Mercedes reportedly working on smaller version of the G-Class named the GLB.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has spanned of 35 years – one of the brand’s stalwarts still styled close to the original. Its history draws back from the days when it was initially developed as a military vehicle from a suggestion by the Shah of Iran (at the time a significant Mercedes shareholder) to Mercedes.
Now a report from Germany suggests that the folks in Stuttgart have approved the development of a small crossover inspired by the iconic G-Class SUV.
Likely to carry the name GLB, the crossover will fall between the GLA and the GLC. If the model ever reaches production, it will ride on the same modular front-wheel drive platform as the next-generation of the A-Class and the CLA.
Covering all applications, Mercedes will offer a five-seater model with a standard wheelbase and a seven-seater model with a longer wheelbase.
Mechanically, the GLB will rely on new turbocharged four-cylinder engines tuned to provide anywhere between 119kW and 141kW. Front-wheel drive is likely to be the car’s default setup and should you want all four wheels to get to work, you’ll need to dig deeper into your pockets for the 4Matic all-wheel drive system.
An AMG-tuned model powered by a 2.0-liter turbo four will round out the line-up. Likely called GLB 45, it will offer 298kW, all-wheel drive and a quick-shifting dual-clutch transmission.
If the report is accurate, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is scheduled to go on sale in 2019. The Stuttgart-based company hasn’t commented on the rumours, so only time will tell whether the G will get a smaller sibling.
