With no less than six different model lines, the Mercedes-Benz SUV range was already exceptionally extensive, but the brand always knows how to find a hole. The compact cap promises a lot of space and even a third row of seats and thus competes with a real family SUV like the Peugeot 5008. Should the Frenchman be concerned?
GLA, GLC, GLE, GLS, G-Class, EQC and coupe versions of the GLC and GLE: Even before the arrival of the GLB, SUV buyers had plenty to choose from at Mercedes-Benz. With such a fleet of models, it is almost inevitable that they will crawl closer together. Thus, the cap is very close to the GLC. The newcomer is only two inches shorter than its bigger brother. Although it saves five centimeters in width, thanks to a higher and more square body, the GLB offers 565 to 1,800 liters more luggage space than the GLC, which has to do with 550 to 1,600 liters. But the differences are big under the skin. The GLC is based on the rear-wheel drive C-class and the GLB is one of the seven model variants to date on the front-wheel drive MFA2 platform. All the more remarkable that it is not the GLC, but the lower positioned third row row cap that is available.
The Peugeot 5008 proves that there is a great need for this. His five-seater brother 3008 does not remain in the sales rankings, but is also a well-known appearance on our roads. Cars like this 5008, the Skoda Kodiaq and the Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace are on the shoulders of a hard task, as traditional midi MPVs have almost completely disappeared. It is to be hoped that the buyer group that would have ended up in a Zafira or Touran in the past, now has an (even) firmer budget. Especially when it comes to the Mercedes. The GLB 180d tested here is the cheapest diesel version, but even in this 116 hp variant, the car still has to yield at least € 53,257. For a similar amount Peugeot has the absolute top version of the 5008 ready, the 180 hp BlueHDi 180 in GT trim.