KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Mercedes-Benz has officially discontinued the GLB in India, just over two years after its launch in 2022.
- Despite offering a 7-seater layout and luxury features, the GLB struggled due to high pricing, market overlap with GLC, and limited practicality of the third row
In a surprising move, Mercedes-Benz India has decided to discontinue the GLB. This was launched just a few years ago, expected to be a game changer in the segment. It offers a blend of luxury with a 7-seat capacity, but despite this, it seems that GLB couldn't make a place in the highly competitive market. So, what led to GLB's departure from India? And what does it mean for Mercedes-Benz's strategy to move forward in India? Let's dive deeper into the details. Before that, make sure to join the 91Wheels WhatsApp community to never miss out on any automotive updates.
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A Brief To Mercedes-Benz GLB
Launched back in December 2022, GLB was the brand's entry-level luxury SUV. It was an attractive option for those looking for a 7-seater compact SUV, which is rare in the segment. Meanwhile, this SUV was available with two engine options: a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine and a 2.0-litre diesel unit. The petrol unit is paired with a 7-speed DCT, and the diesel unit is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Inside, it featured the MBUX infotainment system, a 10.25-inch instrument cluster, adaptive cruise control, parking assist, and level 2 ADAS.
Discontinued In India
Despite offering an impressive feature set, it struggled to gain a fan base among the audience. Mercedes-Benz has discontinued the GLB, and it is no longer available on the OEM site, leaving enthusiasts and aficionados scratching their heads. Several key factors have contributed to it. First and foremost, it was considered overpriced when compared to its rivals. The Mercedes GLC offers a better value than the GLB. Additionally, the SUV's positioning between the GLA and GLC created confusion among buyers, with many preferring to stretch their budget slightly for the more refined and spacious GLC.
Lastly, the Indian buyers are shifting towards EVs and more powerful, feature-loaded SUVs. The GLB lacked a strong identity to stand out in an increasingly competitive market. The luxury car manufacturer isn't going anywhere. They are continuously expanding their portfolio with models like GLA, GLC, GLS, EQB and EQS. However, there's an increase in demand for electric vehicles, hence they're investing heavily in EVs like EQB and EQS.
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Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz GLB had the potential to fill a unique space in Indias luxury SUV segment, but its high price tag and unclear positioning made it a tough sell. As consumer preferences shift toward more spacious, tech-rich SUVs and EVs, the GLB simply couldn't keep up. While it exits quietly, Mercedes-Benz continues to charge ahead with a strong lineup and a future-focused EV strategy.
