Spy photographers have snapped the 2021
Mercedes-AMG GLB 45 on numerous occasions, but the model has, according to
Automobile, been given an early unveiling by the U.S. Patent and Trademark
Office. The high-performance crossover will
follow in the footsteps of the GLA 45 and feature an aggressive front fascia
with a Panamericana grille and large air intakes.
Out back, there’s a sportier rear end with
a diffuser that is flanked by a four-tailpipe exhaust system. The latter helps
to distinguish the model from the GLB 35, which has a more traditional dual
exhaust. While the styling changes aren’t very dramatic, more important updates
occur in the engine compartment, where, like in the GLA 45, as well as the A 45
and CLA 45, we’ll find an AMG-tuned turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.
In
base guise, it will put out 382 hp and 480 Nm of
torque and be mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission which sends
power to a performance-oriented all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring.
This should enable the GLB 45 to accelerate from 0-100 km/h in
around 4.5 seconds before hitting an electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
Buyers looking for more power can expect
an S variant, which packs an upgraded engine developing 415 hp and 500 Nm of torque. Thanks to the extra power, the dash to 100 km/h should come a tenth of a second quicker while the top speed
climbs to 270 km/h.
We can also expect a host of other
upgrades including a sport-tuned suspension with an adaptive damping system, as
well as a high-performance braking system with perforated discs that measure
13.8 inches (350 mm) at the front and 13 inches (330 mm) at the rear. There’s
no word on when the GLB 45 will be unveiled, but a debut could be just around
the corner.
