Changes are coming to the Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class. The compact crossover is ready for a mid-cycle facelift, and a new set of spy photos captures the prototype up close and personal.
Previous spy shots have featured a test vehicle in motion, but this time our photographer captured the Mercedes in the parking lot. This is the clearest image we have so far, and while camouflage is still present on the front and rear clips, we can see body lines that weren’t visible before. The headlights appear to be the same size and shape as the current model, although the camouflage dressing makes them appear smaller. The internal elements will change slightly, giving it a new look.
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The grille also appears to be the same size, though the corners look more rounded. The small round drive lights are still in the corners of the lower fascia, but the details in the center could change a bit. There have been almost no changes at the rear, with minor changes to the taillights.
Unfortunately, our photographer is unable to take pictures of the interior. However, we can see the chrome trim on the rounded dash vents matching the current model, so we know no major changes have occurred inside. Another photo does show the cover in the middle of the dashboard, so even if major changes aren’t made, minor updates are likely. That could include changes to the GLB’s digital display, or new trim features.
We don’t expect any drastic powertrain changes to accompany the facelift. In North America, the GLB-Class currently uses a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 221 horsepower (165 kilowatts), driving the front wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is offered on the GLB 250 4Matic, and the AMG model increases power to 302 hp (225 kW). We’ve already seen glimpses of the future AMG GLB model in spy shots, so we know a hotter version will be back.
By the way, when will the updated GLB-Class debut? We first saw the prototype facelift in August 2022, so a reveal in the summer or fall of 2023 is a very safe bet. That would make the updated SUV a 2024 model year machine.
