5 or 7 Seats? The Mercedes-Benz GLB: A Smart Choice for Mirabel Families

Choosing the right luxury SUV for your family in Mirabel hinges on one critical question: how many seats do you actually need? The Mercedes-Benz GLB answers with remarkable flexibility—offering both 5-seat and optional 7-seat configurations in the same compact, refined package. For families juggling hockey practices, weekend trips to Mont-Tremblant, and daily school runs along the 117, this adaptability makes the GLB a standout in the luxury compact SUV segment.

Unlike larger three-row SUVs that sacrifice manoeuvrability for space, or strictly five-seat models that leave you scrambling during carpool season, the GLB strikes a practical balance. Its optional third row converts this compact Mercedes-Benz into a seven-passenger vehicle without the bulk of a midsize SUV—ideal for families who need occasional extra seating without committing to a larger footprint.

At a Glance: GLB 5-Seat vs. 7-Seat Configuration

Why the Optional Third Row Changes Everything

The GLB's available 3rd-row Seat Package (approximately $1,000) includes electrically adjustable second-row seats, two additional USB-C ports, and a 50/50-split third row designed for shorter trips or younger passengers. This setup serves families in Mirabel and surrounding Laurentian communities who regularly carpool to arenas, schools, or ski hills.

Cargo flexibility across configurations:

• 5-seat configuration: 570 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,805 litres with rear seats folded
• 7-seat configuration: 179 litres with all seats up, 570 litres with third row folded, 1,805 litres with all rear seats down

The second-row seats slide forward and back, recline, and fold in a 40/20/40 split, while the EASY-ENTRY feature widens access to the third row. You can adjust seating arrangements on the fly—loading hockey bags after practice or fitting an extra teammate for away games in Laval.

Performance Across Both Configurations

Both configurations share the same capable powertrain: a 2.0-litre inline-4 turbo engine with 48-volt mild hybrid technology, delivering 221 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The mild hybrid system adds up to 13 horsepower electrically for smoother acceleration during merges onto Autoroute 15 or passing slower traffic on Highway 50.

The 8G-DCT 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission offers quick, seamless shifts in Mirabel's suburban streets or when cruising toward the Laurentians. Standard 4MATIC all-wheel drive continuously varies torque distribution between front and rear axles, optimizing stability and traction across Quebec's diverse driving conditions—from winter snow to summer rain.

Key performance specifications:

• 0–100 km/h: 7.0 seconds
• City fuel economy: 9.8 L/100 km
• Highway fuel economy: 7.2 L/100 km
• Turning circle: 11.7 metres (curb-to-curb)

The GLB's compact dimensions (wheelbase: 2,829 mm; overall length: 4,634 mm) make it easy to park at shopping centres or navigate tight residential streets, while ground clearance and available off-road engineering features (loose-surface mode, Downhill Speed Regulation) handle unpaved cottage roads with confidence.

Interior Space and Comfort for Real Families

Despite its compact exterior, the GLB maximizes interior volume through upright lines and clever packaging. Front passengers enjoy 1,069 mm of headroom and 1,045 mm of legroom, while second-row occupants get 999 mm of headroom and 937 mm of legroom—generous for the segment.

The optional third row provides 884 mm of headroom and 740 mm of legroom, suitable for children or shorter adults on brief trips. Shoulder room in the third row measures 1,111 mm, allowing two passengers to sit comfortably without feeling cramped.

Standard luxury features include heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a panoramic sunroof. The cabin features supportive seats in ARTICO man-made leather, 64-colour LED ambient lighting, and aluminum accents that reference the iconic G-Class.

Technology That Simplifies Family Life

The Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) system includes dual 10.25-inch screens—one for the digital instrument cluster, one for the central touchscreen. Voice control responds to "Hey, Mercedes" commands, allowing you to adjust navigation, climate, or audio without taking hands off the wheel.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with front-cabin wireless charging and five USB-C ports throughout the cabin (seven with the third-row package). Mercedes me connect services enable remote start, vehicle lock/check, and service booking from your smartphone—useful for warming up the GLB on cold Mirabel mornings or verifying you locked the doors after dropping kids at school.

Standard driver assistance features include Active Brake Assist, Blind Spot Assist with Exit Warning Feature, and PARKTRONIC with Active Parking Assist for hands-free parking. A rearview camera and ATTENTION ASSIST (driver drowsiness monitoring) add further confidence.

Which Configuration Makes Sense for You?

Choose the 5-seat GLB if you:

• Prioritize maximum cargo space for sports equipment, groceries, or travel gear
• Have a smaller household or older children who've outgrown carpooling
• Want the lowest entry price and simplest configuration
• Frequently transport bulky items like hockey bags, camping gear, or home improvement supplies

Choose the 7-seat GLB if you:

• Regularly carpool to hockey, soccer, or other activities
• Have a growing family or anticipate needing extra seats within the next few years
• Host visiting relatives or friends who occasionally need transportation
• Want flexibility to reconfigure seating based on weekly needs

For many Mirabel families, the optional third row proves worth the investment during the school year and youth sports seasons, even if it sits folded most of the time. The ability to accommodate an extra teammate or two grandparents converts the GLB from a practical compact SUV into a multi-purpose family vehicle.

Your GLB Awaits at Mercedes-Benz Blainville

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB delivers flexible seating solutions for families in Mirabel and across Quebec. Choose the standard 5-seat configuration or add the optional third row—you gain a vehicle that adapts to your lifestyle rather than forcing compromises.

Experience both configurations firsthand at Mercedes-Benz Blainville in Mirabel. Our team can demonstrate the GLB's flexible seating arrangements, advanced technology, and refined driving dynamics—helping you determine which setup best serves your family's needs.