Mercedes-Benz has revealed the second-generation GLB, with the biggest change for company car and salary sacrifice users being the arrival of a fully electric version alongside hybrid models. While the new GLB closely follows the familiar boxy shape of its predecessor, Mercedes says it is more spacious, more versatile and significantly more advanced, making it a stronger fit for family and business use.
The electric version, officially branded GLB with EQ Technology, is based on Mercedes’ new MMA platform and will be offered in two main forms. The rear-wheel-drive GLB 250+ uses an 85kWh battery and is claimed to deliver up to 392 miles of WLTP range, which places it among the longest-range electric SUVs in its class. A dual-motor GLB 350 4MATIC adds all-wheel drive and stronger performance, while still offering up to 381 miles of range.
Charging performance is a major step forward compared with the outgoing EQB. Thanks to an 800-volt electrical architecture, the electric Mercedes GLB supports DC charging speeds of up to 320kW, allowing more than 160 miles of range to be added in around 10 minutes under ideal conditions. For drivers using salary sacrifice or company car schemes, that combination of long range and fast charging is key to reducing disruption on longer journeys.
Practicality remains central to the GLB’s appeal. Mercedes has increased overall length by nearly 100mm and extended the wheelbase by 60mm, improving legroom and headroom in the first two rows. In the UK, the new GLB will come as standard with seven seats, with improved access to the third row thanks to larger rear door openings and a wider range of movement for the sliding second row. While the third row is best suited to children or teenagers, it adds flexibility that is still relatively rare among electric SUVs, especially of this size.
Boot space is competitive for the class, with up to 480 litres available with all seven seats in place, expanding to 1,605 litres when the rear rows are folded. The electric version also adds a 127-litre front boot, useful for charging cables or muddy outdoor gear. Mercedes also confirms a towing capacity of up to two tonnes for the electric GLB, making it suitable for caravans, trailers or bike carriers.
Inside, the GLB adopts Mercedes’ latest digital layout, including the new generation of MBUX infotainment. Higher-spec versions feature the optional Superscreen setup, combining a digital driver display with a large central touchscreen and an additional passenger display. The system integrates Google Maps navigation, wireless smartphone mirroring and an AI-based voice assistant, while Mercedes has also reintroduced more physical controls on the steering wheel following customer feedback.
Hybrid powertrains will follow the electric launch, using a new compact 1.5-litre petrol engine paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission that incorporates an electric motor. These versions will allow short distances to be covered on electric power alone, while still offering the familiarity of a combustion engine for longer journeys.
For salary sacrifice users in particular, the electric GLB’s appeal is clear. Zero tailpipe emissions keep Benefit-in-Kind tax low, helping to offset higher list prices, while the combination of seven seats, long range and rapid charging makes it a realistic family car rather than a niche EV choice.
Mercedes has confirmed the new GLB is already on sale in Germany, with UK arrivals expected in early 2026. Pricing has yet to be finalised, but early indications suggest the electric version will sit at around the £50,000 mark before incentives. As soon as we have the lease prices of the Mercedes GLB you will find them here.
