Mercedes-AMG GLB35 compact SUV revealed

Combining striking design, handling dynamics, and space for up to seven occupants, the new Mercedes-AMG GLB35 4MATIC delivers unrivalled versatility in the compact SUV segment.

A 2.0-litre turbocharged engine rated at 302bhp and producing 400Nm of torque sits in the GLB35, while power is transmitted through Mercedes' AMG SPEEDSHIFT DCT 8G dual-clutch transmission, giving the car an acceleration time of 0-100km/h in 5.2 seconds.

The car also features the performance-oriented AMG Performance 4MATIC all-wheel drive system to put all that power onto the road, continuously ensuring the best possible ratio of dynamism, traction and efficiency.

A multi-disc clutch with AMG-specific electromechanical control splits torque delivery between the front and rear axle, and can deliver up to 50% of total torque to the rear wheels during dynamic driving manoeuvres or when driving on snow or ice.

AMG has also tuned the suspension on the GLB35 to allow for high cornering speeds with low roll rates. The high critical limits guarantee sheer driving pleasure while allowing the vehicle remains safe and predictable at all times.

The car also sports completely redesigned components, such as steering knuckles and transverse control arms at the front axle, as well as the subframe and the wheel carriers at the rear axle, for increased lateral dynamics.

On the exterior, the AMG radiator grille is used for the first time in a 35-series model, and emphasises membership into the AMG family. The front and rear splitter, as well as the AMG roof spoiler, also help to set the car apart from standard GLB models.

19-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels painted in tantalum grey with a high-sheen finish and the AMG high-performance brake callipers with black AMG lettering at the front provide further visual highlights. Three further wheel variants from 19 to 21 inches are available as additional options.

On the inside, sport seats upholstered in black ARTICO man-made leather/DINAMICA microfibre feature red double topstitching and red seat belts.

The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) also features in the interior, delivering an even closer bond between the vehicle, driver and passengers. This is achieved thanks to innovative voice control activated with the keyword 'Hey Mercedes', with the artificial intelligence (AI) software now able to recognise and understand voice commands common in infotainment and vehicle control even when spoken indirectly.

The new GLB35 4MATIC is the first compact car by Mercedes-AMG to be available with an optional third row of seats, allowing third row passengers up to a height of 1.68m to be accommodated in comfort.

When not in use, the seats can be lowered so that they are flush with the load compartment floor in order to extend the load compartment.

Convenience features in the third row include two drink holders between the seats and two stowage compartments with rubber-lined inserts on the left and right in the load compartment panelling. Each of these is fitted with a USB charging socket.