It’s already been 3 years since the Mercedes-Benz GLB And GLA current generation are on our market. The manufacturer therefore sees this as an opportunity to update them for the 2024 model year. mild hybridization for the entire range.
In terms of design, Mercedes does very little to distinguish the 2024 GLB/GLA from their predecessors. We only subtly altered the front and rear parts thanks to slightly redesigned bumpers and headlights. Then there are new body colors and new rims that dress it all up.
A cabin that follows the manufacturer’s trend
Same story in the cabin where everything remains relatively identical, in addition to a brand new steering wheel. This follows the trend of recent Mercedes-Benz products by integrating the four horizontal bars on which physical controls have been affixed. There is also a revision of the materials used, the color schemes and the upholstery of the seats.
The technology on board is also evolving. For example, Mercedes-Benz says it has improved the accuracy and efficiency of driver assistance and safety technologies. The MBUX multimedia system now incorporates more precise and intelligent voice recognition, capable, according to the manufacturer, of adapting to its user over time. Finally, these vehicles are equipped with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Mercedes has also taken the opportunity to integrate mini video games into this system to entertain passengers when the vehicle is stationary.
Hybrid for all
The biggest novelty is the addition of mild hybridization at 48 volts for all engines, including the AMG 35 versions. In addition to temporarily adding a “boost” of 13 horsepower, the system mainly affects energy efficiency, that is to say that the manufacturer promises an improvement in fuel consumption and a reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.
However, the GLA and GLB 250 are still powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. It develops 221 horsepower and produces 258 lb-ft of torque. This engine is still mated to an 8-speed dual-clutch gearbox, while 4MATIC all-wheel drive comes standard.
As for the high-performance AMG 35 versions, the 2.0-liter engine pushes the deal to 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft. The AMG versions inherit the same 8-speed gearbox as the 250 models, as well as 4MATIC all-wheel drive.
Mercedes-Benz expects to bring the 2024 GLA to market later this year, while the GLB is expected to arrive in dealerships nationwide early next year. Until then, we will have the chance to test them to give you our impressions.
