Hello, car lovers! If you’ve been keeping an eye on the luxury SUV market in India, you might have noticed some big news: the Mercedes GLB has been discontinued. Launched with much excitement in December 2022, this stylish seven-seater SUV was Mercedes-Benz’s most affordable option in its luxury lineup. But after just over two years, the German automaker has pulled it from the Indian market. This decision has left many wondering why it happened and what’s coming next. This detailed article covers everything about the Mercedes GLB’s discontinuation in India—its original price, key features, the reasons behind the move, and what the future might hold. Let’s dive in and explore this surprising turn of events!
What Was the Mercedes GLB All About?
The Mercedes GLB was a special addition to the luxury SUV world, offering a rare combination of style, space, and affordability. Positioned between the smaller GLA and the larger GLC, it was designed as a compact seven-seater, making it perfect for small families or those who needed extra seating without jumping to a full-size SUV like the GLS. Mercedes brought the GLB to India as a fully built unit (CBU) from its plant in Mexico, giving it an exclusive feel right from the start.
Unlike many luxury SUVs that focus only on two rows, the GLB stood out with its third row, though it was best suited for kids or short trips. It competed with models like the Land Rover Discovery Sport and Audi Q7, offering a premium badge at a lower price point. With its boxy, rugged design and a host of modern features, the GLB aimed to attract buyers looking for practicality with a touch of luxury. Let’s take a closer look at what made this SUV unique before its discontinuation.
Original Price of the Mercedes GLB in India
When the Mercedes GLB hit the Indian market in December 2022, it came with a price tag that made it the most budget-friendly seven-seater luxury SUV from the brand. The ex-showroom price ranged from ₹63.80 lakh to ₹69.80 lakh, depending on the variant. After adding taxes, insurance, and registration, the on-road price in major cities like Delhi or Mumbai typically fell between ₹74 lakh and ₹82 lakh. This pricing undercut competitors like the Land Rover Discovery Sport (₹65 lakh to ₹77 lakh) by a margin of ₹1.6 lakh to ₹7.6 lakh, making it an attractive option for luxury car buyers.
The GLB was available in three variants: the GLB 200 Progressive, GLB 220d 4MATIC, and GLB 220d AMG Line 4MATIC. The base GLB 200 Progressive started at ₹63.80 lakh, while the top-end GLB 220d AMG Line 4MATIC reached ₹69.80 lakh. Despite its competitive pricing, the GLB’s imported status meant higher costs compared to locally assembled models, which might have influenced its market performance. Now that it’s discontinued, used GLB models are available starting at around ₹40.60 lakh, offering a chance for buyers to grab a deal.
Design and Features: A Blend of Style and Comfort
The Mercedes GLB had a design that turned heads with its bold, boxy shape, reminiscent of the larger GLS. Its upright front grille, sharp LED headlights, and squared-off wheel arches gave it a strong road presence. The side profile featured a unique kink near the C-pillar, adding a sporty touch, while the rear boasted split LED taillights and a rugged bumper. Available in colors like Patagonia Red Metallic, Cosmic Black, and Polar White, it offered a variety of stylish options to suit different tastes.
Inside, the GLB was a haven of luxury and technology. The cabin featured two 10.25-inch displays—one for the driver’s instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system—running the latest MBUX interface. This system supported wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, making it easy to stay connected. Other highlights included a panoramic sunroof, 64-color ambient lighting, powered front seats with memory function, and a wireless charger. The seven-seat layout provided decent space for the first two rows, though the third row was more suited for children or occasional use, with about 130 liters of boot space when all seats were up.
Safety was a priority, with seven airbags, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and advanced driver-assistance features like active brake assist and parking assist. The 2019 Euro NCAP crash test gave it a five-star safety rating, adding to its appeal. These features made the GLB a practical yet premium choice, though its discontinuation raises questions about its market fit.
Engine and Performance: Power Under the Hood
The Mercedes GLB offered two engine options to cater to different preferences. The GLB 200 Progressive came with a 1.3-litre turbo-petrol engine, producing 163 horsepower and 250 Nm of torque. This engine was paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, sending power to the front wheels only. It delivered a smooth ride for city driving, with an ARAI-certified mileage of around 16 km/l, though real-world figures might hover closer to 12-14 km/l.
The diesel variants, GLB 220d 4MATIC and GLB 220d AMG Line 4MATIC, featured a 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engine generating 190 horsepower and 400 Nm of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with Mercedes’ 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system, these models offered better grip and performance, especially on highways or light off-road conditions. The mileage for the diesel variants was also rated at 16 km/l by ARAI, with real-world efficiency around 14-16 km/l. The GLB’s handling was praised for its balance, though its boxy shape made it less agile than smaller SUVs like the GLA.
Why Was the Mercedes GLB Discontinued in India?
The discontinuation of the Mercedes GLB in India, announced in April 2025, has sparked curiosity among car enthusiasts. The primary reason appears to be the exhaustion of allocated units. Since the GLB was imported as a CBU from Mexico, Mercedes-Benz brought a limited number of vehicles to India. With all units sold out, the company decided to halt sales rather than import more, especially given the model’s lukewarm sales performance.
Despite its unique positioning as an affordable seven-seater luxury SUV, the GLB didn’t capture a large audience. Industry experts suggest that its sales were modest compared to the more popular GLC, which has been a bestseller for Mercedes in India. The GLB’s third row, while a highlight, was often criticized as cramped, limiting its appeal for families needing regular use of all seven seats. Additionally, the high import costs and lack of a local assembly option may have made it less competitive against rivals with more flexible pricing.
