2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB

The Mercedes-Benz GLB is offered in three trims: GLB 250, GLB 250 4MATIC, and AMG GLB 35. The GLB 250 has a starting price of about $37,000 and comes standard with features such as active brake assist, rain-sensing wipers, LED daytime running lights, power front seats, dual-zone climate control, and MB-tex upholstery. Backup camera, over-the-air updates, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, a 7-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and hands-free Bluetooth are also standard. The GLB 250 4MATIC brings the MSRP up to roughly $39,000 and includes the same standard equipment as the GLB 250 but also adds all-wheel-drive that can send up to 50-percent of the engine's power to the rear wheels. New for 2021, the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 adds many sporty features. Those include a more powerful engine, an AMG sport suspension, a reprogrammed transmission with RACE START function, AMG driving modes, and a high-performance braking system. Inside, the GLB 35 gets a sporty steering wheel made of Nappa leather, unique AMG infotainment menus, and sport seats upholstered in leatherette/microfiber with contrast stitching.

The GLB 250 trims use a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The sophisticated Mercedes-Benz engine is mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission. Fuel economy figures are currently 23 miles per gallon in the city and 30 miles per gallon highway. The GLB 35 employs a similar engine, but this one is turbocharged by AMG, the in-house tuner, to produce 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.

The cabin of the GLB is versatile but sophisticated, offering some of the latest technology Mercedes-Benz has to offer, including a 7-inch digital display that the cockpit is styled around. In addition to a voice interface, the high-tech touchpads, and haptic touch steering wheel buttons, the GLB also offers comfort and luxury. The interior can be ordered in beige or black, with a high-quality leatherette interior. Several leather interiors are also available. Offered in both a five- and seven-seat versions, the GLB can accommodate more than its compact size might elude.