New Mercedes GLB reminds us of the G-Wagen minus the edges

Ever wanted a crossover that could go anywhere but is not as big as an SUV or MPV?

Mercedes-Benz appears to have thought exactly that with the all-new GLB Concept. Featuring a look reminescent of the G-Class and GLK, the GLB Concept is the company's take on making a small, rugged crossover opposite the sport-oriented GLA, and the more practical GLC.

Preluding an upcoming production model that will bear the same name, the GLB Concept is unlike anything Mercedes-Benz has designed. Sure it gets the familiar headlight and front grill design but with a more upright profile akin to SUVs of old. Matte black alloy wheels, along with large chunky all-terrain tires give the GLB a macho appearance.

Inside, the GLB Concept comes with high quality leather, as well as heaps of wood trim and glossy finishes. It may be a vehicle built for the rugged terrain but Mercedes made sure the GLB Concept is a comfortable vehicle to be in. Like the new A-Class, the GLB Concept also comes with the high-tech MBUX infotainment system. With it, features like voice control, 3D navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are within easy reach.

Despite its diminuitive size, the GLB is a seven-seater through and through. That's right, the GLB Concept comes with three rows of seats. Mercedes-Benz assured that the third row seats are capable of seating medium-size passengers, not just kids. Meanwhile, the second row seats can be split folded 40:20:40 in order to maximze cargo carrying capacity.

Powering the GLB Concept is a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that is mated to an eight-speed dual-clutch gearbox. It produces 224 PS along with 350 Nm of torque. Don't think that this is only a 4x2 crossover as Mercedes-Benz equipped it with the 4Matic all-wheel drive system. Depending on the driver's preference, the AWD system can be set to three settings; Eco/Comfort (80:20 torque split), Sport (70:30 split), and Off-Road mode (50:50 split between axles).

With the GLB serving as a bridge between the GLA and GLC, the new seven-seater could prove to be a hit for those that are looking at a small three-row crossover instead of a bigger SUV or MPV. Mercedes-Benz has not announced as to when will the production version hit the market, but given that the concept is already looking like a fully-working model, it could only be a few months away before the GLB makes its official debut.