2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB a Good SUV?

Yes, the 2023 GLB is a good luxury compact SUV. It boasts an upscale cabin, a long list of features, a comfortable ride and an available AMG model. Its boxy shape also helps make it a versatile option that can handle a variety of storage demands. A somewhat finicky infotainment system and cramped optional third-row seats are minor flaws, but they shouldn’t prevent you from buying this Mercedes.

Should I Buy the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB?

The GLB is a fantastic option for those looking for a luxury crossover vehicle. With two decent engine options, including a 302-horsepower AMG variant, this Mercedes combines a composed drive with luxury trimmings for a nice overall package. It also has a competitive price for the class. However, it might be worth checking out other SUVs in the class, such as the BMW X3 and Genesis GV70. Both offer luxe amenities and dynamic handling.

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2022 vs. 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB: What's the Difference?

There are no major differences between the 2022 and 2023 GLB models.

Compare the 2022 and 2023 GLB »

Here are the key changes for the Mercedes-Benz GLB over the last few years:

• 2023: no notable changes 
• 2022: no major changes
• 2021: Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 model debuted; blind-spot monitoring became standard
• 2020: brand-new model 

If you're considering an older model, be sure to read our 2020 GLB, 2021 GLB and 2022 GLB reviews to help make your decision. Also, check out our Best New Car Deals and Best New Car Lease Deals pages to learn about savings and discounts you can find on new vehicles.

Pricing

How Much is a 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB has a starting MSRP of $39,800, which is a competitive price for the class. Its features include synthetic leather upholstery and dual-zone automatic climate control. The top-tier AMG GLB 35 starts at $51,500 and adds a stronger turbocharged four-cylinder engine and all-wheel drive, among other upgrades.

Check out our U.S. News Best Price Program for great savings at your local Mercedes-Benz dealer. You can also find excellent manufacturer incentives on our Mercedes-Benz deals page.

Which Is the Best Mercedes-Benz GLB Model to Buy?

We recommend the entry-level GLB 250. The base turbo-four works with the smooth-shifting dual-clutch automatic transmission to provide reasonably quick acceleration. It includes niceties such as power-adjustable front seats, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, a 7-inch touch screen, a power liftgate, driver-attention monitoring and blind-spot monitoring in its standard list of features. The base trim also offers the best fuel economy of the lineup.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Versus the Competition

Mercedes-Benz GLB vs. Mercedes-Benz GLC

The Mercedes-Benz GLC is a luxury compact SUV that is similar in size and has many of the same features as the GLB. The GLC’s power options are significantly stronger, however, with available twin-turbo V6 and V8 engines. On the other hand, the GLB costs several thousand dollars less than the GLC in its base trim and is available with third-row seats. Both of these Mercedes are good options. Your choice will likely come down to your budget and preferences.

Compare the GLB and GLC »

Mercedes-Benz GLB vs. BMW X3

The BMW X3 is another high-ranking, well-rounded option worth considering. Both of these SUVs offer spacious and upscale cabins, peppy engines and user-friendly infotainment systems. However, the X3 steps ahead with sportier handling and a bit more space in the rear seats. The BMW costs about $6,000 more than the Mercedes in its base trim, but if you want a more engaging driving experience, the X3 is the better option.

Compare the GLB and X3 »

Compare the GLB, GLC and X3 »

GLB Interior: Exquisite and Comfortable

2023 GLB Interior Quality

The interior of the 2023 GLB is full of high-quality materials and exhibits luxury-level build quality. The cabin is comfortable, handsome and well-insulated from road and wind noise.

2023 GLB Infotainment, Bluetooth and Navigation

The GLB’s MBUX infotainment system works fairly well. The touch screen is responsive and has clear graphics, but the menu layout demands several swipes and clicks for simple tasks, which can be frustrating. The physical buttons and controls below the screen offer welcome assistance.

• Standard infotainment features: a 7-inch touch screen, HD Radio, Bluetooth, USB ports, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Available infotainment features: a 10.25-inch touch screen, navigation, wireless device charging, a 12-speaker Burmester sound system and satellite radio
• Additional standard features: a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power liftgate
• Other available features: a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, a household-style power outlet and a panoramic sunroof

For more information, read What Is Apple CarPlay? and What Is Android Auto?

2023 GLB Cargo Space

This Benz has 27 cubic feet of space behind its second-row seats, and it opens up to 62 cubic feet when folded. These are great figures for the luxury compact SUV class. If you opt for the third-row seats, cargo space is 5.1 cubic feet behind the third row, 24 cubic feet behind the second row and a maximum capacity of 56.7 cubes.

How Many People Does the 2023 GLB Seat?

The GLB seats five passengers in its base configuration or seven passengers with its optional third row, which is unique for the segment. The first two rows are well-cushioned and spacious, with plenty of head- and legroom, even for tall folks. The optional third row is really only spacious enough for children.

2023 GLB and Child Car Seats

There are two complete sets of LATCH connectors for the GLB’s second-row outboard seats and a tether anchor for the second-row middle seat.

Read more about interior »

GLB Performance: Comfort Is a Priority 

2023 GLB Engine

The base 2023 GLB 250 features a 221-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the AMG GLB 35 steps it up to a 302-horsepower turbo-four. These engines are both capable of fairly quick acceleration, but the AMG GLB 35 impresses with a claimed zero-to-60-mph time of just 5.1 seconds. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that provides mostly smooth and quick shifts, but it’s occasionally hesitant to shift at lower speeds.

