: Customize the interior ambiance with a wide spectrum of lighting options.
Inductive Wireless Charging & NFC Pairing: Provides convenient wireless charging for compatible devices.
Heated and ventilated front seats: Enhances comfort in various weather conditions.
Illuminated Star: Adds a distinctive illuminated Mercedes-Benz star emblem to the front grille.
Heated Steering Wheel: Provides warmth and comfort during colder months.
Head-Up Display: Projects key driving information onto the windshield for enhanced driver awareness.

AMG Optional Features:

Third seat row: Unique to the AMG GLB 35 in the AMG compact SUV range, offering seven-seat capacity.
AMG Night Package: Adds darkened exterior styling elements for a more aggressive look.
AMG RIDE CONTROL Sport Suspension: Further enhances handling performance with adaptive damping.
AMG Performance Steering Wheel: Available in Nappa Leather or DINAMICA for a premium sporty feel.
AMG Drive Unit Steering Wheel Controls: Provides quick access to AMG dynamic settings.
AMG Track Pace App: For performance enthusiasts, this app records and analyzes driving data on track days.

2021 GLB Technical Feature Highlights: Innovation Under the Hood

Beyond its luxurious features and performance, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB boasts innovative technical features that contribute to its driving experience:

Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX): As mentioned earlier, MBUX is a cornerstone of the GLB’s technology, offering an intuitive and intelligent in-car interface. Its voice control, touchscreen, touchpad, and steering wheel controls provide multiple ways to interact with the system.
Off-Road Engineering Package (GLB 250 4MATIC Standard): This package enhances the GLB 250 4MATIC’s off-road capabilities with an additional “Off-Road” drive program, optimizing power delivery and ABS for varied terrain. It also includes a media display showing driving situation details like gradient and inclination angle, and Downhill Speed Regulation (DSR) for controlled descents on steep slopes.

The Off-Road Engineering Package display showing driving parameters, standard on the GLB 250 4MATIC.

Optional 3rd Row Seat: The optional third row expands the GLB’s versatility, offering seating for up to seven passengers. The table below highlights the seating configurations:

| | Five-seater