The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB is nearing its world premiere after completing intense cold-weather testing. Designed to offer a “Welcome Home” experience even in subzero temperatures, this new generation compact SUV combines rugged capability with luxurious comfort and advanced technology.
Testing the GLB in Extreme Conditions
Mercedes-Benz engineers are putting the all-new GLB through rigorous trials at the Mercedes Technology Center in Sindelfingen. In state-of-the-art climatic tunnels, temperatures can drop as low as -40°C or rise to scorching desert levels. These tests ensure that the GLB performs flawlessly in all environments, maintaining comfort, visibility, and efficiency.
Simulating Arctic Winds and Snowstorms
Inside the cold tunnel, the team recreates blizzard conditions with powerful snow cannons and wind speeds up to 200 km/h. Every element, from windscreen wipers to air intakes, is tested to ensure perfect operation in harsh weather. Even at -15°C, the GLB’s heating system can defrost a frozen windscreen within 15 minutes using only the defrost function.
Mastering the Heat: From St. Moritz to St. Tropez
Beyond snow and ice, the GLB must also handle extreme heat. Mercedes-Benz uses a dedicated heat chamber to replicate desert conditions with temperatures up to +60°C. A solar simulation system reproduces sunlight intensity reaching 1,200 watts per square metre, matching real-world desert exposure. The “Hot Road” test bench even mimics road surface temperatures between +50°C and +70°C, ensuring components withstand the most demanding conditions.
Cutting-Edge Testing Technology
Each climatic wind tunnel houses a 780 kW rolling road capable of simulating speeds up to 265 km/h. These facilities allow Mercedes-Benz to test 4MATIC models under realistic traction scenarios and record every reaction in real time. The result is reproducible, precise data that enhances quality, safety, and reliability year-round.
Redefining Comfort and Efficiency
When it comes to comfort, the new GLB outperforms expectations. During tests at -7°C, it heated its interior twice as fast as its predecessor while consuming about half the energy. This leap in efficiency comes from a new heat pump system derived from the VISION EQXX program. Using waste heat from the electric drive, battery, and ambient air, it optimizes cabin temperature with minimal energy use.
Intelligent Thermal Strategy
The GLB’s heating process starts automatically when passengers enter the cabin. The system prioritizes warming the upper body and hands, creating immediate comfort. This smart regulation extends to charging sessions and rest stops, maintaining consistent interior conditions regardless of external temperatures.
Interior Design: Modern, Minimal, and Inviting
Inside, the GLB introduces a refined design language. The new optional MBUX Superscreen stretches across the dashboard, merging technology with elegance. Circular air vents finished in Silver Shadow, an ergonomic steering wheel, and floating console design give the cabin a futuristic yet familiar feel.
Spacious Flexibility for Every Journey
Available as a five- or seven-seater, the new GLB offers more headroom and legroom than before. The second-row seats feature adjustable backrests, while the third row folds flat into the floor for expanded cargo space. The panoramic roof enhances the open-air feel, and its advanced glass coating maintains optimal cabin temperatures in both winter and summer.
MB.OS: A Smarter Driving Companion
The new Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) introduces a seamless, intelligent digital experience. Integrated with MBUX Gen4, it features the Zero Layer interface, 3D Surround Navigation with Google Maps, and a Virtual Assistant powered by generative AI. Over-the-air updates and advanced driver assistance functions ensure the GLB remains future-ready.
Next-Level Assistance and Safety
MB.DRIVE bundles eight cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors into a comprehensive driver assistance suite. DISTRONIC distance control is now standard in Europe, with functions designed for future software upgrades. Together, these technologies make the GLB one of the most advanced compact SUVs in its class.
Performance and Efficiency Highlights
The new GLB range includes both combustion and electric variants. The electric GLB benefits from its efficient heat pump and streamlined aerodynamics, enhancing its range even in freezing temperatures. Each model prioritizes balanced performance, intelligent traction, and refined ride comfort, core to Mercedes-Benz’s SUV philosophy.
Summary
The all-new Mercedes-Benz GLB combines durability, comfort, and intelligence in one package. From blizzards to desert heat, it delivers unwavering performance and a genuinely welcoming interior. With its smart climate control, spacious design, and advanced digital systems, the 2025 GLB redefines what a compact luxury SUV can be.
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Source: Mercedes-Benz
