Facelifted Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC Launched Locally

This updated iteration of the AMG-fied GLB lands in Malaysia with a price tag of RM 418,888. 

Aside from debuting the top-dog performance versions of its C-Class and GLA, Mercedes-Benz Malaysia has recently also trotted out an updated iteration of its hottest GLB as well. This refreshed 35-badged AMG trim of its compact crossover comes shortly after the local launch of its facelifted common counterparts, and arrives fully imported from Germany with a price tag of RM 418,888. 

Now the key distinction between this newly-updated GLB 35 and its outgoing predecessor is with its powertrain, which now nets a 48 V mild-hybrid system in addition to its carry-over 2.0-litre boosted four-banger. This second-generation belt-driven starter generator (RSG) is quoted by its maker to provide temporary 10 kW (14 PS) power boost during hard acceleration, on top of the 306 PS and 400 Nm of torque already churned out by its ICE component. 

Interestingly enough however, this addition of this mild-hybrid system does somehow see for this updated GLB 35 to be slower to the century sprint than its outgoing predecessor (5.5 seconds vs 5.2 seconds). Its quoted V-Max is nevertheless maintained at a very Germanic 250 km/h, with this SUV incidentally maintaining the same eight-speed AMG Speedshift dual-clutch automatic transmission and AMG Performance 4MATIC variable all-wheel-drive system as before as well. 

Exterior-wise, new on this updated GLB 35 includes a restyled front apron and reworked signatures on its LED lights at either end. Rolling stock on this sporty SUV are to be a set of 20-inch AMG 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, which hide behind it red-painted brake calipers and AMG Ride Control suspension.

Moving on within meanwhile, the five-seat cabin of this GLB 35 (in place of the usual 7 found in the lesser variants) pairs the latest generation of AMG Performance steering wheel (wrapped in Nappa leather) with sports seats upholstered in ARTICO man-made leather/MICROCUT microfibre. An updated Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) is meanwhile also to be found running its dual 10.25-inch display, with the NTG7 gen infotainment system netting AMG-specific displays, but more importantly wireless smartphone connectivity.

Other interior accoutrements worth highlighting within includes a Burmester surround sound system, Star Pattern backlit that interacts with the configurable 64-colour ambient lighting, red seatbelts, Thermotronic dual-zone climate control with rear vents, a wireless charging pad, illuminated AMG door sills and AMG floor mats. 

The AMG GLB 35 4MATIC further comes with the Driving Assistance Package, bringing with it Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Blind Spot Assist, Active Brake Assist, and Exit Warning Assist. The next generation of the Parking Package is standard too, with it supporting parallel parking and offering 360° visualisation in camera-assisted parking using 3D images.

First local deliveries of the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC are currently set to commence from August, but those who are inclined to see this hot compact SUV for themselves can go down to Mercedes-Benz World at KL BASE this weekend (5th to 7th July)! This automotive event showcases the entire current Mercedes-Benz products available in Malaysia, with the attached runway at this event opening up the chance of taking some of these cars out for a cheeky flat-out test drive as well.

The Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC at a glance:

*On the road without Insurance. With 10% Sales Tax.