The 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLB Heats Cabins Twice as Fast as Its Predecessor

Quebec winters demand more than winter tires and a scraper. Families heading to Mont-Tremblant or Bromont need a vehicle that delivers comfort the moment they climb inside—not 20 minutes down the road. The all-new 2027 Mercedes-Benz GLB answers that challenge with climate technology that heats the cabin twice as fast as its predecessor and outpaces traditional gasoline-powered vehicles.

The GLB maximizes electric range, reduces energy waste, and ensures every passenger feels comfortable from the first kilometre. Here's how Mercedes-Benz engineered winter comfort into the GLB.

The Multi-Source Heat Pump

At the heart of the GLB's winter performance sits a multi-source heat pump adapted from the VISION EQXX technology program. Unlike conventional electric heaters that drain battery power, this system draws heat from three sources simultaneously: waste heat from the electric drive, battery thermal energy, and ambient air.

The heat pump uses approximately one-third of the electrical energy a comparable auxiliary heater would require to achieve the same output. That efficiency translates directly into preserved range during cold-weather driving—a critical advantage for Quebec drivers navigating highways between Montreal and Quebec City or venturing into the Laurentians.

Twice the Speed, Half the Energy

Mercedes-Benz subjected the 2027 GLB to rigorous cold-weather testing in climatic wind tunnels at the Mercedes Technology Centre in Sindelfingen. Engineers simulated temperatures as low as -40°C and fierce blizzards with snowflakes racing toward the vehicle at speeds up to 200 km/h.

During a 20-minute drive in -7°C ambient temperatures, the GLB's climate control heated the interior twice as fast as its predecessor. Notably, it undercut the heating time of an internal combustion engine-powered vehicle while requiring only about half the energy compared to the previous GLB generation.

The cabin heating process starts automatically as soon as someone enters the vehicle. Mercedes-Benz employs a targeted strategy: the system first warms the upper body and hands of occupants to ensure rapid thermal comfort, even without pre-conditioning. This approach delivers immediate comfort without waiting for the entire cabin to reach temperature.

Windshield Defrosting in 15 Minutes

Visibility matters as much as warmth. In frigid temperatures between -20°C and -15°C, the GLB's climate control system demonstrated the capability to quickly defrost an icy windshield. At an outside temperature of -15°C, it takes only 15 minutes for the windshield to be clear for safe driving—accomplished using only the defrost setting of the climate control system, without further intervention from the driver such as switching on the windshield wipers.

Cameras recorded the entire de-icing process during testing, confirming the GLB's ability to handle real-world winter conditions Quebec drivers face every morning from December through March.

Intelligent Climate Control That Adapts

The GLB's climate control system is straightforward to use and can be adapted to individual needs. It regulates heating and cooling seamlessly with the help of its intelligent, predictive operating strategy.

The system's intelligence extends beyond simple temperature adjustment. It predicts occupant needs based on driving conditions, time of day, and cabin temperature, making micro-adjustments that maximize comfort while preserving range.

LowE Panoramic Roof Reduces Heat Loss

The large panoramic roof sets a new standard in the segment and provides a generous, open sense of space. It features heat-insulating laminated safety glass with an infrared-reflecting coating and a low-emissivity (LowE) coating on the interior surface.

In winter, the LowE coating reduces heat loss by reflecting interior heat back into the cabin. At only 200 nanometres thick—thinner than a human hair—this infrared film delivers significant thermal benefits without compromising the open, airy feel of the cabin.

Available as an option, the transparency of the panoramic roof can be changed segment by segment in 10 to 20 milliseconds. Customers can use the central multimedia display to switch between transparent for a clear view above and "opal" (translucent) for improved glare protection in direct sunlight. The large panoramic roof is also available with optional ambient lighting featuring a luminous starry sky.

Key Takeaways

Flexible Interior for Quebec Families

The all-new GLB is available standard with seating for five and optional seating for seven. Compared to its predecessor, the new GLB offers noticeably more headroom for first and second row occupants thanks to the roofline of the SUV as well as the standard panoramic roof. Seating comfort for second row passengers is also noticeably improved with more legroom and longer thigh support.

A sliding, adjustable second row seat is available as an option on five-seat models and is also included with optional third row seating. This allows the angle of the second row seat backrest to be adjusted as well as the entire second row seats to move fore and aft for greater comfort or cargo space.

The optional third row seating is also easier to access in the new GLB thanks to the significantly longer adjustment range of the Easy-Entry function. When not in use, the third row seats can fold down into the load floor.

MB.OS: Intelligence That Learns

The Mercedes-Benz Operating System (MB.OS) supercomputer transforms the all-new GLB into an intelligent companion that thinks, learns and evolves with the driver. Combined with the fourth generation MBUX, the latest operating concept delivers redesigned welcome animations, an advanced Zero Layer function, an extensive range of apps, the MBUX Virtual Assistant with different avatars and powered by generative artificial intelligence, navigation provided by Google Maps and powerful MBUX Surround Navigation.

The all-new GLB comes standard with an extensive range of driver assistance technologies, including Digital Extra: Distance Assist DISTRONIC. It is also equipped with eight cameras, five radar sensors, 12 ultrasonic sensors and a water-cooled high-performance supercomputer with sufficient power reserves for future functions and regular over-the-air updates.

Register for Updates at Mercedes-Benz Blainville

The 2027 GLB redefines what Quebec families should expect from a compact luxury SUV. From its efficient heat pump system to its intelligent climate control and spacious, flexible interior, every element has been engineered to deliver comfort without compromise.

The 2027 GLB underwent cold-weather testing before its world premiere earlier this month. Contact our team at Mercedes-Benz Blainville in Mirabel to register for availability updates, learn more about the climate control features, and explore how the GLB can meet your family's needs.