Cars

The All-New 2026 Mercedes GLB: A Comprehensive Evolution

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLB marks a significant transformation for the compact SUV segment, blending an iconic design with modern advancements in electrification and interior technology. This comprehensive overview delves into the vehicle's expanded dimensions, innovative cabin features, and robust powertrain options, highlighting how Mercedes-Benz is pushing boundaries to offer a luxurious yet practical solution for families and technology enthusiasts alike.

Experience the Future of Family SUVs: Versatility Meets Luxury

Revitalizing the Compact SUV: The Next Generation GLB Emerges

Mercedes-Benz continues its strategy of updating its smaller vehicle line-up, following the refreshed CLA sedan and estate models with the highly anticipated second-generation GLB. This new iteration retains the beloved boxy silhouette reminiscent of the classic GLK, while embracing a complete overhaul of its underlying structure and features. A defining characteristic of the new GLB is the ubiquitous presence of the three-pointed star emblem, integrated subtly throughout the vehicle, from its exterior design elements to the intricate interior details, symbolizing a renewed focus on brand identity and luxury.

Enhanced Dimensions and Seating Capacity: A Roomier Ride

Mirroring the evolution seen in the CLA, the electric variant of the GLB takes center stage, now known as the GLB with EQ Technology. This new model surpasses its predecessor, the EQB, in size, pushing the boundaries of what is considered a 'compact' vehicle. The chassis has been lengthened by 48 millimeters to 4732 mm and widened by 27 mm to 1861 mm. Despite a slight reduction in height by 14 mm to 1687 mm, the wheelbase has been extended by 60 mm to 2889 mm, resulting in enhanced interior space. This growth translates into improved headroom and legroom across all rows, comfortably accommodating adults up to 1.71 meters tall in the third row, positioning the GLB as a unique seven-seater electric option in its class.

Sophisticated Design and Interior Innovation: A Galaxy of Technology

Visually, the electric and conventional gasoline-powered GLB models are designed to be nearly indistinguishable, a deliberate move by Mercedes-Benz to unify its design language across powertrain types. Exterior distinctions are minimal, primarily limited to variations in grille design. The vehicle introduces sleek flush door handles, contributing to improved aerodynamic efficiency. Inside, the cabin is a technological marvel, featuring a striking triple-screen setup: a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14-inch central infotainment display, and an additional 14-inch screen for the front passenger. Physical shortcut buttons remain below the central air vents for essential controls. A highlight of the interior is the panoramic glass roof, illuminated with up to 158 stars, capable of shifting between opaque and transparent states at the touch of a button.

Versatile Storage Solutions: Practicality Meets Luxury

The new GLB offers impressive cargo versatility. The front trunk, or 'frunk,' provides 127 liters of storage, slightly more than the CLA, thanks to a taller front profile. For the five-seat configuration, the rear cargo area boasts a generous 540 liters of space. In the seven-seat variant, this capacity adjusts to 480 liters. With the rear seats folded down, these figures expand significantly to 1,715 liters and 1,605 liters, respectively, offering ample room for luggage and gear.

Powerful Electric Performance and Charging Capabilities: Dynamic Driving

The GLB lineup includes the GLB 250+ with EQ Technology as the entry-level electric model, featuring a single motor that delivers 268 horsepower and 247 lb-ft (335 Nm) of torque, achieving 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.4 seconds. For those seeking more power, the GLB 350 4Matic with EQ Technology incorporates dual motors, producing a combined 349 horsepower and 380 lb-ft (515 Nm) of torque, reducing the sprint time to 5.5 seconds. Both electric models have an electronically limited top speed of 130 mph (210 km/h). All electric GLB versions are equipped with an 85-kWh battery. The single-motor model offers a WLTP range of up to 631 kilometers, while the dual-motor version provides up to 614 km. Fast charging is impressive, with a 10-minute charge at 320 kW adding 260 kilometers of range.

Market Availability and Future Prospects: Expanding the Lineup

The electric GLB is currently available for pre-order in Germany, with deliveries expected in the spring. Pricing begins at €59,048 for the single-motor variant, increasing to €62,178 for the 4Matic all-wheel-drive model. Mercedes-Benz also plans to introduce a more affordable electric GLB and a mild-hybrid version featuring a 1.5-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, both slated for release around 2026, further diversifying the GLB's appeal to a wider market.

