Mercedes-Benz AMG GLB Review

The competition in the C-Class luxury performance SUV market has become increasingly fierce in recent years. Many family users want the practicality of an SUV without compromising driving pleasure. The 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC is aimed precisely at meeting this demand. As a facelift model, it adds a 48V mild hybrid system and has targeted configuration adjustments. In this test drive, we focus on evaluating whether its power delivery is smoother, whether its daily practicality meets expectations, and whether it retains AMG's signature handling dynamics.

From the exterior perspective, the 2024 GLB 35 continues the family-style robust profile, and the square body lines maintain the imposing feel of the SUV. The AMG vertical grille on the front, paired with the large lower air intakes, gives it high recognition; the air vents on both sides of the front bumper use black plastic materials to enhance the sporty atmosphere. From the side of the car, the 20-inch multi-spoke alloy wheels paired with 255/40 R20 tires give a full visual effect, while the slightly muscular lines on the wheel arches add a subtle touch of strength. At the rear, the AMG rear spoiler, dual round exhaust outlets on either side, and the smoked LED taillights all echo its performance identity in the details. The overall design is not overly aggressive, matching AMG's sporty positioning without being too flamboyant, making it appropriate for daily commuting.

Stepping inside, the sense of luxury and technology in the interior is immediately apparent. The dashboard combines soft-touch materials with metal trims, offering a refined tactile experience; the 10.25-inch fully digital instrument cluster and the 10.25-inch MBUX central touchscreen are seamlessly connected, providing smooth interfaces that support Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The multifunctional steering wheel features an AMG-exclusive logo, with the left side controlling multimedia and driver assistance systems, and the right side adjusting the instrument display content. The buttons offer clear feedback, and the standard metal paddle shifters provide a robust feel. The front seats feature electric adjustment with memory functionality, and their leather-wrapped structure offers excellent support. The lumbar and thigh support are adequate to ensure proper hold during spirited driving. The rear seats can be folded 40:20:40, making the trunk space expandable and flexible, suitable for daily storage of strollers or suitcases. The rear row also includes independent air conditioning vents and USB ports, ensuring passenger comfort.

In terms of power, the 2024 GLB 35 is equipped with a 2.0T turbocharged engine paired with a 48V mild hybrid system, delivering a combined maximum output of 225kW (302PS) and a peak torque of 400N·m. It is mated to an 8-speed DCT transmission and 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The official 0-100 km/h acceleration time is 5.5 seconds, 0.3 seconds slower than the previous model. However, during actual driving, the addition of the mild hybrid system makes starting smoother, and the jerky sensation of engine engagement during low-speed crawling is almost eliminated. In Sport mode, throttle response becomes very sensitive; the turbo kicks in quickly with a deep press on the accelerator, and mid-to-late acceleration remains confident. Overtaking is easily accomplished with a slight press of the gas pedal. For daily use, the Eco mode is sufficient, delivering linear power output suitable for city commuting.

In terms of handling, the GLB 35's chassis is tuned on the firmer side, consistent with AMG's character. The front MacPherson strut and rear multi-link independent suspension provide excellent support during cornering, with body roll well-controlled. The steering is precise with minimal dead zones, and the effort required to turn the wheel increases progressively as speed increases, inspiring confidence in the driver. When encountering speed bumps or uneven roads in the city, the suspension quickly absorbs the bumps, though rear passengers may experience slight bouncing. However, this level of comfort is acceptable for a performance SUV. The all-wheel-drive system remains stable on slippery roads, ensuring no wheel spin during starts and providing good torque distribution to improve grip at high-speed corners.

In terms of fuel consumption, we drove 50 kilometers each on congested urban roads and highways, with an average fuel consumption of approximately 8.2L/100km, slightly higher than the 7.5L of the old model. However, considering the improved smoothness brought by the mild hybrid system, this fuel consumption performance meets expectations. Noise control is done well – within a speed of 100km/h, wind and tire noise are not obvious. At higher speeds, wind noise increases slightly but does not affect conversations inside the car. The Burmester sound system delivers clear audio quality, effectively masking background noise.

Compared to the 2022 model, the 2024 GLB 35, despite slightly reduced power parameters, offers a smoother driving experience thanks to the mild hybrid system. Additionally, the configuration has been upgraded with the inclusion of ACC adaptive cruise control, enhancing safety; however, the HUD head-up display and third-row seat options have been removed. Compared with the BMW X2 M35i in the same class, the GLB 35 offers more space, a more comfortable rear seat experience, and richer configurations; meanwhile, the X2 M35i has slightly stronger acceleration performance.

Overall, the core advantage of the 2024 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC lies in its "balance" – it combines AMG’s sporty handling with the practical space of an SUV. The addition of the mild hybrid system ensures smoother daily commuting. It is suitable for families in their 30s and 40s who need to care for their family members' comfort while occasionally wanting to enjoy some driving pleasure. It is also ideal for consumers who pursue the prestige of luxury brands and don’t want to choose between space and performance. If you're looking for a luxurious and high-performance SUV that balances family and fun, this car is worth considering.