On January 12, Mercedes-Benz Japan announced the addition of the high-performance "Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC" (hereafter referred to as GLB 35) to its compact SUV lineup, the GLB. Pre-orders will commence the same day, with deliveries expected to begin around the end of January.

The GLB 35 is the sixth model in the "Mercedes-AMG 35 Series." It is described as a model developed to achieve a high level of driving performance by combining a front-wheel-drive architecture with a high-output engine, a four-wheel-drive system ensuring ample traction, a highly rigid chassis, and dedicated suspension tuning, all without compromising comfort.

The GLB 35's powertrain features the "M260" 2.0-liter inline-4 turbo engine, producing a maximum output of 306 hp (225 kW) and a peak torque of 400 Nm. Power is delivered to the AMG 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system via an AMG Speedshift DCT 8-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The AMG 4MATIC system, employing an electro-mechanical controlled multi-plate clutch, can vary the front-to-rear torque distribution from 100:0 to 50:50. This allows for sharp driving dynamics with quick response and speed-independent operation. Additionally, the AMG exhaust system enables a switch between a balanced tone and a motorsport-inspired, emotion-stirring exhaust sound, depending on the selected drive mode.

The suspension system, equipped with the standard "AMG Ride Control suspension," allows for a wide range of damping characteristic adjustments. A reinforced braking system, featuring new monoblock 4-piston calipers and 350mm discs at the front, and a 1-piston floating caliper with 330mm discs at the rear, shortens braking distances.

Five drive modes can be selected via the center console's AMG DYNAMICS: Comfort, Sport, Sport+, Slippery, and Individual. Additionally, there are two automatic modes, "Basic" and "Advanced," which alter the ESP control.

The exterior, based on the AMG Line, features an AMG-specific radiator grille at the front and a specially designed dual exhaust end at the rear to express its high performance. The interior is equipped with a cockpit display offering AMG-specific display styles and "AMG Drive Control" switches on the steering wheel. With the optional Navigation Package, the vehicle can also be equipped with AMG Track Pace, which records over 80 vehicle data points (such as speed and acceleration) during circuit driving. The price is 7.37 million yen.