Mercedes Baby G-Wagon Caught Testing - Is There Still A Market For A Luxury Cute Ute?

Mercedes is readying its next all-new SUV, in the shape of a mini-G-Class. We'd already caught the standard model testing, but now the firm looks set to launch a hotter AMG GLB 35 version – with the same 302bhp 2.0-litre turbo as the A 35 hot hatchback.

Of course, the new Mercedes GLB will initially launch with the same range of petrol and diesel engines as the A-Class and B-Class, before turning up the heat with the GLB 35. Its squared-off body and bluff front end will likely mean it isn't quite as fast as the forthcoming A 35, but performance should be brisk nonetheless. Expect 0-62mph in less than six seconds, and an electronically limited top speed.

MDarringer - 11/21/2018 9:46:35 AM

+1 Boost

Why are we looking at a 10 year old prototype?

dumpsty - 11/21/2018 1:48:53 PM

+2 Boost

B/c the initial concept was pretty slick...especially the exterior proportions. It looks aggressive albeit a smaller CUV. And the concept of the GLB was done pre-SUV-craze. At that time, it didn't make sense - now it surely does. Kinda feels like the 4-dr multi-purpose vehicle craze with the PT Cruiser, HHR, Element, xB.

The newer smaller luxo utes have this corny, trying-too-hard, overly stylized feel....give me a GLB with 4Motion & a turbo-6cyl or AMG Sport trim....I'd be cool with that.

PUGPROUD - 11/21/2018 10:53:08 AM

0 Boost

Let no market slice be unfilled.

skytop - 11/21/2018 12:27:30 PM

+1 Boost

Viable market for Luxury Cute Utes? Ask owners of BMW X1, Jaguar F-Pace, Lincoln MKC, Lexus RX, Volvo XC60.

Vette71 - 11/21/2018 5:22:16 PM

+1 Boost

Agree, although not with all your listed examples. My wife will be in the market at about the time this thing hits. Size wise the new Audi Q3 hits the spot, buts it's a VW product. The height is better than the GLA, X1, X2 to see out of. The width is smaller than E or I Pace Jags, GLC, Volvo, XT4 so it's easier to park. Jeep Compass has good size but, but, but. Seeing dumpsty's comment above I showed her the pictures. She was an early purchaser of the PT Cruiser and loved that car. Of the GLB she said "I could see myself driving that". There's a machine for everyone!

cidflekken - 11/21/2018 12:36:57 PM

+2 Boost

Actually, this is a very viable slice of the market that Mercedes isn't occupying yet. This is where the X1, UX, and XT4 are currently residing. Their GLA is too space-constrained to be competitive, yet it still sells pretty well for itself. A more spacious SUV in this class at its lower price point would prove a solid player for them. This GLB would be to the GLA what the X1 is to the X2, at least that's how I'm seeing this play out.

wilfred - 11/21/2018 4:03:14 PM

+1 Boost

Just from a US pricing point of view, i see more opportunity in the $50-60k market. Which is a very comfortable price for a nice SUV. As I think the new GLE will be $60&up, especially the GLE450 will probably be pushing $80k with the active suspension and long list of options...

cidflekken - 11/21/2018 7:45:27 PM

+1 Boost

The GLC already falls in that range with options.