Rumors about a Mercedes GLB have been circulating
for years and a new report is suggesting the crossover will finally arrive in
2019. Reportedly codenamed the B24, Autobild says the model will be based on
the next-generation GLA but feature boxier styling, underbody protection, and
an increased ride height.
The model will reportedly measure 4.55 meters long which would make it around 122 mm longer than the
current GLA. The additional length may not sound like much but the report
claims the GLB will have one of the largest cargo compartments in its class.
Despite the rugged styling cues, the GLB will come
standard with front-wheel drive. However, the company is expected to offer an
optional off-road package which should beef up its all-terrain potential.
Under the hood, we can expect an assortment of
turbocharged four-cylinder engines producing up to 252 PS. There could
also be a couple of AMG variants with outputs of around 300 PS and 450
PS. Rumors also hint at a plug-in hybrid variant and an electric
version with around 400 km (248 miles) of range.
In related news, the publication says the company
might be considering a new GLG. The model would reportedly be an offshoot of
the next-generation GLE and feature boxy styling inspired by the G-Class. The
crossover hasn't been green-lighted but it would reportedly be a seven-seater
designed to battle the Range Rover Sport.
