Having debuted back in 2020, Mercedes’ seven-seat compact crossover is ready for a mid-cycle refresh and the latest spy photos give us the best clues yet as to what to expect. Previous spy shots showed a test vehicle in motion, but this time, a photographer in Europe caught the Mercedes at low speed and even stopped in a snowy parking lot. Surprisingly, in an age of boring black, white, or grey test vehicles, this facelifted GLB stands out in the optional 2023 “Rose Gold Metallic” hue.
The GLB's New Front Fascia
Based on what we can see here, the front end seems to be smoother overall, with fewer angular lines in the bumper and a grille that is perhaps a bit less recessed. Initially, the headlights seem smaller, but upon closer inspection, we think that’s just an optical illusion caused by the camouflage wrap. We’ll go out on a limb to say that the headlights will be approximately the same size and shape as before, but with new internal graphics. Likewise, the round fog lights look extremely similar, if not identical to the current model.
Given the very low amount of camouflage on the rear of the test GLB, it’s safe to assume that changes there will be limited to new taillights. A classic method to update the overall appearance of any vehicle is to change the wheels, so there’s little doubt that a few new wheel designs will also be in the mix for 2024. The slightly diminutive black wheel/tire combo on the prototype is no doubt snow tires for winter driving only, so I wouldn’t read too much into that particular set of running stock going on production models.
Will The Interior Change?
Unfortunately, our photographer wasn’t able to grab any images of the interior. However, we can observe through the windows that the chrome rounded dash vents seem identical to the current model, so it’s doubtful that anything too drastic is happening inside the cabin.
This next part is purely speculation, but it does seem like Mercedes is moving away from the touchpad in the center console. So that is something that could be deleted as we have seen on the updated A-Class, and a new center console storage system implemented. Finally, an update to the MBUX infotainment system should round out the freshening up of the interior.
Under The Hood Of The 2024 GLB
Under the hood, it’s been highly speculated that Mercedes’ 48-volt “EQ Boost” mild-hybrid system will make its GLB debut in the facelifted guise. As per Mercedes,
“Sufficient drive power can be added to the system during the time it takes for the turbo to spool up. The EAC essentially fills the gap of time it takes for the turbo to spool up. This supercharged - turbocharged scheme provides an instantaneous and smooth acceleration characteristic not found in other vehicles.”
That’s an eloquent way of saying that it’ll eliminate “turbo lag”, but besides that, the mild-hybrid is an important stepping stone in automakers’ quests to electrify their lineups.
Aside from the availability of EQ Boost, we aren't expecting any significant powertrain changes to accompany the mid-cycle refresh. In North America, the current GLB-Class is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine making 221 horsepower, driving the front wheels through an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. All-wheel drive is also available on the GLB 250 4Matic, as well as an AMG model that boasts 302 horsepower. The facelifted AMG version of the GLB has already been spotted in spy shots, so we know for sure that the hotter version will carry on into 2024.
What About The EQB EV?
Some readers will notice that we’ve avoided discussing the GLB’s all-electric sibling, the EQB. And rightly so, since it’s technically an entirely different model. Also, since the EQB’s front fascia and interior already deviate from that of the internal combustion GLBs, it stands to reason that the EQB will be updated separately at a later date, or perhaps not at all.
So when can we expect to see the 2024 GLB sans camouflage? The updated baby Benz is expected to debut sometime after the closely-related A-Class models, the CLA and GLA, which is appropriate because it was the last of the bunch to launch back in 2019. Our best guess right now is the Summer of 2023, although Mercedes could certainly surprise us with an earlier introduction. Looking at these photos, it certainly seems ready for the road right now.