By Otsile Kadiege

Shortly after announcing the local availability of the updated GLA, the brand’s compact seven-seater (optional) GLB follows suit with updates that are similar to the GLA. Like its sibling, the GLB facelift introduces mild exterior and interior design and styling updates, new technologies, improved safety features, and more standard equipment.

 Updated GLB exterior

Outside, the GLB sports a redesigned front bumper with visual underbody protection. The SUV radiator grille with four horizontal louvres and central star underlines this impression. The athletic shoulder shape, with coherently modelled side graphics, creates an interesting interplay of light and shadow and a visually width-accentuated rear end.

New striking full-LED headlights and rear lights enhance the appearance, with the range of options now expanded with four additional wheel designs and a new Spectral Blue Metallic paint colour. In basic trim, the new GLB is fitted with 18-inch five-twin-spoke alloy wheels in high-gloss black with high-gloss turned surfaces. However, the GLB can also be configured with 19- to 20-inch wheels.

Updated GLB interior

Updates to the interior of the GLB include a free-standing double screen which now includes a 7-inch and a 10.25-inch display as standard for the instrument cluster and multimedia screen respectively. Two 10.25-inch wide-screen displays are optionally available. They run on Mercedes-Benz’s latest MBUX infotainment system and also feature wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity.

The steering wheel of the current generation is upholstered in leather as standard; Artico imitation leather is available as an alternative. For further connectivity, the GLA now has an additional USB-C port and increased USB charging power. All USB ports are now illuminated.

Updated GLB improved safety features

Through Active Steering Control, an upgrade of the Driving Assistance Package enables more comfortable control of Lane Keeping Assist. The next generation of the Parking Package also supports longitudinal parking with 360-degree visualisation for camera-assisted parking. For the first time, the GLB also offers Trailer Manoeuvring Assist, which facilitates reverse manoeuvring with camera support. The prerequisite is the trailer hitch with ESP trailer stabilisation in conjunction with the Parking Package with 360-degree camera.

Performance

Unlike the GLA which offers both petrol and diesel engine options, the GLB is solely available with the latter which is a 1.9-litre turbodiesel engine developing 140kW and 400Nm. It’s paired with an eight-speed DCT dual-clutch transmission as standard and Mercedes-Benz claims an average fuel consumption between 6.4 – 5.7l/100km.

Pricing

GLB 220d – R1,116,100 (incl. S&M incl. VAT)

GLB 220d 7 seater – R1,133,700 (incl. S&M incl. VAT)