You could feel the shift coming. Mercedes has been steadily modernizing its compact lineup, but the next-gen GLB—set for its global reveal on December 8, 2025—is shaping up to be something else entirely. With the brand now releasing interior photos ahead of the debut, there’s enough to unpack, and trust me, this doesn’t look like a minor facelift. It looks like Mercedes wants the GLB to punch way above its class.
Reveal: A Cabin That Leaps a Generation
The exterior stays hidden for now, wrapped in camouflage and secrecy, but the inside? That’s where Mercedes is already flexing. The moment you look at the new dashboard, you instantly understand why they wanted to show this early.
The MBUX Superscreen dominates the cabin—three displays fused together under one sweeping glass panel stretching from the driver’s side to the passenger door. This is the kind of tech-heavy interior you’d expect in a flagship, not a compact SUV.
Everything looks cleaner, wider, almost spaceship-like. Buttons? Mostly gone. Clutter? None. You’re looking at a very clear message from Mercedes: the GLB isn’t the “entry-level family Benz” anymore—it’s a tech showcase.
Layout: Built for Families, Road Trips, and Daily Chaos
The design team has reworked the interior layout almost entirely, and the results are impressive:
- Floating floor console that frees up legroom and gives the cabin a more airy feel.
- Low-set air vents to maintain that sleek, horizontal dash flow.
- Split-folding second-row bench as standard.
- Optional third-row seating that folds flat into the floor when not needed.
This is where the GLB stretches its advantage over siblings like the GLA or CLA. It’s not just stylish—it’s deliberately practical, clearly aimed at families who refuse to compromise on space or luxury.
Highlights: A New Kind of Panorama
One of the standout upgrades—and arguably the biggest attention-grabber—is the panoramic roof setup. While many cars in the segment offer it, Mercedes has dialed up the drama.
Two premium option packs will be available:
| Panoramic Roof Option | Feature |
|---|---|
| Electrochromic | Switches from clear to opaque with a tap |
| Illuminated Variant | Backlit with Mercedes-Benz logos for a glowing effect |
It’s bold. It’s extra. And it’s very Mercedes.
Seating: A True 7-Seater Experience (If You Want It)
The old GLB already had a third-row option, but this time Mercedes is doubling down on flexibility.
- The seven-seat version gets sliding and reclining second-row seats, making access to the third row easier.
- Even the five-seat variant can be optioned with the sliding second row, which is rare in this segment.
For buyers who have kids, carpool often, or simply want the occasional extra seats, the GLB stands out from typical compact luxury SUVs.
Powertrain Options: ICE, Hybrid, and All-Electric
Mercedes hasn’t released the final engine list yet, but all signs point to the GLB sharing its powertrain range with the next-gen CLA family.
Here’s what’s expected:
| Variant | Specs (Expected) |
|---|---|
| Petrol Hybrid | 1.5L turbo-petrol + 8-speed DCT |
| High-Performance Trim | Up to 349 hp |
| Electric (EV) | 85 kWh battery with single or dual motors |
This lineup makes the GLB one of the most diverse compact SUVs globally—offering everything from efficiency-focused hybrids to a serious EV option.
And if Mercedes decides to bring the electric GLB to India, it’ll sit right in the sweet spot between practicality and future-readiness.
India: A Possible Return in 2026
The first-gen GLB launched in India in late 2022 but was pulled off shelves by April 2025 due to shifting supply priorities. However, Mercedes sees strong potential for the updated model—especially given the growing appetite for premium seven-seaters in urban India.
There’s a solid chance the GLB will return to India in 2026, possibly with both ICE and EV variants. The flexibility, the tech, and the family-friendly design all line up well with Indian buyer preferences.
Final Verdict
Mercedes isn’t treating the GLB as a small SUV anymore. With its redesigned cabin, modern seating configuration, panoramic roof innovations, and a powertrain mix that ranges from hybrid to all-electric, the next-gen GLB looks fully prepared to take on a far more competitive landscape.
If the exterior is even half as bold as the interior, expect this SUV to make serious ripples globally—and potentially dominate the compact luxury space in India when it returns.
FAQs
When will the new Mercedes GLB debut?
Globally on December 8, 2025.
Does the new GLB have a third-row seat?
Yes, a third row is offered as an option.
What is the MBUX Superscreen?
A full-width dashboard panel featuring three integrated digital displays.
Will the GLB offer an electric version?
Yes, an EV variant with an 85 kWh battery is expected.
Is the panoramic roof standard?
Yes, it’s standard across all trims, with optional advanced versions.
