Mercedes continues the development of the
high-performance AMG GLB 35 compact SUV, with testing now taking place in much
colder climates. The rugged and more practical sibling of the upcoming Mercedes GLA is
getting dialed in with plenty of AMG goodies, including the turbocharged
2.0-liter four-cylinder powertrain that debuted in the A35, kicking out 301 hp and 400 Nm of torque.
Power will go to all four wheels via a seven-speed
dual-clutch transmission, with the all-wheel drive system being a revised
version of that in the previous A45 AMG. A model-specific adaptive suspension
and a range of chassis reinforcements will make sure the 2020 AMG GLB 35 offers
more agility and sharper responses.
The exterior of the faster GLB will feature a full
AMG costume that includes model-specific bumpers -with bigger air intakes at
the front-, an AMG front grille, fatter side sills, bigger wheels and dual
exhaust tips coming out the rear.
We’ve seen the interior in
previous scoops, and it looks pretty much the same with the A-Class hatchback. The compact
Mercedes has been universally praised for its high-tech ambience inside, with
highlights to include a minimalist design and Mercedes’ fresh MBUX infotainment
system that employs two big digital displays.
We still don’t know if Mercedes will give the GLB
the full AMG 45 treatment, which is expected to debut with the A-Class
hatchback this year offering over 400hp and a new ‘drift-mode’. Mercedes is expected to reveal
the all-new GLB this summer, with the AMG 35 version to follow shortly after.
Cr. Carscoops
