Mercedes GLB Electric (EQB successor) rendered ahead of its 2026 launch

Update: ‘Exterior,’ ‘Release Date,’ and ‘MBUX Superscreen’ and ‘New MB.OS’ sub-sections of ‘Interior & Features’ updated, and ‘Dimmable sunroof with illuminated star pattern’ sub-section added to ‘Interior & Features’ and ‘Variants’ sub-section added to ‘Specifications.’

The GLB, one of four models retained in Mercedes-Benz’s streamlined compact vehicle lineup, along with its electric equivalent, the EQB, will undergo a full model change next month. In their second generation, these cars will be unified, and the latter will be rebranded as the “GLB Electric.”

Here’s everything we know and expect from the Mercedes GLB Electric.

Exterior

The Mercedes GLB Electric is expected to feature a more offbeat character, aimed at improving its appeal among young customers. As shown in our exclusive renderings and evident in teaser images, the silhouette will stay close to the current model, maintaining a proper SUV stance and maximizing space. However, the front and rear will align with the future Mercedes look.

We expect the next-gen GLB to adopt the new pixel-matrix grille that debuted on the GLC Electric, where a smoked-glass lattice with 942 backlit square dots, framed by illuminated contour lighting and a glowing three-pointed star, can animate in a greeting or parting sequence.

The functional air intake grille will likely be a smaller unit located at the lowest part of the front. The headlamps will likely feature a gently curved rectangular shape and be connected via a continuous light band. Mercedes-Benz should offer the option to specify a star-shaped daytime running light inside the headlamps for a catchier look.

On the sides, retractable handles that sit flush with the body when the doors are locked would provide enhanced aerodynamics and a sleeker look. The upright rear will feature new connected combination lamps, possibly with a standard star signature.

Interior & Features

Mercedes GLB Electric interior
Extensive digital real estate and a comprehensive ambient lighting system extending up to the panoramic sunroof will make the interior of the GLB Electric appealing for tech-savvy drivers. Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

The interior of the Mercedes GLB Electric has been designed based on a new minimalist philosophy that reduces layers and excess controls. From the dashboard to the steering wheel and switchgear, much of the new interior bears a resemblance to the larger GLC Electric.

Seating

Besides the aesthetic appeal, Mercedes-Benz has improved space and comfort in the second generation. An optional 2+3+2 seating layout is the GLB Electric’s key distinguishing element from the GLA Electric, the future successor to the EQA.

The GLB Electric offers noticeably more headroom in the front seats, more legroom and longer thigh support in the second row, and easier access to the optional third row. Customers will be able to fold the third row into the load floor when not needed.

MBUX Superscreen

The optional MBUX Superscreen in the GLB Electric is an end-to-end upright glass surface integrating three displays. Mercedes-Benz hasn’t shared the sizes yet, but images suggest we are looking at a 10.25-inch instrument cluster on the driver’s side, a 14-inch touchscreen in the center, and a star pattern graphic or an optional 14-inch touchscreen on the passenger side.

In Europe, Mercedes-Benz will likely offer wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto support, Augmented Reality navigation and traffic instructions, and a head-up display, as paid extras.

Mercedes GLB Electric interior dashboard
Mercedes-Benz will offer the GLB Electric with a passenger touchscreen as an option.

New MB.OS

New for this generation is also the Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS), featuring new welcome animations, the Zero Layer home screen, MBUX Virtual Assistant powered by generative AI, and over-the-air software updates.

Thanks to MB.OS, the GLB Electric supports an array of ‘MB.Drive’ advanced driver assistance systems, including DISTRONIC distance control. These ADAS functions operate using input from ten cameras, five radar sensors, and 12 ultrasonic sensors, all enabled by a water-cooled processor.

Dimmable sunroof with illuminated star pattern

The Mercedes GLB Electric will be available with a dimmable panoramic sunroof as an option, allowing customers to change the transparency segment by segment. Another option for the panoramic sunroof will be an illuminated star pattern that recreates a night-sky effect.

Mercedes GLB Electric panoramic sunroof star pattern
In addition to electrochromic shading, an illuminated star pattern option will be available for the panoramic sunroof of the Mercedes GLB Electric. Image Source: Mercedes-Benz

Enhanced climate control system

The Mercedes GLB Electric offers substantial improvements in climate control over the EQB. During a 20-minute drive at 19°F, its climate control system heats the cabin in about half the time compared with the EQB, while consuming only about half the energy.

A heat pump reutilizes waste heat from the powertrain, traction battery pack, and ambient air to reduce energy consumption and speed up the process.

Specifications

Variants

According to a report JESMB.de published on November 11, 2025, Mercedes-Benz will introduce the GLB Electric in 200 EQ RWD, 250+ EQ RWD, and 350 4MATIC with EQ AWD variants, with 221 hp, 268 hp, and 349 hp powertrains. The 200 variant will have a 58 kWh LFP battery pack and the 250+ and 350 4MATIC will feature an 85 kWh NMC battery pack.

Acceleration & Top Speed

The GLB Electric 250+ EQ may accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in around seven seconds, and the GLB Electric 350 4MATIC with EQ may take close to five seconds for the same. Both should have a top speed of 130 mph, marking a significant improvement over the EQB’s 99 mph.

Range & Charging

The 85 kWh NMC battery pack should support charging at up to 320 kW and take as little as just 22 minutes for a 10-80% fast-charging session. We estimate it to deliver an EPA-est. range of around 325 miles in the 250+ EQ variant, and less than 300 miles in the 350 4MATIC with EQ variant. The 200 EQ variant is unlikely to make it to the U.S. due to its limited range.

Release Date

Mercedes GLB Electric with the new grille
We see the GLB Electric as a more significant launch than the GLC, given its affordability, unique positioning, and competitive specs.

The Mercedes GLB Electric will debut on December 8, 2025, and should go on sale in Europe in summer 2026. We’re awaiting details about the U.S. launch, where the GLB Electric is expected to start at around USD 50,000.