Smart's New #6 Sedan: A Giant Leap in Size and Hybrid Technology

Smart, a brand synonymous with compact urban vehicles, has unveiled its most substantial creation yet: the #6 sedan. This new plug-in hybrid model represents a significant departure from Smart's traditional offerings, boasting dimensions that would rival many mid-size luxury cars. Its introduction highlights the brand's transformation following its 2019 joint venture with Geely, signaling a strategic shift towards larger, more versatile vehicles with advanced powertrain technologies.

The #6 sedan stands at an impressive 4,906 millimeters (193.1 inches) in length, making it the largest vehicle ever produced by Smart. To put this into perspective, it's roughly the same size as a classic BMW 7 Series E32 and nearly twice the length of two original Smart ForTwo city cars. This considerable increase in size challenges the perception of Smart as exclusively a manufacturer of small, urban-friendly cars.

Under the hood, the #6 features a plug-in hybrid system, combining a 1.5-liter combustion engine with an electric motor. While specific power output details for each component were not fully disclosed, the combined system is rated at a robust 429 horsepower. This powertrain choice is a clear indication of Smart's commitment to hybrid technology, following the introduction of its first plug-in hybrid in the #5 crossover earlier in 2024.

The vehicle's generous dimensions are further emphasized by its substantial 2,926-millimeter (115.1-inch) wheelbase, contributing to what is expected to be a spacious interior. The #6 measures 1,922 millimeters (75.6 inches) wide and 1,508 millimeters (59.3 inches) tall. It rides on striking 20-inch wheels, which, despite their intricate design, may pose a challenge for maintenance. Additional features include an active rear spoiler and a roof-mounted LiDAR system, underscoring the vehicle's advanced technological integration.

Smart claims an impressive total driving range of 1,810 kilometers (1,125 miles) for the #6 with a full tank and a fully charged battery. However, it's important to note that this figure is based on the CLTC test cycle, which is known for its more optimistic range estimations compared to other global standards. When operating solely on electric power, the car is said to achieve 285 kilometers (177 miles) on a single charge. Furthermore, its fuel consumption as a plug-in hybrid is projected to be 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers (60 miles per gallon), an efficient figure for a vehicle of this size and power.

Although interior images have yet to be released, it is highly probable that the #6 will feature a digital-heavy cabin, with multiple large screens dominating the dashboard. This design trend is prevalent in the Chinese market, where consumers often favor extensive digital displays over traditional physical controls. This shift is influencing global automotive design, as legacy manufacturers adapt to compete with innovative newcomers from China.

The #6 sedan is slated for release in China next year, and current indications suggest it will primarily remain a local market product. Meanwhile, Smart is also focusing on its European strategy, with plans to revive the spirit of its iconic ForTwo model through the upcoming #2, signaling a dual approach to cater to different regional market demands.

The introduction of the Smart #6 represents a pivotal moment for the brand, demonstrating a bold evolution from its heritage of small city cars to a future embracing larger, technologically advanced plug-in hybrids. This new sedan, with its imposing size, powerful hybrid powertrain, and advanced features, redefines Smart's identity and its ambitions in the global automotive landscape, particularly within the competitive Chinese market.

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Hyundai vs. Kia: US Sales Dominance in 2025

In the first eleven months of 2025, both Hyundai and Kia have showcased impressive growth in the U.S. automotive market, marking a period of record-breaking achievements for the Korean sister brands. Despite both experiencing an increase in sales by 8% and 7% respectively, Hyundai has secured a notable lead over Kia in total units sold, signaling its stronger market penetration and consumer preference in various vehicle categories.

A closer examination of their performance reveals distinct strengths and weaknesses. While Kia demonstrates superiority in niche segments such as subcompact crossovers and minivans, exemplified by the popularity of its Carnival model, Hyundai's broader appeal in electric vehicles (EVs), sedans, and overall crossover sales solidifies its dominant position. Hyundai's Ioniq 5, for instance, has dramatically outsold Kia's EV6, underscoring a significant lead in the rapidly expanding EV market. This comprehensive success across multiple vehicle types highlights Hyundai's effective strategy in catering to diverse consumer demands.

Ultimately, Hyundai's strategic model diversification, particularly in the burgeoning EV sector, has positioned it as the preferred Korean automotive brand in the United States. Both companies offer stylish vehicles equipped with advanced technology and a variety of hybrid options, reflecting a shared commitment to innovation. However, Hyundai's superior sales figures in critical segments, including a substantial lead in EVs, sedans, and crossovers, have enabled it to outpace Kia, asserting its stronghold in the competitive American market. This outcome underscores the importance of a well-rounded product portfolio and forward-thinking investment in future technologies like electric powertrains.

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