2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35

Set on filling every possible niche, Mercedes-Benz surprised the motoring industry when it introduced the GLB-Class, yet another compact SUV to fill the minor gap between the GLA and GLC-Class. Even more surprising was the advent of a performance derivative, known as the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic which moves into 2022 with only minor changes. The German SUV provides a rather rapid way of moving the family about and is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. The boxy compact crossover needs just 5.1 seconds to hit 60 mph.

Available as a five or seven-seater, Affalterbach's most sensible offering yet is somewhat of an oddity on the American vehicle market. It doesn't have direct rivals and hopes to encroach on territory dominated by the smaller AMG GLA 35, the Mini Cooper John Cooper Works Countryman, and even the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque HST. Perhaps not as athletic as some of the aforementioned options, the GLB strikes back with a plush interior that is blessed with plenty of occupant space - unless you're in the optional third row, that is.

With a base MSRP of $49,950, it is more expensive than most rivals, but this loftier price tag brings with it a larger cabin, the choice of seven seats (unlike similar rivals), and chunkier, Gelandewagen-aping style. Is this symphony of performance and practicality worth the $50,000-plus outlay? Let's find out.

The upright, boxy Benz wears its AMG embellishments rather well. The aggressive vertical bar AMG grille dominates the front end, helped by the AMG-specific front bumper with air intakes and black-painted trim. Moving along the side of the SUV, you'll find the standard 19-inch wheels (20- and 21-inch items are optional) are uplifted by black wheel arch garnish.

At the rear, two AMG tailpipes protrude from the subtle rear apron, while a standard spoiler takes pride of place on the rear liftgate. Aluminum roof rails add a classy touch and bring even more practicality to the package. LED head- and taillights are standard, although buyers can spring for Active LED lighting, as part of a $900 Exterior Lighting package. AMG badging aside, the GLB 35 is an unassuming SUV that presents as a miniature GLS 63.

If the GLB 35 is too subtle for your tastes, Mercedes-Benz offers the SUV with the AMG Night Package ($750) and Night Package Plus ($1,150). The former injects further menace with jet-black exterior accents, applied to items such as the roof rails and side-window trim. The latter builds on this with black badging and grille louvers. A panoramic sunroof is also available for an additional $1,500.

Despite the capacious innards, the compact dimensions of the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 mean it doesn't take up much space on the road. The SUV measures 183.1 inches long. Despite the ability to carry up to seven passengers, it's only a few inches longer than the GLA, which uses the same MFA2 platform.

It's wider than the Range Rover Evoque, at 79.5 in (side mirrors included), and stands 65.4 inches tall. The impressive interior space comes courtesy of the lengthy 111.4-inch wheelbase, which measures just a smidge longer than the larger Audi Q5. The GLB 35 tips the scales at 3,869 pounds. Not really intended to be an off-roader, a fully-loaded 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 has a maximum ground clearance of only 4.8 inches.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4Matic ushers in a new color option called Rose Gold metallic. The shade won't be to everyone's taste but, at $750, it will certainly help the GLB 35 stand out in a sea of crossovers. In typical Germanic fashion, there are as many as six demure white, grey, and black paint options.

Only Polar White and Night Black are no-cost options. Other than the new Rose Gold, metallic options include Digital White, Cosmos Black, Denim Blue, Iridium Silver, Galaxy Blue, and Mountain Grey and all carry a $750 charge.

Those wanting to inject some color into the GLB 35 are limited. Aside from Rose Gold and Galazu Blue, there is a vivid red tone called Patagonia Red metallic; the GLB's styling wears the rich crimson shade beautifully but, at $1,750, it sure is pricey.

The AMG GLB 35 is available with just one engine but, thankfully, it's a good one. The turbocharged 2.0L four-pot motor pulls strongly, as it should with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft. 0 to 60 mph is dispatched in just 5.1 seconds and while that isn't as fast as AMG's bigger-engined models, it's mighty fast for a small SUV. The top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. Interestingly, the smaller GLA 35 has similar performance figures. Still, the GLB isn't a straight-line special. Through the corners, the GLB won't be able to keep up with similarly powered hot hatchbacks. But, thanks to AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive, the GLB exhibits tenacious levels of cornering grip - it's quite a riot around a twisty mountain pass. Add the responsive 8-speed dual-clutch transmission into the mix, and you've got the makings of an entertaining family car.

