2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA- and GLB-Class First Look: Mild Updates, Newly Mild Hybrids

In the realm of subcompact SUVs, few really live up to the utility side of the sport-utility acronym and most are essentially lifted hatchbacks that offer all-wheel drive. Mercedes-Benz’s mechanically similar GLA- and GLB-Class duo are both rather handsomely designed luxury mini-utes that can actually fit human adults in the rear seats—utility!—and the GLB even offers a vestigial third-row seat. For 2024, Mercedes has thrown small updates at these crossovers, with the headline change being the addition of Benz’s “RSG boost” mild hybrid engine tech.

Beyond the RSG stuff, changes to the GLA (for reference, the rounder-looking one) and and GLB (the boxier model) are minor, so their attractive mini-Benz looks carry over. The GLA gets a new grille, plus a set of high-performance LED headlights that improve forward visibility during the night. The changes to the hood are somewhat hard to tell, but there is now a small bulge that may have been required for the new RSG mild hybrid system, or is just there for looks.

The 2024 GLB-class compact luxury SUV, the more traditionally shaped of the two, gets a similar-looking grille, a new set of LED tail lights, and new wheel designs in both 18- and 20- inch sizes and a new paint option for both the GLA and GLB in Spectral Blue Metallic.

Inside both crossovers, the interiors have benefited from Mercedes’ latest steering wheel design, and a pair of 10.25-inch displays are used for the instrument panel and the infotainment display, which features the latest version of the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Both GLA and GLB customers can option for the AMG Line interior for the first time, which includes a heated version of the wheel. Standard features like High Beam Assist, a parking package with a 360-degree-view camera system and 3D images, mirror package, and Keyless GO package go along with upgraded standard ADAS technologies like lane keep assist with active steering. A Burmester with Dolby Atmos surround sound system is optional.

So, about that RSG mild-hybrid system, which in these SUVs’ case is fitted to Benz’s 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4. This 48-volt system uses an integrated starter-generator motor on the engine’s accessory belt drive to not only start the engine, but also provide a 13-hp boost at low engine speeds; total output remains at 221 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. It will also allow the GLA and GLB to utilize coasting mode, where under constant speed, the engine will turn off while the vehicle “coasts;” the RSG will drive and then restart the engine when needed again. That motor/generator also is capable of recuperating energy that can be used to recharge both the 48-volt and 12-volt accessory battery systems at the same time. Expect to see the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA250 and all-wheel-drive GLA250 4Matic and the GLB250 and GLA250 4Matic in dealers later in 2023.

AMG Goes Hybrid, but the 45s Are Gone

Along with the refreshed GLA250 and GLB250 models are their AMG variants, the GLA35 and GLB35. Both see similar external and internal updates and upgrades as the standard versions, but with the expected AMG twist: sporty addenda, firmer suspension tuning, more power. For the first time, each wears the AMG crest on its hood—that’s in addition to the large grille stars—just like bigger AMGs.

The 35s’ 2.0-liter turbocharged I-4 gets a power boost to 302 hp, which includes the 13-hp boost from the RSG. This power is then sent through the AMG Speedshift dual-clutch automatic transmission and the AMG Performance version of the 4Matic AWD system to all four tires. You’ll also find AMG Drive Unit buttons on the steering wheel and AMG-specific screens on the MBUX infotainment screens, but you’ll still get the wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionality as standard. The AMGs’ interiors also get a higher-performance USB charging port as well as an additional USB C port. The standard safety and convenience features from the GLA and GLB will also be found in the AMG GLA35 and GLB35, including the parking package with its 360-degree camera and 3D imaging system.

If you’re wondering why we haven’t mentioned the more powerful AMG GLA45 and GLB45, that’s because they aren’t coming to the U.S. Mercedes explained that the only AMG models due to arrive in 2023 for the GLA and GLB lines are the 35s. Just as with the standard luxury crossovers, the AMG versions will arrive at your local Mercedes Benz dealership later in 2023.

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