Read about an all-new Mercedes SUV, styled like the G-class and based on the MFA2 architecture.
Mercedes-Benz had announced that it would expand its small vehicle offering to include up to eight models from the current five by 2020. The new GLB, which will be unveiled in the future is a part of this.
The GLB is clearly visually inspired by the futuristic version of the G-class, the Mercedes Ener-G Force concept SUV, which was displayed at the LA auto show in 2012.
Being built to take on the BMZ X1, the GLB will mostly be offered with five- and seven-seat layouts. The basis for this SUV and other new small models from Mercedes will be their new Modular Front-wheel-drive Architecture or MFA2 platform. The other models to use this will be the next-gen A-class hatch, A-class sedan, second-gen CLA sedan, CLA Shooting Brake, new B-class and the next-gen GLA SUV.
High-strength steel that makes for greater stiffness and lower weight will be used in this new platform. It will also provide front- and four-wheel-drive compatibility. It will also accommodate three- and four-cylinder engines with both manual and dual-clutch gearboxes. The 2018 A-class will also use a new nine-speed dual clutch transmission which will probably be used on the GLB as well.
The GLB will be a cheaper alternative to the legendary and more expensive G-Wagen. Its butch styling harks back to it while also featuring futuristic design cues. The GLB will slot above the GLA in the Mercedes line-up and should hit showrooms sometime in 2019.
