Mercedes focuses on compact cars, a range that translates into over 7 million cars on the roads of the world: just think that in 2019 alone, 667,000 compact cars were sold globally, 40,000 in Italy. The two latest generation SUVs produced by the house are also compact: from the smallest GLA, offroad version of the A class, to the new GLB. Seemingly similar and yet so different these two cars represent the heart of the SUV range that goes up to the off-road par excellence, the G-Class. And they stand out from each other starting from the size: while the GLA is 4.4 meters long, the GLB reaches up to at 4.6 but despite this it falls fully into the 'list' of city compact cars. Same width (1.83 mm) while as regards the height the GLB reaches 1.66 mm (against 1.61 of the GLA).
Available in 5 versions (Executive, Business, Sport, Sprt Plus and Premium), the heart of the range is the 180d which starts at 35,600 euros for GLA, 35,400 for GLB. Prices from 38,300 euros (GLA) and 38,450 euros (GLB) for the 200d version, while those who choose the 4Matic get up to 42,350 euros for GLA and 42,900 euros for GLB which with a surcharge of one thousand euros is also available in the seven-seater version . The GLB AMG 35 4Matic versions are also available with a 4-cylinder 2-liter 306 hp engine combined with a 7G Speedshift transmission starting from 58,200 euros and the GLA 45 4Matic +, also available in the S variant with a two-liter engine that represents the four-cylinder most powerful turbo ever built in series available in two power levels (387 and 421 hp). The new generation of GLA, in addition to ensuring more space on board than in the past, strengthens safety by offering, among other things, the turn assistance function, the emergency corridor function, the side impact prevention system and the warning that signals the presence of pedestrians on the pedestrian crossings.
The driver assistance systems package includes the active assistance system for the adjustment of the Distronic distance with the braking functions in the presence of stationary vehicles, automatic restart in the queue in combination with the active parking assistance system and navigation, activation of the "sailing mode" "in the ECO driving program, active steering assistance system. The intuitive MBUX Infotainment system (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) is also available on board, which can be activated via voice actions by saying the keyword "Hey Mercedes" and the Energizing Coach which suggests the programs to be applied for well-being on board, taking into account also of personal well-being.
The same technologies are also available on the GLB which comes with powerful proportions, short overhangs and an off-road oriented design, with the possibility of having seven seats, thanks to the 2,829 mm wheelbase which increases its habitability. This is also evident in the size of the baggage which boasts a volume of between 570 and 1,805 liters, numbers comparable to those of a station wagon.
