As we get closer to the 2019 Frankfurt Motor Show in October we are seeing more new-model releases, so it’s a great time to check back with MotorBiscuit. Yesterday was the 2021 Mercedes GLE and today it’s the 2021 Mercedes AMG GLB 35. 

As Mercedes closes in on every niche possible, the 2021 GLB gets squished between the GLA and GLC. Of course, it’s aimed straight at the Audi SQ3 and coming BMW X2 M competition. Why does it seem like these split-hair niches are always between the German car brands? 

Niche or Not

However niche this all might seem, the AMG GLB 35 does offer some interesting features for its class, and this class may appeal to more than first meets the eye.

If optioned it can seat seven, for starters. It is powered by the M260 turbocharged 302 hp, 295 ft-lb of torque, two-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The standard GLB comes with 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque as a comparison. The top speed is 155 mph and this standard five-seater will go from 0-60 in 5.1 seconds. 

AMG Speedshift

Driving all of this power to the wheels is an eight-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch automatic that is tied to a standard 4Matic all-wheel-drive. Where the AMG magic is applied is with the suspension. To reduce body roll both the steering knuckles and control arms are AMG components. 

“With the new GLB 35 4Matic we are extending our product portfolio by adding a highly attractive model for an active target group that attaches special importance to versatility.” Tobias Moers, Mercedes-AMG GmbH’s CEO says. “This also includes the optional seven-seater capability of our new compact SUV, though without having to sacrifice the genes typical of an AMG. Because in its segment, our GLB 35 likewise fulfills our brand promise of driving performance.”

You can also opt for the AMG Dynamic Select Ride Control dampers which are electronically adjusted for added handling options at your fingertips. Suspension priorities by AMG are for high-cornering and low body roll characteristics with long-distance comfort a must in a seven-passenger crossover. 

AMG Dynamic Select

AMG Dynamic Select gives you a lot more than electronic ride control. You also have the capability to adjust a myriad of engine, transmission, throttle, steering, traction, and stability functions. 

Optional 20- and 21-inch wheels are available with standard 19-inch titanium grey wheels looking like an upgrade themselves. Hiding behind the wheels are four-piston brakes painted silver, not red. 

Outside, the AMG touch is seen with the plastic wheel arches that tie in nicely with the rockers and fascia adorned with the 15-bar AMG grille. The size of this AMG grille is more in proportion to the GLB’s front end than the GLE’s larger version. Whether it appeals to you over the stock GLB’s fascia is moot as this announces to the world this is not your run-of-the-mill GLB. 

Inside you get Mercedes “MBUX” infotainment system with some added AMG functionality. Unique details and fabrics are all a part of the AMG experience. 

The GLB arrives in the states late in 2020, and prices should start somewhere around $55,000.