Mercedes is in the middle of rethinking its electric lineup, and the new Mercedes GLB 250+ is a great example of that shift. Previously known as the EQB, the Germans have now pulled both the design and naming back toward the more traditional GLB universe. We spent an hour behind the wheel — and here are our first impressions.ù
Still the boxy family favorite with the option of seven seats
The design is exactly as many will remember it. The GLB sticks to its square, practical shape, which feels more like an MPV than a traditional SUV — and that’s actually a big advantage. As a family car, it works extremely well. Getting in and out is easy, and visibility from the driver’s seat is excellent.
Our test car was a five-seater, although the model is also available with seven seats — a rarity in this segment that gives the GLB a genuine edge over most competitors.
The tested version features an 86 kWh battery producing 272 hp, sending power to the rear wheels. A GLB 350+ is also available for those who want all-wheel drive, delivering 350 hp from the same battery size.
According to Mercedes, the test car can travel up to 632 km on a full charge and supports DC fast charging at up to 320 kW — seriously impressive numbers. A petrol hybrid will also join the lineu. There is also a GLB 200 with a smaller 58 kWh battery, though we expect the 250+ to be the most popular choice.
GLB Offers Impressive Cabin Space
Our test car came equipped with what Mercedes calls the MBUX Superscreen — a system we have also seen in other newer models. It creates a highly digital and premium cockpit experience. You do not just get one or two screens: there are three. One behind the steering wheel, a large central display, and a dedicated screen for the front passenger.
Most functions, including climate controls, are operated via the touchscreens rather than physical buttons. This gives a clean, modern look but does require some getting used to.
Space for the Whole Family
In the rear, space is good for children, while adults will notice a few compromises. The battery pack raises the floor slightly, which affects seating comfort and thigh support. That said, it is still perfectly possible for adults to sit comfortably on longer journeys without feeling overly fatigued.
Up front, you sit high and comfortably with a clear and commanding driving position. Visibility is also very good, making the car easy to manoeuvre. The boot offers 540 litres of space, or 500 litres in the seven-seat version. Fold the seats down, and capacity increases to up to 1,715 litres.
On the road, the GLB impresses positively. The suspension is comfortable and absorbs bumps well. It does not feel stiff or unsettled — on the contrary, it is a relaxing car to drive. At the same time, it surprises by not feeling heavy or clumsy.
It holds its own well in corners and leans less than you might expect from a tall family SUV. There is even a hint of sportiness that makes it more engaging behind the wheel. Although our time with the car was limited, we can already conclude that the GLB drives very well, put simply.
Competitors
The GLB 250+ enters an interesting segment, where its most obvious rivals are the Tesla Model Y (with seven seats) and the more affordable Peugeot e-5008. Tesla, in particular, is putting strong pressure on this class.
Our first impression is clear: the Mercedes GLB 250+ has the potential to become a strong player in Denmark and Scandinavia. It is also easy to imagine it as a popular choice for taxi services. We hope to spend more time with it soon to explore the new GLB in greater depth.
