New 2023 Mercedes-AMG GLB35 revealed alongside facelifted GLA35
As part of a round of updates for the GLA and GLB crossovers, the hot AMG versions have gained mild-hybrid engines
Mercedes is beginning to rollout electrification across its AMG models to varying degrees, and the firm's GLA and GLB crossovers are next in line to receive a hybrid boost – albeit a minor one.
The entry-level SUVs have been updated for 2023 with subtle design tweaks and revised interiors, but the key mechanical development for the AMGs is a new 48V electrical system designed to improve engine response and efficiency.
The 2-litre turbocharged four-cylinder motor remains in both cars, but it's now augmented by a belt-driven starter/generator unit which can offer a temporary 14bhp uplift under load. Due to the differing torque peaks of the combustion engine and 48V motor, the overall gain in power is just 3bhp, bringing the total output to 305bhp – torque remains unchanged at 295lb ft, which is sustained between 3000 and 4000rpm.
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The mild-hybrid setup also enables smoother start-stop transitions in traffic, says Mercedes, along with a coasting function to reduce energy losses. Power is sent to all four wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox, enabling the GLB35 to sprint to 62mph in 5.5sec, with the GLA35 shaving three tenths from that time. As ever, AMG-specific chassis tuning will help make use of the more potent hardware.
As before, the GLA35 is the more conventional of the two crossovers, with the GLB35 offering boxier, upright styling and seven seats. The design changes are very subtle for each, with cleaner front aprons and new LED light units. More meaningful upgrades have been made inside, with both cars now running Mercedes’ latest MBUX infotainment software.
This offers AMG-specific graphics on the twin 10.25-inch screens mounted to the dash, a ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Aside from a new twin-spoke AMG steering wheel, the overall cabin design is familiar to the previous models, with turbine-style air vents, a bank of climate control toggles and swathes of ambient lighting.
Buyers can specify new 19 or 20-inch alloys as part of the updates, along with more supportive AMG performance seats for the GLA. Pricing hasn’t been revealed for either AMG model yet, but expect modest uplifts over the current GLB35’s £53,295 starting price, and the GLA35’s £53,955 figure.
