Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class spotted testing for the first time

Mercedes-Benz is preparing to launch a new SUV in its portfolio, named the GLB-Class. This new Mercedes SUV was spotted testing recently under thick camouflage. Once launched, the GLB will be slotted between the GLA and the GLC. This will be the German automaker's eighth product in the SUV segment.

Mercedes has been testing the GLB-Class for quite some time now, but till now it was disguised under a test mule of the GLA -Class. This is the first time that a prototype of the upcoming GLB-Class has been spotted testing. While it might appear to be similar to the GLE-Class, this new Mercedes-Benz SUV is a lot smaller in size.

The GLB will be based on the MFA2 platform, and will be given a more off-road-inclined design, especially in comparison to the fashionable profile of the GLA. It will also be the first Mercedes car to underpin the new MFA2 platform, which is a revised iteration of the MFA (Modular Front wheel drive Architecture) platform.

The Mercedes-Benz GLB SUV will be powered by a range of four-cylinder petrol and diesel units, having a capacity of around 2.0-litre. Other details regarding the powertrain are still under wraps.

The Mercedes GLB will likely make its global debut at the end of 2017, with deliveries starting from 2018. It will compete against the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Range Rover Evoque.

Source: AutoEvolution