2023 GLB Gas Mileage

Front-wheel-drive 2023 GLB models return 24 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while all-wheel-drive models return 22/30 mpg city/highway. These are good estimates for the class. The AMG GLB 35 returns 21/27 mpg.

2023 GLB Ride and Handling

This Mercedes offers a comfortable, well-balanced ride. It feels stable around turns, with minimal body lean. The steering is responsive, and the brakes offer ample stopping power. The ride even remains unbothered on bumpy roads.

Read more about performance »

Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliability

Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Reliable?

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB has a predicted reliability score of 73 out of 100. A J.D. Power predicted reliability score of 91-100 is considered the Best, 81-90 is Great, 70-80 is Average and 0-69 is Fair and considered below average.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Warranty

Mercedes-Benz covers the 2023 GLB with a four-year/50,000-mile limited warranty.

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2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Safety

2023 GLB Crash Test Results

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration gave the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB with all-wheel drive an overall safety rating of four out of five stars, while the front-wheel-drive model received a four-star overall rating. Both models received five stars in the side crash test and four stars in the frontal crash and rollover tests.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety has not crash tested the 2023 GLB.

2023 GLB Safety Features

Standard driver-assistance features:

• Rearview camera
• Blind-spot monitoring
• Vehicle exit warning (alerts exiting passengers of vehicles approaching from behind)
• Rear cross-traffic alert
• Forward collision warning
• Forward automatic emergency braking (active brake assist)
• Driver-attention monitoring

Available driver-assistance features:

• Adaptive cruise control
• Active blind-spot assist
• Lane-departure warning
• Lane-keep assist
• Lane-change assist 
• Evasive-steering assist (helps steer the vehicle to avoid collisions)
• Surround-view parking camera system
• Parallel and perpendicular park assist
• Traffic-sign recognition
• Speed limit assist
• Head-up display (shows pertinent driving and navigation information directly on the windshield)

2023 GLB Dimensions and Weight

The GLB 250 is 15.2 feet long, and the AMG 35 is 15.3 feet long. The GLB’s curb weight ranges from 3,638 to 3,869 pounds.

Where Is the 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Built?

Mercedes-Benz builds the 2023 GLB in Mexico.

2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB Models and Trims

The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB comes in two trims: GLB 250 and AMG 35. The 250 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that makes a claimed 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The AMG GLB 35 has a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four that makes a claimed 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. Both trims use an eight-speed automatic transmission.

Mercedes-Benz GLB 250

The entry-level GLB 250 has a starting MSRP of $39,800. It comes with front-wheel drive. The all-wheel-drive GLB 250 4Matic starts at $41,800. Adding third-row seats costs an additional $850.

Standard features include MB-Tex synthetic leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, a 7-inch touch screen, Bluetooth, USB ports, HD Radio, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, dual-zone automatic climate control and a power liftgate. Standard driver-assistance features include forward collision warning, forward automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, driver-attention monitoring, a rearview camera and blind-spot monitoring with vehicle exit warning.

Several packages are available. The Premium package ($1,750) adds a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster, a 10.25-inch touch screen and a household-style power outlet. The Multimedia package ($1,300) adds navigation, speed limit assist and traffic-sign recognition. The Driver Assistance package ($1,700) adds lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, active blind spot assist, evasive-steering assist and adaptive cruise control. The Parking Assistance package ($1,090) adds a surround-view parking camera system and parallel and perpendicular park assist.

Individual options include genuine leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, satellite radio, a 12-speaker Burmester stereo, wireless device charging, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, an adaptive suspension and 19- or 20-inch wheels.

Mercedes-Benz AMG 35

The AMG GLB 35 starts at $51,500. It boasts a 302-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive, 19-inch wheels and an AMG-specific grille and front bumper. The GLB 35 gains bolstered sport seats, a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and a 10.25-inch touch screen. Most options carry over unchanged.

Check out our U.S. News Best Price Program for great savings at your local Mercedes-Benz dealer. You can also find excellent manufacturer incentives on our Mercedes-Benz deals page.

See 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB specs and trims »

Why You Can Trust Our Reviews

U.S. News & World Report has been ranking the best cars, trucks and SUVs since 2007, and our staff has more than 75 years of combined experience in the auto industry.

This 2023 GLB-Class review combines 20 professional reviews with concrete data like performance specs, fuel economy estimates and safety ratings and incorporates applicable research for all models in this generation, which launched for 2020.

Check out excerpts from some of the reviews that drive our rankings and analysis.

• "Most small luxury SUVs are difficult to recommend. They’re usually too small, too chintzy and too unrefined for the prices they command. We’d normally recommend getting a well-equipped and more spacious non-luxury SUV instead. The 2023 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class is an exception. It’s distinctive, versatile and stylish in a way that its competitors are not. It may start north of $40,000, but it looks, feels and performs like it should cost that much. There’s actual value beyond that fancy three-pointed emblem, and we thoroughly recommend it as a result." -- Autoblog
• "The GLB-class’s boxier body makes it more practical than its GLA-class sibling, but the two are still equally compelling mini-Benzes." -- Car and Driver
• "The GLB-Class is affordable for what it is while continuing the tradition of excellent SUV/crossovers from Mercedes-Benz." -- Autotrader (2021)