While other small Mercs can be specified as '45' models, the GLB 35 AMG is only available with the less powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. But with 302 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, it's plenty fast. The standard eight-speed DCT gearbox is smooth enough and, when the situation allows, will help hurtle the AMG into the horizon with gusto. In regular, everyday driving, the GLB 35 exhibits your typical Mercedes-Benz traits - a refined and quiet ride with minimal aural intrusion.

In town, it's a capable cruiser and will happily trundle along with the inline-4 humming away to itself. Throttle response is good and not too sharp - this is a family car, after all. On the highway, the AMG shows more of its character, the turbocharged engine keen to demonstrate its vigor in overtaking maneuvers. The eight-speed dual-clutch 'box shifts down quickly, sending the GLB 35 past slower traffic with ease. At the higher end of the rev range, the 2.0-liter engine does feel a touch rough and, while it has a rorty exhaust note, it cannot live up to the V8 bellow of more expensive AMG models.

The GLB 35 boasts an independent MacPherson strut suspension setup in the front and a multi-link arrangement keeps everything under control at the rear. While it's more at home charging down a highway, the AMG doesn't cower away from a set of technical S-bends. In fact, it welcomes a dynamic challenge, utilizing its AMG-fettled AWD system to race through corners with surprising enthusiasm.

That being said, it's no match for a well-sorted hot hatch and, we must admit, the GLA 35 is better suited to spirited driving than the GLB. But then again, the GLA can't carry up to seven occupants or match the GLB for interior space. For what it is, the GLB is dynamically impressive. It's certainly helped by the standard AMG Ride Control Sport Suspension with three-stage damping.

In town and on rougher roads, the stiffer suspension setup isn't quite as smooth as we'd like; it can be unsettling and, at times, downright firm. It's not too bad when equipped with the standard 19-inch wheels, though. Stopping power is impressive. You can really push the braking limits of the GLB 35; they're responsive and offer plenty of feedback. Up front, you'll find 13.8-inch brake discs with four-piston fixed calipers while the rear disc utilizes 13-inch items with ventilation.

As with any AMG product, the driver can set the GLB up to their specific requirements. There are as many as four drive modes - Slippery, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ - to choose from and even the ESP is adjustable: On, Sport, or Off. Still, the only chink in the GLB's armor is the relatively lackluster steering. By no means is it devoid of steering feel, but it can't quite match the crispness of the Mini JCW Countryman ALL4 or, indeed, the X2 M35i.

Per the EPA, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35's gas mileage nearly matches its rivals. Rated at 20/27/22 mpg on city/highway/combined cycles, it's not the most economical four-cylinder. As such, it is beaten by the Mini JCW Countryman ALL4, which boasts a more impressive 23/30/26 mpg.

Still, with a 15.9-gallon gas tank, the GLB 35 should be able to travel up to 349.8 miles on a single tank. Mercedes-Benz recommends using premium unleaded gasoline for the turbocharged engine.

As with all modern Mercedes products, the AMG GLB 35 has been graced with a spectacular-looking cabin. It's modern and visually exciting, with plush materials and details to delight in. Everything appears to be well screwed together but some trim pieces betray the premium image - hard plastics have no place in a vehicle with a near-$50,000 price tag.

For 2022, the GLB 35 AMG interior remains unchanged save for the addition of a USB-C cable. The standard power-adjustable seats (with three-position memory) are comfortable, supportive, and look sporty regardless of whether you spring for the optional leather over the MB-Tex upholstery. In-car technology is superb; the GLB 35 ships standard with a 10.25-inch digital instrument display, while an equally large touchscreen takes care of the infotainment.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 AWD has seating for five occupants across two rows. However, those who require more seating will be pleased to know that, for $850, Mercedes will add a third row, making the small Merc a fully-fledged seven-seater. Do note that it's rather small - there's a mere 29.1 inches of legroom in the third row. As such, it's best suited to smaller children and will come in handy if you transport kids regularly. What can't be faulted is the impressive headroom afforded by the square shape. Those up front have 40.7 inches at their disposal, for example.

Legroom is similarly generous, with 41.1 and 38.1 inches up for grabs in the first and second row, respectively. Depending on your needs, the second row can also be adjusted fore and aft to provide better legroom or cargo space. Getting in and out is a hassle-free affair, particularly for second-row passengers. The GLB has remarkably long rear doors which makes it a boon to fit a car seat or enter the third row. The driving position also deserves praise; there's plenty of outward visibility.

