SUVs sell like hot cakes these days, so it's no surprise that Mercedes-Benz is currently in the midst of reinforcing its high-riding line-up. And one of the newcomers, which we're here to show you, is the GLB.
The German automaker has made sustained efforts to hide this new development - after its testing debut as a smaller GLA test mule, the GLB prototype started wearing W167 test badging aimed at tricking spy shooters into believing it is the test vehicle for the 2019 Mercedes-Benz GLE.
In fact, the spy clip you'll find at the bottom of the page labels the prototype as a GLE. Nevertheless, since the video kicks off by showing us the vehicle in a parking lot, it's enough to compare the dimensions of the tester to those of the Mazda CX-5 next to it, for example, to figure out this test vehicle is clearly smaller than the GLE.
So once the cladding will be removed and the prototypes will only be covered in psychedelic wrap, we'll be able to get a better idea of how Mercedes-Benz plans to slot a new crossover in between the GLA and the GLC.
With the three-pointed star brand currently working to bring its models as visually close as possible, it will be interesting to see what the designers have planned for the GLA's big brother.
The upcoming compact SUV will be underpinned by the MFA2 platform, which will also be found under the second-generation GLA (here are some spyshots of the latter).
However, the GLB will offer a noticeable increase in cabin space, as well as extra rugged terrain abilities.
Under the hood, we'll find a new modular engine family that's currently in the works. And yes, Affalterbach will also work its magic on the compact crossover.
While the high-riding Merc prototypes will set wheel on the Nurburgring next year, following the current testing procedures, expect the production Mercedes-Benz GLB to land in late 2017, as a 2018 model.
In his quest to bring you the most impressive automotive creations, Andrei relies on learning as a superpower. There's quite a bit of room in the garage that is this aficionado's heart, so factory-condition classics and widebody contraptions with turbos poking through the hood can peacefully coexist. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News