Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class Mild Hybrid

Finding a family car in Singapore is a delicate balancing act. You need something practical for school runs and weekend duties, refined to justify the premium badge, compact enough to navigate HDB lots—and ideally fuel-efficient to survive the COE climate without guilt. Mercedes-Benz believes it has the answer with the facelifted 2024 GLB 180, a compact SUV with seven-seat capability and the familiar Mercedes sense of occasion. But does it deliver? I spent some time with it to find out. On the Road: Comfort First, Performance Second The GLB 180 leans towards comfort, and it does so confidently. Its suspension tuning is noticeably soft, soaking up patchy asphalt and speed bumps with ease—perfect for the urban grind. Steering is well weighted and predictable, making the GLB feel smaller than it looks, especially in tight multi-storey carparks. The mild-hybrid setup also deserves credit. The 48-volt system and belt-driven starter-generator smooth out start-stop transitions, lending a welcome boost when pulling away from junctions. But push the GLB harder—such as with a full family on board or when tackling steep ramps—and the limitations of the modest 1.3-litre turbo engine become clear. Overtaking requires careful planning, and the engine can sound strained when worked. The upside? The cabin is now more technologically cohesive, thanks to the facelift's updated digital displays, upgraded USB-C ports, and refresh to the MBUX interface. Verdict: A Thoughtful, Versatile Family SUV—With Caveats The 2024 facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLB 180 remains one of the most versatile and family-friendly premium SUVs available in Singapore. Its blend of real-world practicality, seven-seat flexibility, compact urban manoeuvrability, and unmistakable Mercedes cabin refinement makes it a strong contender for families wanting a premium yet sensible vehicle. It is not perfect—power is modest, some key features are missing, and equipment omissions (like the panoramic sunroof and rear air vents) may frustrate buyers. However, judged as a whole, the GLB 180 stands as one of the most balanced and thoughtfully packaged compact luxury SUVs currently available.... Read More

Spacious cabin with optional 7-seat layout Premium interior and intuitive infotainment system Comfortable and refined drive Good practicality for family use... Read More