The new Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is the updated entry in the compact SUV segment. It’s essentially the GLC-Class’s baby brother
A spirited drive is guaranteed thanks to the turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine developing 302 hp, in addition to the AMG Speedshift DCT 8-speed transmission and the variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes only 5.1 seconds. All of this dynamic performance also comes with the advantages of an SUV: raised seating position, plenty of space for passengers and luggage and well-balanced off-road abilities.
“With the new GLB 35 4MATIC we are extending our product portfolio by adding a highly attractive model for an active target group that attaches special importance to versatility. This also includes the optional seven-seater capability of our new compact SUV, though without having to sacrifice the genes typical of an AMG. Because in its segment, our GLB 35 likewise fulfills our brand promise of Driving Performance,” says Tobias Moers, CEO of Mercedes-AMG GmbH.
The 2.0-liter 4 banger with in-line turbocharger does 0-60 in 5.1 seconds and can hit 155 mph flat-out, according to Mercedes. Torque comes in at 295 lb-ft from 3000-4000 rpm. he engine also showcases a variety of technical innovations, such as CAMTRONIC variable valve control for lower fuel consumption. Intelligent thermal management ensures a faster and more efficient warm-up of the engine and oil. The compact piezo injectors also deliver fuel precisely for increased efficiency.
The transmission is optimized for quick gearshifts and a sporty driving style, as well as comfort-oriented gearshifts for relaxed journeys. During upshifts, partial ignition interruption produces a sporty sound experience, while the double-declutch function during downshifts improves shifting comfort. This function synchronizes the engine and transmission speeds, minimizing unwanted gas cycle responses and stabilizing the vehicle.
AMG DYNAMIC SELECT and AMG DYNAMICS
The five AMG DYNAMIC SELECT drive programs – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual, enable a variety of driving experiences with a range from serene comfort to agile and sporty. The programs modify key parameters, such as the response of the engine, transmission, suspension and steering.
- The new “Slippery” drive program is optimized for low-grip road conditions, with reduced power and a flat torque curve. Smooth gear changes, earlier upshifts and the ECO start/stop system enhance this stability-focused setting.
- The “Comfort” program emphasizes comfortable and fuel-efficient driving, thanks to adjustments such as early upshifts. Suspension and steering are set up with an emphasis on comfort, and the ECO start/stop system is activated.
- “Sport” and “Sport+” focus on agility and driving pleasure with sporty engine and transmission tuning. The ECO start/stop system is deactivated.
- The “Individual” drive program enables individual parameters to be selected and saved according to personal preferences. In addition, the gliding function is available in the “Reduced” and “Moderate” drive settings.
In the GLB 35, AMG DYNAMICS has the agility functions of “Basic” and “Advanced”, and their functions are automatically activated by the relevant drive program. Relevant parameters such as the all-wheel drive torque distribution, the steering characteristics or the intervention thresholds of the newly developed ESP®(Electronic Stability Program) are intelligently adapted according to the drive program.
- “Basic” is assigned to the “Slippery” and “Comfort” drive programs. In this configuration the GLB 35 has extremely stable handling with a high level of yaw damping.
- “Advanced” is activated in the “Sport” program. The GLB 35 is then neutral and well-balanced. The lower level of yaw damping, reduced steering angles and increased agility enable a more dynamic driving style – for example, when driving on winding country roads.
Optimized traction: variable AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive
The performance-oriented all-wheel drive system continuously ensures the best possible ratio of dynamic performance, traction and efficiency. A multi-disc clutch with AMG-specific electromechanical control allows a variable torque split, which can be instantly changed according to the driving situation. This ranges from purely front-wheel drive to a 50:50 distribution to the front and rear axle. The factors for variable torque distribution include: driving speed, lateral and longitudinal acceleration, steering angle, as well as the difference in rotational speed between the individual wheels and the selected gear.
The all-wheel drive is regulated depending on the selected setting of the 3-stage Electronic Stability Program ESP® – from very stable to highly dynamic. The 4ETS dynamic handling control further enhances handling and agility, especially on slippery surfaces. 4ETS uses brake interventions to keep individual driven wheels from spinning when starting from a standstill or accelerating. At the same time, the differential locking effect enables torque to be shifted to the wheels that are not spinning.
Sporty Interior
The AMG family character is reinforced inside the GLB 35 thanks to its unique sport seats in black MB-Tex / DINAMICA microfiber with red double topstitching, in addition to its striking red seat belts. Two optional leather packages with a choice of two-tone upholsteries, in classic red/black, for example, enhance the interior’s unique look even further.
MBUX With AMG-Specific Displays
The innovative MBUX control and display concept creates an even closer bond between the vehicle and its occupants. The latest version of MBUX also contributes to the high everyday usability of the new GLB 35. Configurable displays such as the particularly striking Supersport mode with a central, round rev counter and bar graph-style driver information display, enhance the interior’s exclusive look.
Whether operated via the touchpad, Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, by voice control or gesture control, MBUX’s control concept is versatile and flexible. Thanks to the innovative voice control – activated using the keyword “Hey Mercedes” – the AI software recognizes and understands practically all common commands in infotainment and vehicle control – even when spoken indirectly.
With three AMG-specific display styles “Classic”, “Sport” and “Supersport”, vehicle functions are visualized on the left side of the instrument cluster, as well as the touchscreen display on the right. Visually, the two displays blend under one shared glass cover into a Widescreen Cockpit. As a central interior element, they also emphasize the interior’s horizontal design orientation.
Optional Third Seat And Safety Features
The new GLB 35 is the first compact car by Mercedes-AMG to be available with a third seat row consisting of two additional individual seats. The optional third seat row also includes fore-and- aft adjustment of the second seat row and an EASY-ENTRY feature. The second seat row has a 40:60 split. The seats can be lowered to be flush with the load compartment floor, providing additional cargo space.
Convenience features in the third row include two drink holders between the seats and two stowage compartments with rubber-lined inserts in the load compartment paneling. Each of these compartments is fitted with a USB charging socket.
Extensive safety equipment inside the vehicle also reinforces its high day-to-day usability. This equipment consists of extendable head restraints, seat belts with tensioners and belt force limiters, a window airbag that also protects the passengers in the third seat row, and i- Size/ISOFIX and Top-Tether anchorages for suitable child seats.
Even more dynamic: the AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension
The optionally available AMG RIDE CONTROL suspension further improves dynamic performance. The adaptive, electronically controlled damping provides a wide range of setups ranging from comfortable to very sporty. The damping is adjusted individually for each wheel and depends on the driving style, road surface and the selected suspension setting.
The best possible operating setting is always selected based on a variety of data, such as acceleration and vehicle speed. Suspension characteristics are modified by simply selecting one of the drive programs: Comfort, Sport or Sport+.
Public Display And Shipping Date
The 2021 AMG GLB 35 will celebrate its World Premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show next September, and will go on sale in the U.S. by late 2020. No Us pricing details have been disclosed.
