The Tough-Truck Mercedes-Benz Concept GLB Treks to the Shanghai Auto Show

The Concept GLB's exterior borrows the 2020 GLC's facelifted design—which debuted at this year’s Geneva Motor Show—with some key modifications to suit expeditionary endeavors. Large, BFGoodrich All-Terrain TKO tires are outfitted underneath the enlarged fender flares. A set of underbody guards with integrated air inlets to “emphasize the off-road qualities" add further off-road protection. There's a shrouded roof rack with an integrated LED lighting package that doubles as an “orientation aid" for off-road driving, according to the press release. Mercedes-Benz finished it off with a weather-sealed roof-box. 

Inside is typical Mercedes-Benz quality as the Concept GLB sees three rows of plush seating, though the third row is only suitable for small children. The interior is well-appointed in “Open-Pore Walnut” finishes and a warm, brown leather treatment, plus small orange accents on the trim to provide a pop of color. The switchgear is done in brushed aluminum, and the third and second row both fold flat for added utility.

Under the Concept GLB’s hood is a turbocharged four-cylinder engine making 224 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. It's linked to Mercedes-Benz’s 8-speed dual-clutch transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The Concept GLB further receives three drive settings, including Eco/Comfort, Sport, and Off-Road, the latter of which “acts as an inter-axle differential lock” and holds the front-to-back power distribution at 50-50.

Though the Concept GLB’s future is undecided, the market’s demand for crossovers of all shapes, sizes, and capabilities likely heralds this particular Benz's production—though maybe not with those tires.