German luxury carmaker Mercedes-Benz has pulled the plug on its entry-level 7-seater SUV, the GLB. It was the brand’s only 7-seater SUV, except the GLS. Launched in 2022, it was also known as baby GLS, for an entry-level Mercedes 7-seater SUV, its price ranged from ₹68 lakh for the base model to ₹86 lakh (ex-showroom) for the top variant
What Went Wrong?
The Mercedes-Benz GLB was launched in India as a 7-seater luxury SUV, positioned between the GLA and GLC. Priced from around 65 lakhs (ex-showroom) due to its CBU (Completely built unit) import status, the GLB faced tough competition from locally assembled rivals like the Volvo XC60 and Range Rover Discovery Sport.
While it offered practicality and premium appeal, the GLB struggled to justify its price against better-equipped or more spacious alternatives. Sales remained limited during its two-year run, and with overlapping pricing close to the GLC, the GLB was quietly pulled from Mercedes-Benz India’s lineup. Though no official reason has been stated, low demand and pricing challenges appear to have led to its discontinuation.
Next-Gen Mercedes GLB Incoming
Mercedes is working on the next-generation model of the GLB, based on the same MMA platform as the 3rd-generation CLA that was just launched. It’ll come with cosmetic changes such as the new radiator grille (larger and “softer” in its lines) and the star graphic in the front and rear headlights. There are also new colour schemes, new alloy wheels, and presumably flush, electrically extendable door handles for an even more aerodynamic flank.
What Can You Buy Instead of the Mercedes GLB?
With the GLB now off the shelves, buyers don’t have many options in the 7-seater luxury SUV space. The Land Rover Discovery Sport remains a popular choice, offering strong brand appeal. For those wanting to stay within the Mercedes family, the all-electric EQB continues to be available. If you’re willing to stretch your budget just a bit, you could buy an Audi Q7, which is a far superior product.
