Flash Drive

2021 Mercedes AMG GLB35

June 4, 2022 - Behind The Wheel - Comments: 

Model Tested: 2021 Mercedes AMG GLB35 4Matic

The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLB35 is compact SUV that’s great fun to drive thanks to its AMG tuning and powerful engine.

Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4, 302 horsepower and 295 lb.-ft torque

Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission

EPA Rating: 21-mpg city, 26-mpg highway, 23-mpg combined

Base Price: $49,500

As Tested: $60,135

Performance:

Strong performance from a turbocharged four-cylinder

Feels quicker than engine size might

The 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 engine and crisp 8-speed automatic transmission put a lot of performance into a small package.

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Excellent 8-speed dual-clutch automatic

Paddle shifters for quick, crisp shifts

Great performance exhaust

Sport mode

Lowered suspension

Quite athletic on twisty roads

All-weather security with 4Matic AWD

OK stop/start operation at traffic lights

Comfort:

High class interior materials/features

The thick, flat-bottom leather steering wheel is one of the best available.
Front seat room, support and comfort are all excellent.

Excellent, supportive front seats

Adjustable thigh supports both front seats

Super stretch-out front legroom

Outstanding contoured, textured flat bottom steering wheel

Heated seats

Driver power lumbar

Good adult size second row seating

Adjustable seatbacks second row

Wide armrest with cupholders

Second row room and comfort are also great.

Tight, kids-only optional third row seating

Utility:

Power liftgate

Foot motion operated

Large locking glovebox

Large front door bins

Wide infotainment screen

Medium size sun visors

Small storage under cargo deck

Hatchback access and cargo space are both very good.

Split folding seats

WOW Factors:

Strong, athletic performance

Fun to drive

Slightly raucous exhaust notes

Comfortable, supportive seats

Great panorama sunroof

Excellent rain sensing wipers

Superb steering wheel

Sharp styling

Styling is crisp and attractive with the AMG enhancement.

Whines:

Radio presets not intuitive

Flimsy seatback nets

Back of door bins hard to access

Third row seat access difficult

Options added 10K to base price

Bottom Line:

The 2021 Mercedes AMG GLB35 4Matic is a small crossover SUV that has a distinctive sporty personality worthy of its AMG moniker. With the optional third row seating it is versatile and practical yet great fun to drive on winding country roads. It’s no slouch when merging with freeway traffic. The AMG GLB35 is equally at home in the city or on long trips. The unique Mercedes AMG GLB35 4Matic puts a lot of fun and spunk in a very practical family-friendly vehicle.