In the USA, Mercedes-Benz offers the AMG GLB 35 with six upholstery choices and three trim finishers. Only two upholstery options are available at no cost: Neva Grey/Black MB-Tex and a sportier Black MB-Tex/microfiber combo with red stitching. For an extra $1,450, buyers unlock four additional choices - Black leather, ClassicRed/Black leather, Titanium Gray/Black leather, or Bahia Brown textured leather.

It's worth noting, however, that heated seats ($500) need to be specified to specify the plusher upholstery. As standard, the GLB 35 receives an attractive Carbon Structure trim, although Natural Grain Black Linden Wood or Brown Walnut Wood can be specified for an additional $325. Even the steering wheel can be customized. A Nappa leather-wrapped wheel is available for $400 or, for $600, you could have a grippier microfiber finish. If you want the best of both worlds (Nappa/microfiber combo), it will cost you $500.

In this segment, there aren't many similarly-sized SUVs that can match the GLB in terms of packing space. With the second row of seats in place, there's a sizeable 22 cubic feet of room in the trunk - considerably larger than the JCW Countryman ALL4's 17.6 cubes. With the second and third row folded flat, a simply cavernous 62 cubes of cargo space is up for grabs. What's more, loading heavy items into the rear of the GLB should prove fuss-free, courtesy of the flat floor and low loading sill. The 40/20/40 split-folding second-row enhances practicality further still.

First and foremost, the GLB 35 is a family car and, therefore, has to be able to cart all the stuff carried around by parents and children. There are several clever storage solutions dotted around the cabin. The glovebox isn't much to write home about, but the center console is decently sized and so too are the door bins. Sited just in front of the dual front cupholders is yet another storage bin. Those in the second and third row also receive their own cupholders, but occupants in the rear-most row have to make do without a folding center armrest.

As you would expect from a near-$50,000 performance SUV, the GLB 35 is packed full of standard features. Those up front are treated to power-adjustable sports seats with three-position memory, but the driver has to adjust the steering wheel manually. Courtesy of dual-zone climate control, occupants can be kept cool as they enjoy the visual drama afforded by the 64-color ambient lighting system.

Frivolities aside, practical-minded people will appreciate the push-button start and powered tailgate. Cruise control is included, too. Heated side mirrors are a welcome addition, especially for those in colder climates. A crisp, 10.25-inch digital driver's display also makes the cut. A panoramic sunroof is a nice-to-have, priced at $1,500.

Sadly, heated seats are a $500 optional extra ($950 with ventilation) - we feel this should be standard at this price point. Curiously, keyless entry is an equally expensive option. At least the Three-pointed star hasn't cut corners when it comes to safety equipment. The GLB 35 has blind spot assist, adaptive braking, crosswind assist, attention assist, and the mandatory backup camera. A $1,700 Driver Assistance Package offers active steering assist, evasive steering, adaptive cruise control, lane keep and lane change assist, and emergency braking, to name a few. A head-up display and a surround-view monitor are available, too.

Many consider the latest MBUX user interface to be one of the best infotainment systems out there and, while it's intuitive for the most part, it can bewilder someone unfamiliar with the system. This is mostly down to the myriad ways the system can be controlled, namely via the touchscreen (the easiest, in our opinion), touchpad, voice activation, and, lastly, steering wheel-mounted controls.

At least the infotainment system is feature-rich. The 10.25-inch center screen is crisp and ships standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and HD Radio. There are also as many as four USB-C ports. Unfortunately, onboard navigation (part of a $1,300 package) and the desirable 12-speaker Burmester Surround Sound system ($850) are added-cost options. You'll have to pay extra for wireless charging and a six-month Platinum Plan subscription to SiriusXM, too.

While J.D. Power doesn't have an AMG GLB 35 review, the 2022 GLB-Class scored a fairly middling overall consumer rating of 75/100. This is far better than the low score of 67/100 for quality and reliability. This is reflected in the seven recalls issued for the 2021 model year. The NHTSA notes that 2021 GLB 35 models have suffered from an array of ailments, some of which are worrying - a corrosive front axle carrier isn't what one expects from a performance SUV in this price bracket. Smaller issues, such as defective backup cameras and incorrectly installed spoilers.

At the time of writing, there were no recalls for the 2022 AMG GLB 35, but to allay the concerns of potential owners, Mercedes-Benz does offer the performance SUV with a comprehensive four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty. Scheduled maintenance is not offered, but is available through several optional maintenance packages.

