The Mercedes-Benz GLB is a standout option in the premium compact-to-mid SUV class. It offers real interior space, flexible seating and a practical layout—rare among luxury SUVs. In India, the GLB is one of the few Mercedes SUVs that can genuinely seat seven people without forcing small children into tight third-row seats. The 2025 model brings updated features, strong safety credentials and a family-friendly package that works well on Indian roads.
Quick Spec Table — Mercedes-Benz GLB (India, 2025)
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Segment | Compact / Mid-size Luxury SUV |
| Seating | 5 standard; 7 optional with third row |
| Engine Options | 1.3L Turbo Petrol (GLB 200); 2.0L Diesel (GLB 220d) |
| Power / Torque | Petrol ~130–160 PS, Diesel ~190 PS & 400 Nm torque |
| Transmission | Automatic (7/8/9-speed depending on variant) |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive; 4MATIC AWD on select trims |
| Length / Wheelbase | ~4,634 mm / ~2,829 mm |
| Ground Clearance | Moderate, suited for city and highway use |
| Boot Space | Practical with seats folded; retains usable cargo area with third row |
| Key Features | Digital cockpit, MBUX, driver-assist tech, panoramic sunroof |
| Price Range | High ₹60 lakhs to low ₹70 lakhs ex-showroom (variant dependent) |
What is the Mercedes-Benz GLB and why it matters
The GLB sits above the compact GLA and below the larger GLE and GLS SUVs. Its design balances upright practicality with Mercedes styling and premium cues. The tall roof, long wheelbase and boxy profile give it a strong family-friendly interior. Engine options include efficient petrol and diesel units, and many trims offer Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel drive. What stands out is that some versions can include a full third row of seating, making it one of the most practical luxury SUVs for real family use in India.
Price positioning and competition in India
Mercedes positions the GLB as a premium family SUV that competes with the BMW X1, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC40. However, the GLB’s real advantage is space and seating flexibility. In India, the GLB’s ex-showroom price in 2025 typically falls in the high ₹60 lakh to low ₹70 lakh range. Final on-road price depends on local taxes, registration, and optional features. Recent adjustments in import duties and tax policy have also influenced pricing in 2025.
Engine options and drivetrain setup
Buyers in India have a choice between petrol and diesel engines. The entry petrol version is the GLB 200, which uses a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine tuned for efficiency and urban comfort. For buyers who plan long drives or trolley-heavy commuting, the diesel GLB 220d is available with a 2.0-litre engine that offers higher torque at low revs. Both engines are paired with smooth automatic gearboxes that make daily driving effortless. An optional 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system is available on higher trims, which adds extra traction in monsoon conditions or rough terrain.
Interior space, seating flexibility and family usability
The biggest plus point for the GLB is its packaging. With a long wheelbase and tall profile, rear-seat legroom and headroom are generous. As an option, a third-row seat can be added, allowing the GLB to carry up to seven occupants. While the third row is best suited for kids or short adults, it opens up real flexibility for families that occasionally need extra seating. The boot space remains usable, even with the third row deployed, and folding down the rear seats gives a flat, wide cargo area for luggage or weekend gear. For buyers seeking a luxury SUV that can truly carry family and luggage, the GLB stands out.
Also Read. Mercedes-Benz GLA 2025 Review — Stylish Compact Luxury SUV for Indian Buyers
Dimensions, ground clearance and practical numbers
The Mercedes GLB measures about 4,634 mm in length, with a generous wheelbase of roughly 2,829 mm, providing stability and interior space. Height and width give the GLB a commanding stance without making it difficult to drive in city traffic. Ground clearance is moderate and suitable for Indian roads, handling speed breakers and uneven patches with confidence. Boot space varies by seating layout, but with three rows folded the GLB provides a practical, spacious load bay that meets the needs of weekend travel or family errands.
Interior finish and comfort features
Step inside the GLB and you find a well-made cabin that feels upscale without being fussy. The dashboard features a modern, clean layout with a digital instrument cluster and a central infotainment screen. Materials are soft and tactile, and higher trims offer options such as leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, and a premium Burmester sound system. The seats are supportive and adjustable, suited for long drives on highways or city errands. Rear air vents, thoughtful storage cubbies and good visibility make the GLB practical every day, not just on rare road trips.
