GLB
Unveiled in Utah on June 10, 2019, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is a compact SUV developed to combine a relatively upright body, elevated seating and more passenger space than the GLA. Its most distinctive launch feature was the availability of up to seven seats through an optional third row, an unusual proposition in this segment. The GLB sits between the GLA and GLC in Mercedes-Benz’s SUV range, but its boxier proportions and shorter overhangs give it a more utility-focused appearance than the GLA. The first generation, known by the X247 designation, uses the brand’s compact-car architecture together with MBUX infotainment and, depending on market and specification, the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. In 2026, the nameplate expands into a new-generation GLB with EQ technology, marking a clear move toward an electric interpretation of the model.
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Variants by year
Make: Mercedes-Benz · Model: GLB
2 / 2 versions shown
2026
2019
Mercedes-Benz GLB photos
Model summary
Data from the ScanRacer library, organized to compare versions quickly.
Model introduction
Unveiled in Utah on June 10, 2019, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is a compact SUV developed to combine a relatively upright body, elevated seating and more passenger space than the GLA. Its most distinctive launch feature was the availability of up to seven seats through an optional third row, an unusual proposition in this segment. The GLB sits between the GLA and GLC in Mercedes-Benz’s SUV range, but its boxier proportions and shorter overhangs give it a more utility-focused appearance than the GLA. The first generation, known by the X247 designation, uses the brand’s compact-car architecture together with MBUX infotainment and, depending on market and specification, the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. In 2026, the nameplate expands into a new-generation GLB with EQ technology, marking a clear move toward an electric interpretation of the model.
History
The GLB first appeared as a concept at the Shanghai motor show in April 2019, followed by the world premiere of the production vehicle in Utah on June 10 of that year. Mercedes-Benz was targeting a space between the lower, more urban GLA and the larger GLC. The decision to use a tall, relatively angular body served a practical purpose: it created enough interior room for an optional third row with two additional seats. Mercedes-Benz stated that those rear seats were intended for occupants up to 1.68 metres tall, making them better suited to occasional use than the first two rows. Production and sales began toward the end of 2019, depending on the market, with four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines and several drivetrain configurations. The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC later added a performance-oriented version to the range. An update for the 2023-2024 period brought revised exterior details, refreshed multimedia equipment and an adjusted powertrain offering in selected markets. In 2026, Mercedes-Benz introduced an all-new GLB focused on electric propulsion. This version carries EQ technology and a newer digital architecture, while the X247 remains the model’s established combustion-powered generation. Exact equipment, model names and availability continue to vary by country.
Generations
The first GLB generation is the X247, launched in 2019. It belongs to Mercedes-Benz’s compact-car family and shares its technical foundations with other compact models from the brand, while using a longer wheelbase and body design aimed at improving interior space. Its appearance is defined by tall sides, short overhangs, relatively upright glazing and protective body cladding that give it a more traditional SUV character. Inside, it follows the MBUX design and interface strategy introduced across Mercedes-Benz compact cars of the same era. Depending on specification, the GLB can be ordered with five or seven seats. An update introduced around 2023 revised selected exterior details and digital equipment without creating a separate generation. The early 2019-2022 vehicles should therefore be distinguished from the facelifted X247, although the basic body and packaging remain closely related. For 2026, Mercedes-Benz introduces a new-generation GLB with EQ technology. Official information describes it as an electric model using a newer Mercedes-Benz digital architecture and the MB.OS operating system. It should not be treated as merely another electrified trim of the X247: the technical direction is different, even though the GLB name and family-oriented purpose continue. Market launch timing, equipment and final specifications may vary by country.
Key differences
The 2019 GLB X247 is distinguished by its more upright body and its ability to offer seven seats, whereas the GLA uses a lower, more compact shape. Its relatively long wheelbase improves room for the second and third rows, although the two rearmost seats are better suited to children or occasional journeys. The availability of 4MATIC, particular engines and the third row differs by market and equipment level. The 2023-2024 facelift mainly introduced styling and equipment changes. The GLB announced for 2026 represents a more substantial break: it adopts EQ technology and a new-generation electric architecture. Comparisons involving power, range and charging should be made using data for the relevant country, because published specifications and model availability are not identical worldwide.
Photo recognition
An X247 GLB is usually identifiable by its tall, almost rectangular profile, fairly level bonnet, upright pillars and gently tapering roofline. At the front, the lamps and grille sit within a more vertical face than the one used by the GLA. In side view, the long wheelbase and short overhangs create a concentrated, practical shape between the axles. Roof rails and lower protective trim can reinforce its utility-oriented appearance, although both depend on specification. To separate early vehicles from facelifted examples, examine the lighting signatures, bumper designs, wheels and cabin presentation. These details also vary by model year and market, so they cannot always establish an exact year on their own. The AMG GLB 35 can be recognised through AMG-specific styling, including a different grille treatment and sportier trim. The 2026 GLB with EQ technology should be treated as a separate design and technical proposition, since its electric architecture distinguishes it from the combustion-powered X247.
Important versions
The most significant versions include the 2019 launch GLB, which established the idea of a compact family SUV with five- or seven-seat potential, and the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC, which added a performance focus to the X247 range. Versions equipped with 4MATIC are especially relevant to buyers seeking additional traction, although availability depends on the engine and market. Within the ScanRacer context provided, two entries are listed: a “Base” version for 2019 and a “with EQ technology” version for 2026. The latter corresponds to the new-generation electric direction announced by Mercedes-Benz. Commercial names, trim levels and intermediate powertrains may differ between countries, so they should not be inferred from the variant name alone.
The name “GLB” follows Mercedes-Benz naming, with its rules and its exceptions. Decode a Mercedes-Benz name
References
- First ride: Mercedes-Benz GLB 2019 prototypeAutocar
- 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB: Compact SUV With Third-Row Option Joins Nascent NicheCars.com
- New GLA and GLB: More sport and more featuresMercedes-Benz Denmark
- The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLBMercedes-Benz Media
- 2026 GLB 250 SUVMercedes-Benz USA
- https://mbworld.org/articles/2020-mercedes-benz-glb-250-bigger-badder-roomier-sportier/mbworld.org
- https://group.mercedes-benz.com/documents/sustainability/product/mercedes-benz-environmental-check-mb-glb-eq.pdfgroup.mercedes-benz.com
Frequently asked questions
- What years was the Mercedes-Benz GLB produced?
- ScanRacer's referenced versions cover 2019 - 2026.
- How many Mercedes-Benz GLB examples are documented on ScanRacer?
- 3 published scans from 3 members, with the latest photo added in August 2026.
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