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By Jonathan Crouch

The Mercedes GLB Electric represents a big step forward for the brand in its segment, thinks Jonathan Crouch.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 37

The Mercedes GLB Electric is a lower-mid-sized seven-seat crossover EV design for a fresh era of electric SUV motoring. So there's everything here Mercedes currently knows about EV technology. Which turns out to be quite a lot.

Backgroundword count: 127

Mercedes doesn't always get it right first time, but when it doesn't, the company's second stab at any given concept is often a winner. Which might be the case with this car, a full EV, the GLB Electric. We're now into the second generation of GLB design, with this MK2 version announced at the end of 2025. There was an all-electric variant of the first generation GLB too - christened the EQB, offering seven seats and launched in 2021 - but to be frank, it wasn't very good. Driving range was limited, the looks were anonymous and charging speeds were slow. Forget about that now though because this all-electric version of the second generation GLB is a very different proposition - as we're about to find out.

Driving Experienceword count: 182

This second generation GLB is mechanically based on the MK3 CLA, so can offer either full-electric or full-Hybrid power, both powertrains new to a Mercedes model bandaged 'GLB'. The mainstream electric version (whose official name is the 'GLB with EQ Technology') is the 250+. This has a 268bhp rear-mounted motor with 335Nm of torque and is paired (unusually for an EV of this size) to a two-speed transmission (for punchier low speed acceleration). That motor is energised by an 85kWh battery offering up to 393 miles of range. There's also a dual motor electric GLB, the 350 4MATIC, which adds an additional e-motor on the front axle for AWD. This offers 515Nm of torque and improves the 0-62mph time from 7.4s to 5.5s. But range falls to 382 miles. Top speed with both variants is 130mph. If you add in the optional Trailer coupling package, the 250+ can tow a braked weight of up to 1,500kg; with the 350 4MATIC, it'd be up to 2,000kgs. This towing package includes an ESP trailer stabilisation system that can automatically intervene in critical swaying situations.

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