Another factor could be Mercedes’ shift toward electrification. The EQB, the electric version of the GLB, continues to be on sale, priced between ₹72.20 lakh and ₹78.90 lakh. This suggests a strategic pivot toward electric vehicles (EVs), aligning with global trends and India’s growing EV market. The 2023 facelift, which introduced 48V mild-hybrid technology globally, didn’t reach India, possibly indicating a lack of demand for further investment in the GLB’s current form.
Market Performance: How Did the GLB Fare in India?
Launched in December 2022, the Mercedes GLB was on sale for just over two years before its discontinuation. While exact sales figures aren’t publicly detailed, reports indicate it sold in “decent numbers” but never matched the success of the GLC. Its boxy design and third-row seating attracted a niche group of buyers looking for a compact luxury SUV with extra space, but it struggled to compete with more established models like the BMW X3 or Audi Q5.
The GLB’s pricing gave it an edge over the Land Rover Discovery Sport, but its imported status and limited availability may have deterred buyers. Some appreciated its rugged styling and premium interior, while others found the third row impractical. Social media sentiment, especially on platforms like X, shows mixed feelings—some fans lament its exit, while others speculate it was inevitable given the slow sales. Mercedes seemed confident in its potential, but the market didn’t fully embrace it as hoped.
What’s Next for the Mercedes GLB in India?
While the current GLB has been discontinued, Mercedes-Benz has hinted at a future for the model in India. The company has confirmed that a new GLB is in development, though it’s unclear whether this refers to a mid-life facelift or a second-generation model. Spy shots of a next-gen GLB have surfaced online, suggesting a global debut in 2026. This new version is expected to use Mercedes’ advanced MMA (Mercedes Modular Architecture) platform, the same one supporting the upcoming third-gen CLA, set to launch in India by late 2025.
The new GLB could bring updated styling, improved interior space, and possibly hybrid or electric powertrains to align with Mercedes’ electrification goals. If locally assembled, it might also see a more competitive price, addressing one of the original model’s drawbacks. For now, the EQB remains the brand’s entry-level seven-seater option, but the return of a refreshed GLB could rekindle interest in this segment. Indian buyers will need to wait for official announcements to see what’s in store.
Comparing the GLB to Its Rivals
The Mercedes GLB entered a competitive luxury SUV market in India, facing off against models like the BMW X3, Audi Q5, Volvo XC60, and Land Rover Discovery Sport. Priced between ₹63.80 lakh and ₹69.80 lakh, it was cheaper than the BMW X3 (₹68 lakh onwards) and Audi Q5 (₹65 lakh onwards), but its seven-seat layout gave it an edge over the five-seat X3 and Q5. However, the Discovery Sport, with a similar seven-seat option, offered a lower starting price of ₹65 lakh, though its luxury credentials were slightly less premium.
The GLB’s strengths included its spacious first two rows, advanced tech, and safety features, but its cramped third row and imported cost put it at a disadvantage. The Volvo XC60, priced around ₹68 lakh, offered a more refined ride but lacked the third row. The GLB’s discontinuation might reflect its struggle to carve a distinct niche against these rivals, especially with the EQB now filling the electric luxury SUV space.
Pros and Cons of the Mercedes GLB
Pros:
- Unique Design: Its boxy, rugged look stood out in the luxury SUV segment.
- Practical Seating: Seven seats offered versatility for small families.
- Premium Features: MBUX system, panoramic sunroof, and safety tech were highlights.
- Competitive Price: Lower than many rivals at launch.
Cons:
- Cramped Third Row: Limited space for adults or long trips.
- Imported Costs: High price due to CBU status.
- Low Sales: Didn’t meet expected demand in India.
- No Facelift: Missed out on 2023 updates available globally.
These pros and cons highlight why the GLB had potential but ultimately faced challenges in the Indian market.
Impact on Indian Luxury Car Buyers
The discontinuation of the Mercedes GLB leaves a gap in the entry-level seven-seater luxury SUV category in India. Buyers who loved its blend of practicality and premium branding now have fewer options. The EQB, starting at ₹72.20 lakh, is the closest alternative, but its electric nature and higher price might not suit everyone. Other seven-seater options like the Land Rover Discovery Sport or the Toyota Fortuner (though less luxurious) become more relevant, though they don’t match the GLB’s unique positioning.
For Mercedes fans, the brand’s focus on the EQB and upcoming models like the new GLA or GLC might shift preferences. The used GLB market could see a surge, offering a chance for buyers to own this discontinued model at a discount. This change reflects broader trends in India, where luxury buyers are increasingly eyeing EVs and locally assembled vehicles for better value.
Final Thoughts: What Does the Future Hold?
The Mercedes GLB’s discontinuation in India, confirmed in April 2025, marks the end of a short but notable chapter for the brand. Priced between ₹63.80 lakh and ₹69.80 lakh at launch, it offered a compelling package with its seven-seat layout, premium features, and stylish design. However, limited sales, high import costs, and a shift toward electrification likely led to its exit. With all allocated units sold, the GLB’s on-road price of up to ₹82 lakh is now a memory for new buyers.
Looking ahead, Mercedes has promised a new GLB, potentially arriving in 2026 with the MMA platform. This could bring fresh features, better pricing if locally made, and a stronger market fit. Until then, the EQB remains a viable option, while used GLB models offer a last chance to own this SUV. For Indian car enthusiasts, this development signals an evolving luxury market—stay tuned for what Mercedes brings next!