Mercedes-Benz is the largest luxury car brand in the Indian market, with the most diversified SUV line-up in the business. The company has now introduced two new SUVs in India, namely GLB and EQB. The Mercedes-Benz GLB is priced from Rs 63.80 lakh (ex-showroom) for the base-spec trim, while the range-topping variant gets a sticker price of Rs 69.80 lakh, ex-showroom. The GLB comes to India via the CBU route, and it is the company’s second offering with seats for seven occupants. Talking of the Mercedes-Benz EQB, it will retain in a single configuration, and the EQB has launched at Rs 74.50 lakh, ex-showroom.
The GLB looks very much like the GLS, and thus it is often referred to as baby GLS. With a GLS-like stance, it gets a large glass area on the sides, and the top-spec variant rides on a set of 19-inch rims. The nose features a large grille, which draws inspiration from the GLS. Flanking on either side are rectangular headlamps. The bonnet is flat and features power domes. The tail section of the GLB is upright and the glow pattern for tail lamps is also inspired by the bigger GLS.
The GLB retails with two powertrain choices in India. Buyers can settle down with either a 1.3L turbo-petrol motor or a 2.0L oil burner. The petrol motor pushes out 150 hp and 250 Nm of rated output. It comes paired with a 7-speed DCT, channeling power to the front wheels of the car. The diesel engine, on the other hand, pushes out 190 hp and 400 Nm, and it is mated to an 8-speed AT. Also, the option of AWD is available with the diesel engine.
The Mercedes-Benz EQB is the country’s only electric SUV with seven seats, keeping itself distinctive from the EV crowd. It is based on the GLB itself with a similar silhouette but subtle design changes. The electric SUV gets a closed grille on the front, along with slim headlamps and a reprofiled bumper. Around the rear, tail lamps are connected, and the boot lid is free from creases.
In terms of powertrain, the EQB uses a 66.5 kWh battery pack, which offers a claimed range of 423 km (WLTP). Power figures stand at 228 hp and 392 Nm. However, to keep the range in check, the top speed is restricted to 160 kmph. Both cars come with 7 airbags, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, keyless entry, panoramic sunroof, and an MBUX system with two 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment unit.