The IIHS is yet to test the AMG GLB 35 or GLB-Class for safety, but the NHTSA's review of the GLB-Class shows the compact SUV to be rather safe. The authority awarded the all-wheel-drive derivative of the 2022 GLB-Class five stars but, curiously, the FWD variant receives just four stars. In all other tests, the GLB-Class scores four stars for frontal crash tests, four for rollover tests, and full marks in side crash evaluations.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 doesn't play around when it comes to standard safety features. The rapid family hauler boasts the usual equipment including ABS brakes, seven airbags (dual front, driver's knee, front and rear curtain, and side-impact), and ESP. Additionally, blind-spot assist (with vehicle exit monitoring) and crosswind assist are also standard, along with brake assist. Keeping an eye on the driver is the attention assist drowsiness detector.

If that's still not quite enough, Mercedes offers a host of safety upgrades, including active brake assist with cross-traffic functionality, lane-keep assistance, and second-row side-impact airbags. There's some truly clever technology to choose from; pre-safe sound ensures your hearing isn't affected by a collision. The system emits a specific noise before crashing that triggers a reaction in the eardrum, tuning out imminent loud noises. Other available safety features include a surround-view monitor and a head-up display.

There's no denying that the GLB 35 is an accomplished SUV. The question to answer is whether it's worth buying. You see, the GLB 35 is a very niche product; there aren't many people looking to spend $50,000 (before options) on a family hauler with hot hatch performance and handling. If you don't need all the space, something like the new Golf R provides better performance and a far smaller MSRP. If you just want a plush family hauler, the regular GLB 250 does an admirable job of carting the kids to and fro, albeit with a performance deficit. But what you lose in horsepower, you gain in value - the base model is far cheaper, at $38,600.

But, within its segment, the GLB 35 is the standout choice. It's far more spacious than the GLA 35 and JCW Countryman ALL4, only sacrificing a little bit of performance in the pursuit of practicality. It's got a punchy engine, a premium interior (not quite as plush as the Evoque HST), and plenty of high-tech features. However, the quality is perhaps not up to Mercedes standards and the number of recalls and the middling J.D. Power scores are concerning.

Still, there's no denying that the GLB 35 offers plenty of SUV for the money. It's quick, family-friendly looks fantastic, and brings driver involvement to an everyday package. We just can't shake the feeling that this performance model is a jack of all trades and a master of none. There are slight compromises (the harsh ride, for example) and it doesn't feel like a true AMG. It's a good car, though, and will appeal to a very specific client. If you're looking for something that can seat up to seven people and still bite chunks out of a Golf GTI's rear, the GLB 35 is the SUV for you.

The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 has an MSRP of $49,950. This excludes tax, registration, licensing, and incentives, as well as the $1,050 destination charge. A sub $50,000 price tag isn't too bad but, remember, this is a premium German vehicle - fully loaded, the AMG GLB 35's price can rise to as much as $72,845, including destination. But by practicing some restraint, a modestly specified GLB 35 will come in at around $60k.

The 2022 GLB 35 is a lone ranger in the Mercedes lineup. While other smaller offerings from the Three-pointed Star are available as the more powerful 45 derivatives, the GLB AMG soldiers into the new model year with just one powertrain choice and a single trim level.

AMG GLB 35 specs are a strong point: Courtesy of the muscular 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the GLB 35 AMG's horsepower is rated at an impressive 302-hp, while torque sits at 295 lb-ft. This is sent to all four wheels via the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission, resulting in a 5.1-second sprint to 60 mph.

The German automaker has packed the SUV full of standard features, which include LED lighting front and rear, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and dual displays, both measuring 10.25 inches in diameter. Mercedes-Benz provides standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, Bluetooth, and even HD Radio. Safety is taken care of by seven airbags, blind-spot assist, and many other clever features. Plenty of add-on options are available, ranging from the practical (optional third row) to the performance-oriented (AMG Drive Unit).

Mercedes-Benz has a long history of providing its vehicles with loads of packages and the GLB 35 AMG is no different. Some are very appealing, such as the Multimedia Package. At $1,300, it enhances the technological feel of the cabin, bringing navigation (with augmented reality) and speed limit assist.

Another must-have comes in the form of the $950 Premium Package. We'd begrudgingly tick this box, as it includes several features that should be standard on a $50,000 car, such as keyless-go and power-folding, auto-dimming side mirrors, among other things. However, your money is best spent on the $1,700 Driver Assistance Package. This heightens the level of safety on offer and includes Distronic cruise control, evasive steering assistance, active emergency braking as well as lane-keep, blind spot and lane change assist, along with several other handy features. For $1,090, buyers can also opt for a Parking Assistance Package, which supplants the regular backup camera with a surround-view system and Active Parking assist. Beware, though, some packages require the addition of others, which means you're in for more than what one package costs.

