2024 Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB Are Now Mild Hybrids With In-Car Games

Mercedes-Benz’s smallest crossovers gain some substantial updates in this latest refresh.

The Mercedes-Benz GLA and GLB-class have been on sale for a little bit of time now. So, it’s high time that they’re facelifted to keep the cars competitive in a highly contested segment – the entry-level premium crossover segment. This mild refresh includes lightly freshened styling and a new hybrid powertrain.

In front, both cars have new front bumpers, complete with new grilles with vertical louvers as we’ve seen on the latest GLC class. The grilles themselves are a little rounder, and the lower valence has been completely redesigned. The front headlights on both models are now fully LED. The rear fascia is different too, sporting a rear bumper with a little less chrome, and restyled tail lights.

The interior also got some updates, too. The twin screen layout is still present from the old car, but the upgraded 10.25-inch screens are now standard on the GLA and GLB. Also, the AMG-line package now includes a heated steering wheel. The screens now include the latest version of MBUX, which now include a series of new games that can be played, (either alone, or with the passengers) using the touch screen and buttons in the car. It’s an optional extra part of the Mercedes me Connect+ services, and should only be available when the car is parked.

The biggest story is the new mild hybrid setup in the GLA and GLB. The 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbo engine now has a 48V hybrid setup, complete with a 13-horsepower electric motor. The electric motor can assist with propulsion, and provide a bit of energy recapture during acceleration and braking. No official fuel economy numbers have been released, though, so we aren’t sure if the hybrid system will change either car’s fuel economy rating.

The full-fat AMG versions of the GLA and GLB also get these updates, albeit with sportier front and rear bumpers. The GLA AMG also now has body-colored wheel arches, in contrast to the black ones on the GLB AMG. And yes, the GLA and GLB AMG are mild hybrids, albeit with far more horsepower than the standard GLA and GLB.