New Mercedes-AMG GLB powered up with 302bhp

The new GLB 35 becomes the hot new version of Mercedes’ new seven-seater SUV.

Mercedes-AMG unveiled its new GLB SUV recently as a sensible and practical seven-seater designed for families.

That’s all well and good, but there was little in the way of excitement. Until now, when Mercedes-Benz has pulled the covers off a new AMG variant – the GLB 35, which joins its ever-growing line-up of performance SUVs.

The ‘35’ nameplate resembles Mercedes-AMG’s entry-level versions (as seen on the A-Class and CLA) but a plentiful 302bhp and 400Nm of torque is still produced from its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It’s mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, which delivers its power to all four wheels.

And despite being this family-oriented SUV, it can still manage to hit 60mph in five seconds and reach an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

A sportier AMG bodykit separates it from the standard car, while 19-inch alloy wheels also feature – optional 21-inch rims are offered, too. An ‘AMG Night Package’ also brings gloss black styling elements – should even racier styling be required.

The interior largely remains unchanged from the standard GLB – revised performance dials and a new flat-bottomed steering wheel being among the few changes. Five seats is the standard configuration, but a third row is optional, and something we recommend choosing.

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Full pricing still needs to be announced, but somewhere around the £50,000 mark is expected when order books open at the end of the year.