It's been only a few months since the Mercedes-Benz GLB went into production and the German firm already launched a higher-performance model. Called the Mercedes-AMG GLB35, this crossover slots above the standard model and below the upcoming AMG GLB45. Like all 35-series models, it looks slightly sportier than the base version and brings extra power and performance to the table. Let's find out more about that below.

The Mercedes-AMG GLB35 is sportier but not overly aggressive

While 45-series models are notably more aggressive than the vehicles they're based on, the GLB35 is rather mild. Design-wise, it's pretty much based on the AMG Line, so it's not very different than the regular GLB fitted with the same package. But it comes with a few features that make it stand out.

Arguably the most important addition is the AMG radiator grille with vertical bars and "AMG" badge. The "Panamericana" grille wasn't offered on 35-series models before, so it basically debuted on the GLB35. The black surrounds around the fake side bumper vents are identical to the regular GLB, but the center intake has different trim, while the splitter is a bit bigger.

The SUV's profile is virtually unchanged, but Mercedes added sportier AMG wheels finished in gray. The standard rollers measure 19 inches, but you can order 20- and 21-inch wheels off the options list. Look close enough and you'll notice that the GLB35 sits a tad closer to the ground.

In the rear, the GLB35 features only three unique elements. The spoiler atop the tailgate is slightly bigger, while the exhaust pipes mounted in the chrome piece at the bottom of the bumper are round instead of oval. The "AMG" and "GLB35" badges mounted above the taillights round off the rear end.

If you want to customize the GLB35 a bit, you can order the AMG Night package, which adds the high-gloss black front splitter and rear apron and black chrome-plated exhaust pipes.

All told, the GLB35 is a regular GLB with the AMG Line package, bigger wheels, and a "Panamericana" grille.

The Mercedes-AMG GLB35 has a fancy and practical interior

Again, you won't be able to tell the regular GLB and the GLB35 apart unless you look into the details, but Mercedes made sure that the upgrade is worthy of the premium. This trim comes with sports seats wrapped in black Artico leather and Dinamica microfiber, combined with red double stitching and red seat belts. If you don't fancy this combination, you can go with two optional leather packages. One such choices brings together two-tone upholstery in red and black and top stitching on the beltline and dashboard.

Just like the GLB, the GLB35 can be ordered with a third-row seat option that adds two individual seats and increase seating capacity to seven. The third-row seats can be folded flat for increased cargo capacity, but luggage room will also suffer if you add this option. In case you go with the two additional seats, Mercedes will add convenience features such as two cup holders between the seats and two stowage compartments with a rubberized insert on the left and right in the load compartment, each with a USB-C port.

Luggage capacity remains unchanged in the AMG model. In five-seat configuration, the GLB35 can swallow up to 20 cubic feet of luggage, a 3.4-cubic-foot increase over the BMW X2. Fold the second-row seats and space increases to 62 cubic feet, 11.9 more than the BMW X2.

The Mercedes-AMG GLB35 is the most powerful GLB yet!

Mercedes brought the GLB to the U.S. with a single gasoline engine, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder unit rated at 221 horsepower and 228 pound-feet of torque. The GLB35 features a similar engine, but fitted with a twin-scroll turbocharger. As a result, it cranks out more oomph. This GLB35 is rated at 306 horsepower and 295 pound-feet, exactly 85 horsepower and 67 pound-feet more than the regular GLB.

This specific trim competes with the BMW X2 M35i. Also powered by a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder, the Bimmer comes with 302 horsepower and 332 pound-feet of torque. This means the GLB35 has an extra four horsepower, but suffers from a 37-pound-foot deficit.

As far as performance goes, the GLB35 needs 5.1 seconds to hit 60 mph. That's 1.8 seconds quicker than the regular GLB. Compared to the BMW X2 M35i, the Merc is two tenths slower, since the Bimmer hits 60 mph in 4.9 seconds.

The four-banger mates to an eight-speed, AMG Speedshift dual-clutch transmission that enables faster shifts for sporty driving. For full sprint potential, the GLB35 is fitted with a Race Start function that provides higher engine rpm and optimized shift points. The performance-oriented all-wheel-drive system is also responsible for the GLB35's superior performance. This 4Matic system features a multi-disc clutch that allows a variable torque split that ranges from purely front-wheel drive to a 50:50 percent distribution to the front and rear axle.

2020 Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 Specs