Features and technology for modern Indian buyers
The GLB is equipped with a strong feature set. The standard and optional kit includes a digital cockpit, MBUX infotainment, connected-car technology, wireless phone charging, multiple USB-C ports, and a panoramic roof in higher trims. Driver assistance features range from parking sensors and reverse cameras to advanced semi-autonomous aids such as parking assistance and adaptive cruise control in top trims. Mercedes also provides over-the-air software updates, which means the car’s features can improve over time.
Ride, handling, and driving refinement
Mercedes tunes the GLB for a calm and composed ride. The suspension absorbs urban imperfections well, and at higher speeds the SUV remains stable and planted. Steering is light and easy in city driving but firms up nicely on open roads. Diesel versions with 4MATIC AWD provide better traction, especially during monsoon or in hilly terrain. Brakes feel progressive and confidence-inspiring. The GLB is not aimed at sporty dynamics—it is designed to be comfortable, safe, and easy to live with every day.
Safety and driver assistance package
Safety is one of the GLB’s core strengths. It comes with a full set of airbags, ABS with electronic brake distribution, traction control, electronic stability control and ISOFIX child-seat mounts. Higher trim levels offer driver-assist features such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system. For families, these features offer both active and passive safety, reducing fatigue and risk — especially on long highway trips.
Fuel efficiency and ownership costs
Fuel economy in real-world Indian conditions depends heavily on traffic and driving style. Petrol GLB variants typically return decent mileage in city use, while diesel versions outperform on long drives and highway cruising. Maintenance costs for the GLB are higher than mainstream SUVs but are comparable to other luxury SUVs. Mercedes offers service packages and extended-warranty options to make ownership more predictable — something many luxury owners find valuable.
Ownership advice for Indian buyers
When selecting a GLB for Indian use, choose the petrol engine if most driving is in the city or short distance commuting. The diesel engine becomes worthwhile for buyers who expect frequent long-distance driving or need higher torque for loaded conditions. Pick the 4MATIC AWD version if you live in monsoon-prone or hilly regions. When negotiating purchase, consider add-ons such as maintenance packages and extended warranties — these can significantly reduce surprise expenses over years of ownership. Before buying, also check the availability of authorised service centres in your city or region.
How the GLB compares with rivals in India
The main rivals to the Mercedes GLB include the BMW X1, Audi Q5 and Volvo XC40. The BMW X1 offers sharp handling and a driver-focused feel. The Audi Q5 is spacious and well-equipped with advanced features, while the Volvo XC40 focuses heavily on safety. The GLB’s unique selling point is its space and flexibility — especially the option for seven seats. If your priority is family space and a luxury badge, the GLB stands out as a practical choice without compromising on comfort.
FAQs — Answers for Indian Buyers
1. Can the Mercedes GLB truly seat seven people?
Yes — the GLB can be configured with an optional third-row bench. While most practical for children or short adults, this option gives real flexibility for families who occasionally need seven seats.
2. Should I choose petrol or diesel?
If you’re mostly driving in urban areas or commuting daily, the petrol GLB 200 will be efficient and easy to live with. If you frequently drive long highway stretches or heavy payloads, the diesel GLB 220d offers better torque and economy.
3. Is the 4MATIC all-wheel drive worth it in India?
4MATIC AWD provides better traction during the monsoon or in hilly terrain. If you spend time in wet, uneven or muddy routes, it is worthwhile. For primarily city and highway driving, front-wheel drive offers lower cost and sufficient capability.
4. How expensive is maintenance for the GLB?
Maintenance costs are higher than mainstream SUVs, but are in line with premium vehicles. Mercedes service packages and extended warranties help make ownership more predictable.
5. How does the GLB stack up against BMW X1 and Audi Q5?
Compared to the BMW X1, the GLB trades sharper handling for more space and flexibility. Against the Audi Q5, the GLB offers more family-friendly seating, especially if seven seats are important. Each rival has its own strength — the GLB’s niche is space, comfort and practicality.
Conclusion – Is the Mercedes-Benz GLB worth considering?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB 2025 is a strong contender if you want a luxury SUV that offers more than just badge appeal. It’s practical, well-sized, flexible and comfortable, making it an excellent choice for families who want the refinement of a Mercedes without compromising on space. Whether it is the optional third-row, generous boot room or comfortable ride, the GLB brings convincing value. If you want a premium SUV that works for real life — including carrying people, luggage and the occasional passenger — the GLB deserves serious attention.
Author- Ayush
