Mercedes-Benz GLB or GLA: two good choices for different customers

If you've made the choice to buy a Mercedes-Benz SUV, you've made a decision that will make your life better. Getting on the road with a Mercedes-Benz product is an experience in itself and doing it every day makes life more interesting.

Now, there's no shortage of choices. Let's take a look at what's available right off the bat with two vehicles that each have their own qualities, the GLA and GLB models. Each has everything you need, but their differences mean that they are aimed at buyers who may not have the same needs.

Let's take a look.

Similarities?

Of course, there are many similarities between the two models. This is the case for the interior layout, the dashboard display, the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system, as well as the incredible quality found on board; it holds true for the materials and the assembly quality.

This is also the case for the first two powertrains offered. The 250 models wake up to the sound of a 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine (221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque). The AMG 35 models get a more powerful version of this powertrain, with 302 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque.

And the enjoyment you get from either model is very similar; there's something unique and special about being behind the wheel of a Mercedes-Benz model on a daily basis.

The differences

As for the differences, there is nothing negative about them, but they will make you recognize yourself in one or the other model.

As for power, if the numbers given earlier don't light you up enough, you'll find something to suit your needs with the GLA model, because it's also offered in an AMG 45 version. That's 382 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. The GLB does not offer this version of the powertrain.

Inside, however, the GLB offers more versatility. First, with the ability to add a third row for those times when you need to invite more people on board. Then, with a more generous cargo volume. Roughly speaking, we're talking 765 and 1755 liters behind the second and first rows, respectively. With the GLA, it's more limited to 435 and 1430 liters, in order.

If you need that much space, go with the GLB. If you're not carrying anything other than groceries, the GLA will do the job too.

Then, if you like it all, there's the question of style; do you like a GLA or a GLB more?

Come to the dealership and test drive one. It will help you decide.