Mercedes-Benz has whipped the covers off its new Mercedes-AMG GLB35, handing the newest member of its SUV family the go-faster treatment.
Employing the turbocharged 2,0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine already used in the likes of the Mercedes-AMG A35 and CLA35, the newcomer boasts 225 kW and 400 N.m, directed to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Shipping standard with a launch control function and variable AMG Performance 4Matic all-wheel drive, the Affalterbach-based performance division says the GLB35 will sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 5,2 seconds. The all-wheel-drive arrangement is regulated depending on the selected stage of the three-stage electronic stability programme.
Mercedes furthermore says the AMG suspension is tuned for both “high cornering speeds with a low tendency to roll” and a “balanced level of long-distance comfort”.
The AMG high-performance brake system is standard equipment, comprising silver brake callipers (with black lettering up front) and large internally ventilated and perforated discs. Indeed, the front axle gains four-piston fixed callipers and cast iron discs in size 350 x 34 mm, while the rear axle features single-piston floating callipers and cast iron brake discs in size 330 x 22 mm.
Interestingly, the GLB35 boasts the Panamericana grille, used for the first time on a 35-series model. The standard 19-inch five-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels are painted in tantalum grey with a high-sheen finish, although three further wheel variants (ranging in size from 19 to 21 inches) will available as options.
The new GLB35 is also the first compact vehicle by Mercedes-AMG to be optionally available with a third row of seats, taking the tally to seven.
