Mercedes‑Benz unveils the new, all‑electric GLB
By Cale Nuttall – 8 Dec 2025
Mercedes‑Benz has taken the covers off its second‑generation GLB SUV, showing off an all‑electric powertrain that will launch worldwide next year. The fresh model will be sold in five‑ and seven‑seater layouts and will start life as a pure electric vehicle before a mild‑hybrid version follows later.
Power & range
| Model | Drive‑type | Power (kW) | Torque (Nm) | Battery | WLTP range (km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GLB 250+ | RWD | 200 | 335 | 85 kWh | up to 631 |
| GLB 350 4Matic | AWD | 260 | 515 | 85 kWh | up to 631 |
Both cars are fed by the same 85‑kWh lithium‑ion pack, giving a surprisingly long WLTP range of up to 631 km on a full charge.
Fast re‑charging
Mercedes‑Benz’s 800‑V system lets the GLB take a 320 kW DC fast charge at any compatible station. The optional DC converter can add 100 km in just 10 minutes. From 10 % to 80 % it only takes 22 minutes. By default the car can charge at 22 kW through an AC wall‑socket.
Space
- Boot (5‑seater) – 540 L
- Boot (7‑seater) – 480 L
- With rear seats folded – 1 715 L / 1 605 L respectively
- Front trunk (frunk) – 127 L in both versions
The GLB still keeps a roomy cargo area, even with six seats in play.
Inside the cabin
The new GLB comes with a “floating” glass‑shaped dashboard. The standard set‑up features:
- 10.25‑inch digital instrument cluster
- 14‑inch central infotainment screen
- Optional 14‑inch display for the front passenger
Everything is tied together by Mercedes‑Benz’s latest digital platform, so the car can receive software updates over the air.
Advanced driver‑assist
Mercedes‑Benz calls its suite of safety tech “MB DRIVE.” It uses:
- 8 cameras
- 5 radar units
- 12 ultrasonic sensors
The system handles adaptive cruise control, lane‑keeping, automated lane changes, urban‑safety (pedestrian detection) and semi‑automatic parking. All of this is run by a water‑cooled, high‑performance computer that can get OTA upgrades.
Availability
The GLB will hit the global market in mid‑May 2026. Locally, the car is expected to arrive, on average, six months later – so you can look forward to the new GLB in South Africa by late 2026.
Mercedes‑Benz has positioned the GLB as a family‑friendly, all‑electric SUV that packs plenty of space, a punchy drivetrain and modern tech. It will be a major addition to the brand’s compact premium lineup when it finally reaches our roads!
