The 2022 Mercedes-benz Glb-class carves out a unique space in the luxury compact SUV segment, prioritizing practicality and spaciousness without sacrificing the premium experience expected from the Mercedes-Benz brand. This review delves into the details of the 2022 GLB-Class, exploring its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it’s the right vehicle for your needs. If you’re in the market for a versatile and technologically advanced small SUV, the GLB-Class warrants serious consideration.
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class: Overview and Key Features
Unlike many of its sleek and coupe-like competitors, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class adopts a boxier silhouette, a design choice that significantly boosts its interior volume for both passengers and cargo. This distinctive shape is more than just aesthetic; it directly translates to class-leading space in the extra-small luxury SUV category. Mercedes-Benz has engineered the GLB on the same front-wheel-drive architecture that underpins the smaller GLA, but the GLB maximizes this platform to deliver a surprisingly roomy cabin.
Sharing engines and the option of 4Matic all-wheel drive with the GLA, the GLB-Class offers a familiar powertrain lineup, including a spirited AMG variant for drivers seeking enhanced performance. True to its Mercedes-Benz lineage, the 2022 GLB-Class is packed with cutting-edge infotainment and safety technologies. Occupants will appreciate the comfortable seating for up to five adults (or even seven with the optional, albeit small, third row) and the excellent visibility afforded by its upright design and generous window areas. The overall driving and passenger experience in the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB distinguishes it from rivals like the BMW X1 and Volvo XC40, offering a unique blend of luxury and utility. For those prioritizing interior space in a compact luxury SUV, the GLB-Class stands out as a compelling option.
Edmunds Expert Rating: A Deep Dive into the GLB-Class
The expert vehicle testing team at Edmunds rigorously evaluates each vehicle, combining objective track testing with real-world assessments across diverse driving environments. Their comprehensive analysis results in Edmunds Expert Ratings, based on over 30 distinct scores evaluating every aspect of the automotive experience. The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class earns a “Great” rating of 8.1 out of 10 from Edmunds, a testament to its well-rounded appeal in the luxury SUV market.
Edmunds TESTED
Edmunds highlights the GLB as an attractive luxury SUV that offers excellent value. Its boxy design contributes to both a distinctive appearance and enhanced passenger and cargo space. Coupled with advanced technology, the GLB-Class is recognized as a leading contender in the small luxury SUV segment. Edmunds’ rating is backed by “America’s best test team,” ensuring a credible and thorough evaluation.
Performance: Balanced and Capable
Rating: 8/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 demonstrates commendable performance. Edmunds testing recorded a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.5 seconds, placing it among the quicker vehicles in its class. While full-throttle acceleration exhibits a slight delay, smooth and responsive starts are easily achieved with moderate pedal input. The GLB 250 prioritizes composed capability over outright driving excitement, aligning with typical SUV owner needs. Braking performance is noteworthy, offering both easy modulation for smooth stops and impressive strength for emergency situations. In cornering, the GLB maintains a planted and secure feel, inspiring driver confidence.
Comfort: Designed for Relaxation
Rating: 8.5/10
Comfort is a clear strength of the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. The optional multi-contour seats, equipped with ventilation and heating, provide exceptional comfort even on extended journeys. While the “massage” function technically subtly adjusts seat angles rather than providing a traditional massage, it effectively shifts pressure points to mitigate fatigue during long drives. Rear seats, while positioned lower and shallower, remain comfortable for most adults, with only taller passengers potentially desiring more thigh support. The suspension in Comfort mode is tuned for softness, adeptly absorbing road imperfections and delivering a smooth ride. While minor floatiness may be noticeable over large undulations, it remains well-controlled. Sport mode firms up the suspension without compromising ride quality. The cabin effectively isolates road and wind noise, ensuring a pleasantly quiet highway experience, even on rough road surfaces.
Interior: Spacious and User-Friendly
Rating: 8.5/10
The interior of the 2022 GLB-Class is thoughtfully designed for ease of use and spaciousness. The elevated ride height and wide door openings facilitate effortless entry and exit, eliminating the need for excessive stepping up or bending down. Once inside, controls are logically positioned and quickly become intuitive to operate, minimizing driver distraction. The boxy exterior design truly benefits interior space, surpassing many competitors in roominess. Tall windows provide excellent outward visibility, enhancing driver awareness and confidence. A minor drawback is the undersized sun visors, which may not provide complete sun blockage when positioned to the side.
Technology: Cutting-Edge and Intuitive
Rating: 8.5/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class excels in its technology offerings. Standard inclusion of Mercedes-Benz’s MBUX infotainment system, along with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, provides seamless connectivity and entertainment. MBUX is widely praised for its user-friendliness and multiple control methods, including voice commands, touch controls, and steering wheel buttons. Voice command processing is generally accurate, although occasional slight delays may occur. The GLB’s driver-assistance features are particularly well-executed. Adaptive cruise control operates effectively in both heavy traffic and open highway driving. The lane-keeping assist system, while generally helpful, can occasionally be overly assertive in lane centering, though this is infrequent.
Storage: Practical and Versatile
Rating: 8/10
The GLB-Class’s boxy shape truly shines when it comes to cargo capacity. It readily accommodates large and bulky items, and the low cargo floor lift-over height combined with the standard power liftgate simplifies loading and unloading. Ample storage for personal items is provided throughout the cabin, including large door pockets and a generously sized center console bin. Thoughtful details like spring-loaded cupholder tabs securely hold various beverage sizes. For families, the GLB proves to be a practical choice. Rear-facing infant car seats can be accommodated, though it requires sliding the rear seats fully back and adjusting front seats accordingly. Some users may find the car seat anchor points slightly challenging to latch onto.
