Mercedes has begun the road testing of its all-new GLB SUV, which is set to be unveiled in the near future. This new SUV is part of the German carmaker’s announcement to expand its small vehicle line-up to up to eight models, from a current five, by the end of 2020.
The GLB’s styling has been heavily inspired by the Mercedes Ener-G Force concept SUV displayed at the LA Auto Show in 2012. This concept was designed as a futuristic off-roader with G-class-like styling elements mixed with futuristic front and rear design.
The new Mercedes GLB SUV, which is squarely targeted at the BMW X1, is likely to come with both five- and seven-seat layouts. A new modular platform called MFA2 (Modular Front-wheel-drive Architecture) will be the basis for this new SUV as well as all other upcoming small models in the Mercedes line-up which includes the next-gen A-class hatchback, all-new A-class sedan, second-generation CLA sedan, CLA Shooting Brake, new B-Class and the next-gen GLA SUV.
This new platform, which is said to use more high-strength steel for greater stiffness and lower weight, will continue to provide front- and four-wheel drive compatibility, and will be able to accommodate both three- and four-cylinder engines as well as manual and dual-clutch gearboxes. A new nine-speed dual-clutch transmission is set to be used in the 2018 A-class which could also see duty in the upcoming GLB SUV.
With the military-like retro styling mixed with futuristic design cues, Mercedes will aim to provide buyers with a cheaper and more accessible alternative to the larger and more expensive G-Wagen.
The new Mercedes GLB SUV will be positioned above the next-gen GLA SUV, which will continue to get a coupe-like roofline like the current model. The GLB is set to hit international showrooms sometime in 2019.
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