The Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 has been unveiled in Germany, introducing a more powerful version of the redesigned compact crossover’s hybrid lineup. With 228 horsepower from its turbocharged 1.5-liter engine and additional assistance from a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, the new variant raises questions about which powertrain versions could eventually reach the U.S. market.
New Mercedes-Benz GLB Prepares for U.S. Showrooms
The second-generation Mercedes-Benz GLB made its world premiere earlier this year. Based on the redesigned CLA four-door coupe, the new model brings combustion-powered and fully electric versions together under the GLB name, replacing the EQB nameplate.
Mercedes-Benz hopes to build on the success and recognition achieved by the CLA with its redesigned compact crossover.
The new GLB is expected to reach U.S. showrooms in the fourth quarter of this year. Its initial electric lineup will include the single-motor GLB 250+ and the dual-motor GLB 350 4Matic, with mild-hybrid versions scheduled to follow soon afterward.
Details about the mild-hybrid models had yet to be determined, but the latest version unveiled in Germany provides a clearer picture of the powertrain options under consideration.
Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 Delivers 228 Horsepower
The newly unveiled GLB 250 is a hybrid model, as indicated by the absence of the “+” designation used for the fully electric GLB 250+.
In Europe, the combustion-powered GLB lineup currently includes the 180, 200, 200 4Matic, 220 and 220 4Matic. The introduction of the 250 and 250 4Matic places these new versions at the top of the range.
Under the hood, the GLB 250 uses a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine internally designated the M252 LS. The engine block is shared with the other hybrid GLB models, but the 250 delivers greater output.
The engine produces 228 horsepower, while the 48-volt mild-hybrid system can provide up to 31 additional horsepower of assistance. Mercedes-Benz also highlights the vehicle’s electric turbocharger, which draws on technology from the company’s Formula 1 experience.
Could the Mercedes-Benz GLB 250 Come to America?
The GLB receiving the 250 designation before the smaller, potentially sportier CLA raises questions about whether the same powertrain designation could eventually be applied to the four-door coupe. However, that possibility remains unconfirmed.
The GLB 220 is expected to be offered in the United States. Initial details about the redesigned GLB confirmed a 1.5-liter hybrid engine but did not identify the specific version planned for the American market.
The GLB 220 4Matic appeared to be the likely choice, but the unveiling of the more powerful GLB 250 raises the possibility that the U.S. lineup could include that version as well.
The GLB 220 produces 188 horsepower, with its mild-hybrid system providing up to 30 additional horsepower. By comparison, the GLB 250 offers higher engine output and up to 31 horsepower of hybrid assistance.
Although the exact U.S. mild-hybrid specification has not been confirmed, the GLB 250’s arrival in Germany adds another potential option as the redesigned crossover’s lineup prepares to expand.