Fuel Economy: Competitive Efficiency
Rating: 7.5/10
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class achieves EPA-estimated fuel economy of 25 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is on par with the average for its class. Edmunds’ real-world testing yielded 26 mpg over a 115-mile evaluation route, slightly exceeding expectations and indicating the EPA figure is realistically achievable with mindful driving habits.
Value: Premium Features at a Competitive Price Point
Rating: 7.5/10
The GLB-Class strategically positions itself between the smaller, more affordable GLA and the slightly larger, more expensive GLC within the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup. It presents a compelling option for buyers seeking a balance of size, features, and price. However, exercising restraint with optional features is advisable, as extensive customization can quickly escalate the price, potentially pushing it into GLC territory, which offers a more refined experience. Compared to other extra-small luxury SUVs, the GLB-Class may carry a slightly higher price tag, but this is often justified by its superior space, performance, and comfort. While some material choices may reflect its entry-level positioning, the overall perceived quality of the GLB-Class aligns with its price point, making it a worthwhile investment in the luxury compact SUV segment.
Wildcard: Utilitarian Appeal with AMG Potential
Rating: 8/10
The 2022 GLB-Class distinguishes itself with its upright, boxy styling, projecting a more traditional and utilitarian SUV aesthetic that resonates with many buyers. While the GLB 250 model prioritizes practicality over outright driving thrills, the introduction of the AMG GLB 35 variant caters to drivers seeking a more engaging and dynamic driving experience within the GLB family.
Which 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Model Does Edmunds Recommend?
For most buyers, Edmunds recommends the GLB 250 4Matic. While the AMG GLB 35 offers exhilarating performance, the GLB 250 4Matic provides a more balanced and value-oriented proposition. Choosing the 250 4Matic allows you to allocate budget towards desirable comfort, infotainment, and safety upgrades, enhancing the daily driving experience without the premium price of the AMG model.
Compare 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class trim levels
2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Models: Trim Levels and Configurations
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is available in three distinct models:
- GLB 250: The base model, offering front-wheel drive and a well-equipped standard feature set.
- GLB 250 4Matic: Adds Mercedes-Benz’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system for enhanced traction and all-weather capability.
- AMG GLB 35: The performance-oriented variant, featuring a more powerful engine, AMG-tuned components, and sportier styling.
Both the GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic are powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The AMG GLB 35 boasts a high-performance version of this engine, delivering 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.
Standard Equipment Highlights: GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic
Even in its base configurations, the 2022 GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic offer a generous array of standard features, including:
- 18-inch wheels
- LED headlights and taillights
- Rain-sensing windshield wipers
- Heated side mirrors
- Aluminum roof rails
- Power liftgate
- Push-button start
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Simulated leather upholstery
- Power-adjustable front seats with memory
- Sliding and reclining rear seats
- Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system
- 7-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment displays
- Natural voice recognition
- Touch-sensitive steering wheel controls
- Touchpad controller
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Four USB-C ports
- Forward collision mitigation
- Blind-spot monitoring
AMG GLB 35: Enhanced Performance and Features
Building upon the GLB 250 4Matic, the AMG GLB 35 adds significant performance and feature upgrades:
- Enhanced 2.0-liter turbocharged engine (302 hp, 295 lb-ft of torque)
- AMG-tuned 4Matic all-wheel drive
- AMG-tuned eight-speed dual-clutch transmission
- AMG Dynamic Select driving modes
- AMG adaptive suspension
- AMG sport exhaust system
- Upgraded AMG braking system
- 19-inch AMG wheels
- Customizable ambient cabin lighting
- AMG sport steering wheel with aluminum shift paddles
- AMG sport front seats
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment displays
- Household-type power outlet
Optional Packages and Standalone Features
Mercedes-Benz offers several option packages and individual options to further customize the 2022 GLB-Class:
Premium Package:
- 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster and infotainment displays (standard on AMG GLB 35)
- Auto-dimming and power-folding exterior mirrors
- Hands-free keyless entry
- Hands-free liftgate
Multimedia Package:
- Navigation with augmented reality video overlay
- Speed limit assist
Driver Assistance Package:
- Adaptive cruise control
- Lane departure mitigation
- Lane keeping assist
- Blind-spot intervention
- Evasive steering assist
Parking Assistance Package:
- Surround-view camera system
- Automated parking system
Standalone Options:
- Adaptive sport suspension
- Panoramic sunroof
- Third-row seats
- Leather upholstery
- Heated and ventilated front seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Gesture control
- Burmester premium sound system
- Wireless charging pad
- Head-up display
Conclusion: Is the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Right for You?
The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class successfully blends luxury with practicality in a compact SUV package. Its spacious interior, advanced technology, and comfortable ride make it a compelling choice for individuals and families seeking a versatile and premium vehicle. While the base GLB 250 offers a solid foundation, the GLB 250 4Matic strikes an excellent balance of features and value, and the AMG GLB 35 delivers exhilarating performance for driving enthusiasts. Ultimately, the 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class stands out as a well-rounded and highly desirable option in the competitive small luxury SUV segment, particularly for those prioritizing space and utility alongside the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
