Mercedes-Benz is entering an important new chapter with the arrival of its latest GLB and all-electric GLC in Ireland, and this week we had an early opportunity to get behind the wheel of both. Our time was limited to around 15 minutes in each, so this was very much a first taste rather than a definitive verdict. Thankfully, we will be spending a full week with both models later this year, when we can properly explore range, charging, practicality and everyday usability.
Mercedes-Benz GLB
First up was the fully electric GLB 200 and, even after a relatively short drive, it left a strong impression. Comfortable, refined and with plenty of usable performance, the new GLB feels like a significant step forward from its predecessor. Mercedes-Benz has also done a good job with its latest software and driver assistance systems. The technology is there when required, but the driving aids are considerably less intrusive than some of the systems we have experienced recently.
Interestingly, the GLB reminded me of another electric SUV I drove last year, the Smart #5, a vehicle that has yet to make it to Ireland. Although the two use different platforms, there is an uncanny resemblance in certain areas, and they also have a surprisingly similar feel from behind the wheel. Perhaps that should not be entirely surprising. Geely and Mercedes-Benz are partners in Smart, with Mercedes having a major influence on the brand’s design direction. While the engineering underneath the GLB and #5 has gone in different directions, both have ended up occupying remarkably similar territory.
The Mercedes still feels a touch more premium, however, and the GLB’s combination of refinement, comfort and technology makes it an extremely pleasant place to spend time. Practicality should also be a major selling point. The new GLB is longer and wider than before and remains the more family-focused of these two newcomers. Crucially, it is the GLB that offers the seven-seat option, with an adjustable second row allowing owners to prioritise passenger or luggage space. The GLB 200 we drove uses a 58kWh battery and offers a WLTP range of up to 425km. Further up the electric range, the GLB 250+ stretches that figure to 624km. Hybrid versions are also available, with Irish pricing for the GLB range beginning at €59,355.
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Then there is the new electric GLC, and can we nominate it as an early contender for rear of the year? Mercedes-Benz has done a superb job with the styling, particularly around the back. It has real presence without appearing overdone, while the redesigned grille, sleeker profile and pronounced wheel arches give the electric GLC its own identity. We drove the range-topping GLC 400 4MATIC and it immediately felt every bit worthy of its premium positioning. It simply wafted along in near silence, with a supple ride and plentiful power. Passenger space also impressed, with perfectly respectable room both front and rear, even with a few leggy journalists on board.
Inside, the latest fourth-generation MBUX system brings Microsoft and Google AI integration alongside Mercedes’ Superscreen, while the overall cabin presentation feels suitably upmarket. The GLC 400 4MATIC uses a 94kWh battery and offers up to 664km of WLTP range. Its 800-volt electrical architecture enables a 10 to 80 per cent charge in 22 minutes, while Mercedes says more than 300km of range can be added in around ten minutes at a suitably powerful charger. Prices for the electric GLC start from €72,085. Fifteen minutes in each was never going to tell the complete story, but first impressions are very positive. Both represent substantial improvements over their outgoing siblings, with the transformation of the GLB particularly noticeable! We will have both cars for a full week later this year, and that should tell us whether these very promising first impressions hold up in everyday Irish driving.
