The A-Class sedan was shown for the first time in America last week and while everybody liked the styling, the rear seat seemed on the small side. The GLA crossover might have the same problem, but this new GLB model could be just what the doctor ordered.
Small SUVs from premium automakers are big business. They have the right badge and features, but won't ruin you financially. Audi just showed the second-gen Q3 last week too, and we think it's going to launch in America during the first quarter of 2019.
But Mercedes remains tight-lipped when it comes to the GLB. We think it's a perfect match for the American market. Looking at this video of a prototype testing in Stuttgart, it's almost like the driver could have worn a top hat in there.
While the Q3 was all angular and futuristic, the styling of this Benz is more relaxed with hardly any bold creases. However, the LED headlights are large and have a halo ring around them, which is the most attention-grabbing feature. The back end features long taillights on an upright hatch, reminiscent of the new GLE-Class.
The engines will depend on the market, and by that we mean Europe will have some pretty small ones. Mercedes is sure to use the 1.3-liter 163 HP unit that was developed with the Renault-Nissan alliance. But new 2-liter diesel units with 150 and 190 HP are reportedly on their way as well.
If it comes to America, it should have a "220" powertrain like the A-Class, with 188-hp and 221- lb-ft coming from a 2-liter turbo and sent to the front or all four wheels through a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Price-wise, the GLB should start at under $40,000. So what do you guys think, is it worth bringing over or best left to the Europeans?
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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