The 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 is another highly entertaining premium AMG vehicle
There are, or were, clearly two factions within Mercedes-AMG: Those who work with boosted 4-cylinder engines and those who don’t. Specifically, given the recent changes within AMG’s powertrain options, I’m speaking about 35 and 45 series models; they are mad good fun, and loaded with personality. And the GLB 35 is awesome.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
Even now, when I think about Mercedes-Benz, I imagine uptight German engineers who know nothing about fun. But, I always remind myself that AMG, on the other hand, are the creators of some of the wildest cars and SUVs on the road today. Over the last few years, the A 35 and CLA 45 stand out as being the most fizz-inducing rides I’ve had the pleasure of driving. And I was delighted that the GLB 35 is just as exciting.
To start, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is the brand’s most enticing SUV on this side of the OE badass G-Class. Tragically, but possibly by design, it’s also the least cherished by consumers who prefer a lesser GLA, more forgettable GLC, or bloated GLE. As mean as this may read, the point is that the GLB is nearly exotic compared to the three hyper-common SUVs. Adding three of the fastest letters in the alphabet ahead of GLB simply signifies that this is a future appreciating classic.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
Most premium automakers use a series of numbers following a model name to disclose power numbers. Now, although “35” is the lowest on the AMG totem pole, it may very well be the most entertaining. The turbocharged 2.0-litre 4-cylinder produces a beyond-satisfying 302hp at 5,800 rpm and 295 lb.-ft. of torque between 3,000 and 4,000 rpm. The power is enough to send the 4,000lb SUV to 100km/h from a standstill in only 5.3 seconds meaning it’ll keep up with the more powerful Audi SQ5, but there’s something to keep in mind when stop-light racing.
The standard AMG Speedshift DCT 8-speed dual-clutch transmission, attached to the included AMG Performance 4MATIC AWD, is painstakingly slow to engage in any setting other than Sport. Generally, dual-clutch transmissions default to self-preservation above all, meaning that they’ll give the clutches all the time in the world to gently embrace the flywheel. Under normal circumstances, drivers can and do adapt but in my opinion, it’s unacceptable for an AMG.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
This is one of the main reasons why configuring the Individual drive mode is a must. With the Drive set in Sport, not only is throttle response sharper but the transmission will be quicker to activate. The change in overall engine transmission behaviour is nothing short of remarkable. The other goal behind focusing on the Individual drive mode is setting the adjustable dampers to Comfort. In Sport or Dynamic, only a perfectly smooth SoCal road will do.
Once arranged in this way, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35’s best personality shines through. The standard AMG sports exhaust system braaaps and fraaaps under decent load, enhancing the small sports SUV’s driving experience. The 2.0T’s torque is strong and sustained, and perfectly in tune with the now properly-adjusted Speedshift transmission. The AMG GLB now feels poised and ready to show its true colours.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
The SUV’s steering is involving, and responsive, much like the chassis. There’s a fizz and character to the experience. From the helm, the GLB 35 is tightly wound but not oppressively so with the dampers in comfort – it wants to be driven hard and knows how to handle itself – and the brakes are extremely strong.
In AMG guise, the small SUV lets its hair down. Out of the box, the GLB 250 is a handsome small vehicle but once Affalterbach has had it way with it, it becomes furiously good-looking. Included are full AMG body styling and 19-inch wheels. My tester however is visually sharper painted Galaxy blue and sporting the optional 21-inch wheels, and the AMG Night Package. These options positively impact the small SUV’s on-road presence for the better.
As tested, this 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 retailed for roughly $74,000, which is somewhat shocking. The cabin features the still impressive double 10.25-inch screens, the ultra-cool vents, and numerous other elements. The front seats are heated, the driver’s is power operated, it comes with keyless start, and that’s about it. The Premium package is a must if you want Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, keyless entry, or basically most of the features you’ll get in a near-basic Hyundai Tucson including navigation, which is also an option here. The nice additions included in the Galaxy Blue GLB 35 were the AMG Driver’s package that throws in an AMG Performance steering wheel wrapped in Nappa/DINAMICA materials.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
About space, the Mercedes-Benz GLB is at least as roomy as the GLC. What’s more, only 20mm separates the two in overall length, the GLC being longer, but the GLB offers up far more boot volume to the tune of 700 litres versus 550.
The options built into the tester are nearly all must-haves in 2022 (now 2023). And even at around $70,000, the GLB 35 is priced on par with the AMG GLC 43 which, for most, is a more premium product, though it isn’t. The pricing debate continues when compared to the Audi SQ5 and BMW X3 M40i, which present as “more grownup” and high class.
Basically, the 2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 does not fit the premium performance SUV mold because it has so much more personality than all the other mentioned SUVs. And this is why it’s so great.
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
2022 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 | Photo: Matt St-Pierre
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