Almost everything that Mercedes-Benz makes has an AMG version. And that includes apparels. So, one ought to be outright stupid to think that the sensible GLB won’t be given to the skunkworks. Well, get your senses in place because it was and now the finished product is out. Meet the Mercedes-AMG GLB 35 4MATIC. In typical AMG manner, the name is a mouthful and a half. Anyway, let’s see what the new range-topper is made of.

Since this is an AMG-spec derivative, it is only logical to understand the propulsion system first. Under the bonnet is a 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine which is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. That sounds a bit too less for AMG standards. But the Germans have managed to extract 302hp/400Nm and all of that is fed to the road via an all-wheel-drive system. Performance figures speak for themselves – 0-100kmph can be dealt within 5.2 seconds, and the top speed is electronically limited to 250kmph.

Obviously, there are some supporting gizmos to make the go-fast SUV feel special. To start with, there are multiple drive modes – Slippery, Comfort, Sport, Sport+ and Individual. The GLB 35 also sports a Race Start function as standard. And, depending on the driving situation, the all-wheel-drive system is flexible enough to shift power from only the front wheels to all four in a 50:50 ratio. Other fixtures such as AMG-tuned suspension, bigger brakes and a speed-sensitive steering wheel are there to bolster the dynamic driving ability.

Every AMG-spec model has to shout out loud in appearance. And the GLB 35 is no exception. At the front, there’s the grille with chrome teeth and a massive three-pointed star in the centre. Accompanying it is a front splitter which should aid in high-speed stability. The side profile is all about those 19-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels which are finished in tantalum grey. Hiding behind those are silver brake callipers with black AMG lettering. If you think those alloys are way too small, get your head checked! And if that doesn’t help, get the options list and go up to 21 inches. The alloys, not your head! Other swanky styling cues include a tweaked rear end with twin exhaust outlets and a roof spoiler. There’s an AMG Night package on the options list which, as the name suggests, brings a bunch of black coloured elements.

Inside, the sports seats are covered in the combination of black Artico artificial leather and Dinamica microfibre. The contrasting red stitching and red seatbelts liven-up the interior ambience. Needless to say, the MBUX infotainment system is tweaked to feature AMG-specific displays (Classic, Sporty and Supersport) while retaining all its touchpad, gesture control and voice control trickery. The options list includes more upholstery options, a seven-seat configuration and an AMG Performance steering wheel.

So, there you have it. The sensible GLB with a shouty exterior, flashy interior and big boots. Launch details haven’t surfaced yet. Will India get it? We think yes. It could create a segment of its own. As of now, no other compact SUV on our shores offers such a bonkers package.

Also Read: Mercedes-Benz GLB Compact SUV Revealed