Big news for those who are thinking of buying a luxury SUV – Mercedes-Benz has discontinued its seven-seater SUV, GLB in India. This vehicle was launched in December 2022 and now after just one and a half years it has been bid farewell from the roads of India. Let us understand this whole news in easy language and know why Mercedes took such a decision, what is the company’s planning ahead and if you are planning to buy a luxury SUV then what are the options for you.
Mercedes-Benz GLB: Launch in India and Beginning of the Journey
Mercedes-Benz launched the GLB in India in December 2022. It was the company’s first seven-seater entry level luxury SUV, which was fully imported and brought to India. This means that the GLB was not manufactured in India, but it was brought as a CBU i.e. Completely Built Unit. It was imported from the plant in Mexico.
GLB Price and Competition
The GLB’s starting ex-showroom price in India was Rs 63.80 lakh, which went up to Rs 69.80 lakh for the top variant. If we compare it with other luxury SUVs, it was cheaper than the Land Rover Discovery Sport by Rs 1.60 lakh to Rs 7.60 lakh. That is, Mercedes had introduced it as the most affordable seven-seater luxury SUV in India.
Sales and Response
Although the GLB was not a great seller in India, Mercedes-Benz still seemed satisfied with the sales of this SUV. The company said that all the units allotted for India were completely sold out. This means that the company sent a limited number of vehicles for this model to India and all were sold.
But, because it was imported and the price was a bit high, this car could not attract people on a large scale. This may be the reason why Mercedes-Benz has now removed it from its Indian portfolio.
Mercedes-Benz’s Current SUV Lineup in India
Mercedes-Benz has a long series of luxury vehicles in India, which includes petrol, diesel and electric vehicles. Although the GLB has now been discontinued, the company is still selling a fully electric SUV called the EQB.
Mercedes-Benz EQB: Electric Option
- The EQB comes in two variants – EQB 250+ and EQB 350.
- The EQB 250+ is priced at Rs 72.20 lakh (ex-showroom).
- The EQB 350 is priced at Rs 78.90 lakh.
- Both the vehicles are fully electric and are imported and sold in India.
If you are looking for a family SUV and want to buy an electric vehicle keeping the future in mind, then the EQB can be a good option. It has seven seats, the style is premium and the drive is also very smooth.
Engine Options Available in GLB
Mercedes-Benz GLB was launched in India in three variants – GLB 200 Progressive, GLB 220d 4MATIC and GLB 220d AMG Line 4MATIC.
GLB 200 Progressive
- 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol engine
- 161 bhp power and 250 Nm torque
- 7-speed dual clutch automatic gearbox
- Front-wheel drive
GLB 220d Variants
- 2.0-litre diesel engine
- 190 bhp power and 400 Nm torque
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- All wheel drive (4MATIC)
Facelift Came in 2023 But Not in India
In 2023, Mercedes-Benz launched the facelift version of the GLB in international markets, which included some new features and engine updates. The most important change was that it was given 48V mild-hybrid technology, which was now available in both petrol and diesel engine options.
But sadly, this facelift version never came to India. This also makes it clear that Mercedes-Benz was no longer focused on the GLB in India and was gradually preparing to remove it from its range.
What Are the Options in India Now?
Now that the GLB is discontinued, those looking for a seven-seater luxury SUV have some other options. For example:
- Land Rover Discovery Sport – It also gets seven seats and is priced slightly higher than the GLB.
- Volvo XC90 – A premium option, which offers great space and high safety ratings.
- Toyota Fortuner Legender or MG Gloster – If you want a slightly premium feel and prefer bigger size and features over luxury brands.
Mercedes-Benz’s Future Plans
The company is currently preparing the second generation version of the GLB, which is expected to be launched in the international market by 2026. If there is demand for it again in India, then the company may launch it in India as well.
Mercedes-Benz’s focus is now rapidly increasing on electric vehicles. Looking at vehicles like EQB, it is clear that the company is gradually turning its portfolio towards electric and hybrid vehicles.
Conclusion: GLB’s Departure and Impact on the Market
The discontinuation of the GLB can be a shock to those who were looking for a luxury, compact, seven-seater SUV. However, Mercedes-Benz has taken this step thoughtfully and its aim is to keep its product lineup fresh.
But the good thing is that Mercedes-Benz has retained the EQB, which is a great electric SUV and is also a better option for the environment.
If you are looking for a luxury SUV that is full of features, If you want strong performance and brand value, then options like EQB, Discovery Sport or Volvo XC90 are available for you.
Some Important Things to Keep in Mind
- GLB is no longer available in India.
- EQB is available in two variants in India and is fully electric.
- Mercedes-Benz is now moving its portfolio towards electric and hybrid.
- The second generation GLB is expected to arrive in 2026.
- If you wanted to buy GLB, then now the second hand market is the only option. But if you want to experience new technology and luxury, then options like EQB can be test driven today.