The GLB 35 is already an attractive car so, unless you love the blacked-out look, we'd recommend avoiding the AMG Night Package and Night Package Plus, at $750 and $1,150, respectively. Rather go for the Active Lighting Package where $900 buys you active LED headlights and adaptive high-beam assist.

As mentioned, there's only one model on offer. If it was our money, we'd venture down the sensible route and spec the GLB 35 modestly. The attractive, boxy shape pops in a brighter color, but the $1,750 Patagonia Red Metallic is pricey. Therefore, we'd go with the resale-friendly Cosmos Black Metallic, at $750.

For $850, the 20-inch twin five-spoke wheels strike a fine balance between ride comfort and style. Lastly, we'd select the $1,500 panoramic sunroof as it looks attractive and lets natural light shine into the cabin That pretty much rounds up our style enhancing options; the Night Packages and other options aren't worth the additional outlay.

The $850 third-row seating option and $500 heated front seats are a sensible addition. For some visual flair, we'd add the $400 Nappa leather AMG Performance steering wheel and the classy illuminated AMG door sills, for $350. The $1,450 Black upholstery is an expensive option but heightens the ambiance although it can't be had with third-row seating. There's no need to spring for the option wood inlays; the standard carbon structure suits the sporty attitude of the GLB.

Being a family hauler, it would make sense to load the GLB 35 with all the available safety features. As such, we'd go for the $1,700 Driver Assistance Package, which automatically adds the Premium and Multimedia Packages ($950 and $1,300, respectively) and Keyless-Go for $500, the $1,090 Parking Assistance Package, and the second-row side-impact airbags ($700). Lastly, we'd add the Burmester Surround Sound System at $850.

All in all, our ideal spec GLB 35 would total $62,790 including the destination charge. While pricey, this particular spec lends the perfect balance of style and practicality, with just enough options to keep it appealing when the time comes to sell.

The AMG GLB 35 truly is in a class of its own. Currently, no other automaker produces a high-performance, premium compact SUV with the option of seven seats. As such, the AMG GLB's closest rival comes in the form of the Mini Cooper John Cooper Works Countryman. Like the Mercedes, it has a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with more than 300 hp. The rapid Brit also funnels its power through an eight-speed gearbox, distributing its grunt through all four wheels.

The Mini outclasses the Benz on the blacktop, though. More torque (331 lb-ft) and a lighter body pay dividends when pressing on and the Mini is a joy to blast around in and exhibits superior handling and dynamism when compared to the Mercedes. Despite this sporting prowess, the ride is on par with the Mercedes. The Countryman is a lot cheaper too; the range kicks off at around $41,500.

The Benz manages to claw back some points when you compare their cabins and practicality. The playful interior of the Mini can't match the Merc's premium ambiance or interior space. What's more, the AMG feels more modern and offers better tech. The optional seven seats also lend an air of practicality that the Mini cannot match. Choosing between the two is tough but, if you have kids and need more space, go for the Mercedes - it's a no-brainer. But, if you favor performance and character, the Mini will serve you best.

On paper, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 and the Land Rover Range Rover Evoque HST are closely matched. Both produce 295 lb-ft of torque and are closely matched on horsepower (the Range Rover has six fewer ponies under the hood). Again, the Range Rover has an equally sized 2.0-liter gas engine but, unlike the Mercedes, the Evoque HST boasts clever mild-hybrid trickery.

In reality, the two appeal to very different people. The admittedly better-looking Evoque HST has a more luxurious interior and the price tag reflects that with a base MSRP of $57,000. You certainly get what you pay for; the cabin is beautifully crafted and wouldn't be out of place in a far more expensive car. That being said, it's not quite as spacious as the AMG and there's no option for a third row of seats.

Still, it's quite the performer. Land Rover claims a 60 mph sprint time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 150 mph. This is no match for the AMG GLB 35 (0-60 time of 5.1 seconds and 155 mph top speed) but the Evoque HST strikes back with better refinement and a vastly superior ride. In terms of image, there's nothing between the two - yes, an AMG will tell the neighbors you're doing well but a Range Rover is the ultimate status symbol in the 'burbs. If you need to take six kids to school in a hurry, go for the Mercedes-AMG. For everything else, the delightful mannerisms of the Evoque will fit the bill nicely.