2026 Mercedes GLB spy shots will offer less boxy look

The most practical member of Mercedes’ compact lineup is expected to come with more tech, a better EV version and slightly curvier looks

Mercedes is reportedly testing a new-generation GLB in Europe, which is expected to debut in 2026. The SUV will retain some of its boxy shape, ride on a new MMA architecture, and offer a wider choice of mild-hybrid and electric vehicle powertrains.

The German brand may have decided to discontinue the A-Class and B-Class at the end of their current life cycles, but its future compact lineup will include new CLA sedans and shooting brake models, as well as new GLA and GLB SUVs.

More: Mercedes details two electric and three hybrid powertrains for new CLA

While we’re pretty familiar with the upcoming CLA, the automaker has only shown a teaser of the mechanically relevant SUV and kept its design under wraps. Thankfully, our spy photographers captured a camouflaged prototype of the GLB outside the automaker’s factory, giving us a first look at what’s to come.

The body is completely covered in camouflage, but the proportions strongly suggest we’re looking at a successor to the three-row GLB, rather than the hatchback GLA. The SUV’s design appears to be sleeker than its predecessor, incorporating Mercedes’ new styling language.

The front end features slimmer LED lights flanked by a large grille that appears to be mounted beneath the front bumper. Both the greenhouse and the upright tail have been slightly tweaked. The latter is disguised with fake taillight stickers, similar to those on the discontinued Smart Fortwo.

new foundation

Mercedes’ entire future compact lineup will use the new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, which is compatible with ICE and EV powertrains. We already know most of the options for the upcoming CLA, which will likely find their way under the hood of the GLB.

The all-electric model that will eventually replace the EQB will offer a choice between a 268 hp (200 kW / 272 PS) rear electric motor or a 375 hp (280 kW / 380 PS) dual-motor setup. The electric car will likely come with 58 kWh and 85 kWh battery packs, but its range will be shorter than the 750 kilometers (466 miles) expected for the more aerodynamic CLA.

The ICE power range will include a mild-hybrid 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine and a small electric motor within an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The internal combustion engine is expected to offer different outputs, rated at 134 hp (136 PS), 161 hp (163 PS) and 188 hp (190 PS), with an additional 27 hp (20 kW) from the electric motor.

Like the current generation, the combustion engine-powered SUV will be available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive. Finally, AMG may launch a performance-focused version in the future, most likely with hybrid power.

We expect to learn more about the future GLB and GLA when Mercedes fully launches the closely related CLA next year.

SH professionals