Hey, car fans! If you’ve been eyeing the Mercedes-Benz GLB, I’ve got some news that might hit hard. Mercedes-Benz has officially pulled the plug on its most affordable seven-seater SUV in India, the GLB, just over two years after its launch in December 2022. Word is, lackluster sales played a big role in this decision. Let’s unpack why the GLB didn’t quite catch on, what it offered, and what Mercedes-Benz has planned next for India’s luxury SUV market.
Why Was the Mercedes-Benz GLB Discontinued?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB was introduced as a stylish, compact seven-seater SUV, positioned as a “baby GLS” with a boxy design and a premium badge. Priced between ₹63.80 lakh and ₹69.80 lakh (ex-showroom), it was the most affordable three-row luxury SUV in India, undercutting rivals like the Land Rover Discovery Sport. Despite its unique positioning, the GLB struggled to find buyers. Here’s why:
- Low Sales Numbers: The GLB wasn’t a hot seller. Industry reports suggest it sold in “decent numbers” but never matched the popularity of Mercedes’ GLC or GLA models. Its niche as a compact seven-seater didn’t resonate widely enough in a market leaning toward larger, more powerful SUVs like the GLE or BMW X5.
- High Price for CBU Import: Imported as a Completely Built Unit (CBU) from Mexico, the GLB faced hefty taxes, driving up its cost. At ₹75.66 lakh to ₹80.85 lakh (on-road, Mumbai), it was a tough sell for an entry-level model, especially when buyers could opt for locally assembled alternatives.
- Impractical Third Row: While marketed as a seven-seater, the GLB’s third row was cramped, suitable mostly for kids. This limited its appeal for families wanting true three-row practicality, pushing buyers toward the GLA or GLC instead.
- Tough Competition: In its price range, the GLB faced stiff competition from the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Volvo XC60, and even Mercedes’ own GLC. Buyers often preferred these for better refinement or brand cachet.
Mercedes hasn’t explicitly confirmed the reasons, but posts on X and web reports point to “underwhelming sales” as the main culprit. All allocated units for India have been sold, and bookings are closed.
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What Was the Mercedes-Benz GLB All About?
Launched in December 2022 alongside its electric sibling, the EQB, the GLB aimed to bridge the gap between the entry-level GLA and the pricier GLC. Here’s a quick look at what it brought to the table:
Key Features
- Design: Boxy, rugged styling inspired byGLB 200 Progressive: 1.3L turbo-petrol (163 hp, 250 Nm) with a 7-speed DCT.
- Variants: Three trims—GLB 200 Progressive, 220d 4MATIC, and 220d AMG Line 4MATIC.
- Tech: Dual 10.25-inch screens, MBUX infotainment, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, panoramic sunroof, powered seats, and seven airbags.
- Safety: Five-star Euro NCAP rating, with ADAS features like active brake assist and parking assist.
Despite a mid-cycle refresh globally in March 2023 (new bumpers, grille, and mild-hybrid engines), the updated GLB never made it to India, which might’ve hurt its appeal further.
How Did the GLB Perform in India?
The GLB carved out a small niche for buyers wanting a compact luxury SUV with three rows, but it never became a bestseller like the GLC. Its rugged, GLS-like look and decent feature set were praised, but the cramped third row and high price held it back. Reviews noted its versatility but felt it lacked the refinement of pricier Mercedes models like the GLC or the cabin silence of rivals like the Audi Q5.
Mercedes sold all imported units, but the numbers weren’t enough to justify continued imports. Meanwhile, the electric EQB (priced at ₹72.20 lakh to ₹78.90 lakh) remains on sale, aligning with Mercedes’ push toward electrification.
What’s Next for Mercedes-Benz in India?
Mercedes hasn’t given up on the GLB name entirely. A next-gen GLB is in development, expected to debut globally in 2026 on the new MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, shared with the upcoming third-gen CLA. It’s unclear if this will be a facelift or a full redesign, and there’s no confirmed timeline for its India launch. Spy shots have surfaced online, hinting at a fresh look, but for now, India’s GLB chapter is closed.
In the meantime, Mercedes is focusing on its broader lineup, with strong sales in 2024 (18,123 units, up 10% year-on-year) driven by models like the C-Class, E-Class, GLC, and GLE. The brand is also expanding its EV portfolio with upcoming launches like the EQS SUV and EQA.
Should You Care About the GLB’s Exit?
If you were planning to snag a GLB, you’re out of luck unless you hunt for a used one (prices start around ₹40.60 lakh). The discontinuation stings for fans of compact three-row SUVs, as options in this luxury segment are slim. But if you’re after a Mercedes SUV, the GLA (more affordable) or GLC (more refined) are solid bets, while the EQB offers an electric alternative.
The GLB’s short run in India shows how tough the luxury market can be—price, practicality, and timing all have to align. For now, it’s farewell to the “baby GLS,” but I’m curious to see what Mercedes brings next. What do you think about the GLB’s exit? Would you pick the EQB or something else instead? Let me know!
