2026 Mercedes-AMG GLB
MSRP: $60,600
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Overview
The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLB is a subcompact luxury performance SUV that occupies a unique niche in the market as a family-oriented car with up to three seating rows and 5+2 seating, despite its compact footprint, and with a generous helping of AMG verve added. This comes from the 302-horsepower/295-lb-ft turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine, 8-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch auto, and AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive - good enough for a 5.4-second run to 60 mph.
Despite its sporty bent, it's also eminently sensible, with 48-volt mild-hybrid assist making 23 mpg combined possible, and a very roomy cabin for five and their luggage (up to seven at a pinch). As such, it's suited to people who want a practical and family-friendly subcompact package with AMG performance and badge appeal.
What's New for 2026
The 2026 AMG GLB is the last model year of the first generation of the SUV, and the second generation takes over next year. As such, the 2025 car carries over completely unchanged, except for a newly available AMG Design Package Plus that comes with Alpine Grey paint, blacked-out exterior trim, and matte-black 10-spoke 19-inch wheels. The 2026 Mercedes-AMG GLB's price increases by $1,650 to just over $60K.
Exterior
The AMG GLB's boxy lines have become familiar in the course of this generation's availability, with its form factor optimized to maximize cabin space and that distinctive upkick in the rear beltline. AMG touches include a Panamericana-style grille, more aggressive fascias, a rear diffuser, and dual exhausts. All-LED lighting is complemented by 19-inch AMG alloys, which can be upspecced to 20s or 21s. The 183.1-inch body is almost three inches shorter than the GLC, but taller.
Interior
The dual 10.25-inch dashboard displays (a digital gauge cluster and an MBUX touchscreen) come with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice control, biometric authentication, a wireless charging pad, four USB ports, and a 12-speaker Burmester audio system, while Wi-Fi, navigation, and a head-up display are optional.
Comfort-wise, you get MB-Tex leatherette/microfiber upholstery, heated power front sports seats with memory, 64-color adjustable ambient lighting, and dual-zone climate control, while the third seating row, leather upholstery, and a heated steering wheel are optional. The third row is only inhabitable by small kids with its 29.1 inches of legroom and 34.8 inches of headroom, but the second row is spacious.
Price Range and Best Value Trim
The AMG GLB 35 is offered as a single fully equipped trim. All prices exclude destination.
Trim Level | Trim Name | Price |
Base/top/best trim | AMG GLB 35 4MATIC | $60,600 |
Key Specs
Powertrain
Engine | HP | Torque | Drive | 0-60 | Transmission |
2.0L I-4 Turbo + 48V Hybrid | 302 hp | 295 lb-ft | AMG 4MATIC AWD | 5.4 sec | 8-speed DCT |
Fuel Economy (MPG)
Config | City | Highway | Combined | Range |
AMG GLB 35 4MATIC | 21 | 27 | 23 | 366 mi |
Fuel: Premium unleaded
Cargo behind row 1 / 2 / 3: 62.0 / 22.0 / 12.4 cu-ft
Curb weight: ~3,869 lbs
Seating: 5 (7 optional)
Drag coefficient: 0.35
Warranty
Coverage | Term |
Basic Vehicle | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Powertrain | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Complimentary Maintenance | Not included |
Roadside Assistance | 4 years / 50,000 miles |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 302 hp and 5.4-second 0-60 deliver genuine performance in a family-friendly package
- Available third-row seating is unique among AMG SUVs and rare in this price class
- 62.0 cubic feet of maximum cargo space exceeds most rivals including the larger GLC
- Standard AMG 4MATIC AWD with variable torque distribution
- Boxy design and low liftover height make loading gear effortless
Cons:
- $60,600 starting price places it near the larger, more powerful AMG GLC 43
- Interior materials feel less premium than larger Mercedes models
- Ride quality firms up noticeably with optional larger wheels
- Third-row space is too tight for adults or longer journeys
- Heated front seats are a $500 option rather than standard
Verdict
The AMG GLB 35 occupies a unique niche in the market, and by its nature, will attract a limited number of buyers. These buyers are looking for a subcompact luxury SUV with occasional third-row seating and AMG performance and handling. The boxy body makes the most of the footprint to create a roomy cabin, up to 62 cu-ft of luggage volume, and a distinctive profile. It may sound like a strange combination, but it turns the GLB 35 into a very practical little family hauler that's also quick and great fun to drive, with a 5.4-second sprint to 60 mph, a sporty transmission, and AWD.
On the other hand, the tall body and 0.35 drag coefficient limit highway economy to 27 mpg, the ride is overly firm on the larger wheel choices, and the car is now in its last model year, which means it will have been replaced by a redesigned model this time next year. It's also priced deep into GLC territory; the 416-hp AMG GLC 43 costs only $8K more. However, it's still a uniquely practical and sporty small family SUV, and you may get great deals on run-out stock.
Competitors
- Mercedes-AMG GLA
- BMW X1 M35i
- Mini Cooper Countryman JCW
- Alfa Romeo Tonale
- Lexus NX
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This story was originally published May 23, 2026 at 6:27 AM.