Skip advert
Advertisement

New 2023 Mercedes GLB facelift breaks cover

The seven-seat Mercedes GLB SUV picks up mild-hybrid tech and fresh styling

Mercedes has given its family-focused compact SUV an update for 2023, introducing new styling elements, mild-hybrid assistance for certain powertrains and updated user interfaces in the interior. The facelift coincides with further updates to its smaller GLA sibling, as well as the A-Class and B-Class that was revealed late last year.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Changes to the exterior design include a new front bumper, with AMG Line models (the only available in the UK) featuring larger faux-openings with body-coloured inserts. The full LED lights are new both front and rear, and come with fresh lighting signatures that correlate more closely with other recently updated models. GLBs are also now available with a Night Package, replacing all the chrome detailing with black replacements on the nose, tail, window surrounds and roof rails. There are also four new wheel designs, available in sizes ranging from 17 to 20 inches, as well a new Spectral Blue colour option.

Inside, Mercedes has updated the twin-screen user interface to run its latest MBUX operating system, with a now standard-fit 10.25-inch touchscreen interface paired with either a 7- or optional 10.25-inch driver information display. Interior colour and trim options are also now, and the steering wheel has been replaced with Merc’s latest design with its touch-sensitive controls. 

Under the skin, the GLB retains its existing petrol and diesel engine options, with four of each available in European markets. All petrol units now incorporate a new 48V mild-hybrid system, running a belt-driven starter/generator that helps reduce parasitic losses from the petrol engine as well as adding up to 10kW to the driveline under acceleration. The mild-hybrid system also extends the GLB’s start-stop function and allows for engine-off coasting under light loads. 

Specific engine options in the UK have yet to be confirmed, but it should mirror the current range with two petrol (GLB200 and GLB220) and two diesel (GLB200d and GLB220d) options – the higher-powered of both incorporating all-wheel drive. All non-AMG GLB engine units feature a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. There will also be a new AMG GLB35, which will adopt the MHEV system. 

Existing UK prices for the current GLB range between £39,745 for the GLB200 and top out at £48,415 for the GLB220d in its highest specification. We expect prices to rise marginally for the new model when it arrives later in the year.

Click here for our list of the best 7-seaters cars on sale...

Skip advert
Advertisement
Senior staff writer

Senior staff writer at Auto Express, Jordan joined the team after six years at evo magazine where he specialised in news and reviews of cars at the high performance end of the car market. 

Find a car with the experts

Skip advert
Advertisement

Recommended

Electric Mercedes GLB hits the road for the first time
Mercedes GLB (camouflaged) - front

Electric Mercedes GLB hits the road for the first time

Mercedes’ boxy baby SUV will be revamped with electric and petrol power
News
24 Apr 2025
Used Mercedes GLB (Mk1, 2019-date) buyer’s guide: a high quality used seven-seat SUV
Used Mercedes GLB - front

Used Mercedes GLB (Mk1, 2019-date) buyer’s guide: a high quality used seven-seat SUV

A full used buyer’s guide on the Mercedes GLB SUV covering the GLB Mk1 that’s been on sale since 2019
Used car tests
21 Nov 2024

Most Popular

Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution
Connecting charger to Hyundai Tucson PHEV

Flawed hybrid car efficiency data to stifle UK EV sales and propagate pollution

Half a million extra PHEVs could reach UK roads by 2030 in place of cleaner EVs due to changes surrounding the ZEV Mandate
News
19 May 2025
New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return
Ford Fiesta exclusive image

New Ford Fiesta: latest details on supermini’s potential return

The Ford Fiesta could be coming back as an electric car, and here’s everything we know so far
News
20 May 2025
Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots
Opinion - Kia

Kia is returning to its 'Keeping It Affordable' roots

Mike Rutherford thinks new cars are simply too expensive, but some manufacturers are starting to do something about it
Opinion
19 May 2025