26 MPG combined won’t win any hypermiling awards, but it’s respectable for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4matic. This compact SUV isn’t trying to be a Prius; it’s designed for young families and urban adventurers who value versatility, luxury, and the peace of mind that comes with all-wheel drive. Fuel economy is important, but it’s just one piece for GLB250 buyers.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLB250 4matic achieves 23 MPG in the city and 30 MPG on the highway. The city number reflects stop-and-go traffic, where the 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine and eight-speed automatic transmission work harder to get the GLB250 moving. On the open road, the transmission settles into higher gears, allowing the engine to cruise more efficiently. 30 MPG is a reasonable expectation on long highway trips, assuming you’re not constantly hammering the accelerator to pass slower vehicles. The GLB250’s 4matic all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced traction in inclement weather, but it slightly impacts fuel economy compared to front-wheel drive models.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4matic at $2,250. This calculation is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using national average fuel prices. Your actual fuel costs will vary depending on your driving habits, the type of fuel you use, and local fuel prices. If you primarily drive in the city, or if fuel prices are high in your area, expect to spend more. If you do a lot of highway driving, or live in an area with lower fuel prices, your actual fuel costs could be lower than the EPA estimate. It’s always a good idea to factor these variables into your personal budget.

Real-world expectations

While the EPA figures provide a useful baseline, real-world fuel economy often differs. GLB250 owners report MPG figures that are very close to, and sometimes slightly exceed, the EPA estimates, especially during long road trips. Aggressive driving, short trips, and heavy use of the air conditioning can all negatively impact fuel economy. The GLB250 also has different drive modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport) that can affect fuel consumption. Choosing “Eco” mode will prioritize fuel efficiency over performance. You can find all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data on our site for further research.

How it compares

The GLB250’s fuel economy is competitive within its class. The BMW X1 xDrive28i, another popular compact luxury SUV with all-wheel drive, gets a similar 25 MPG combined. The Volvo XC40 T5 AWD also lands around 26 MPG combined. The Lexus UX 250h, a hybrid SUV, achieves significantly better fuel economy, rated at 41 MPG combined. The Lexus UX 250h offers a different driving experience and may not appeal to buyers looking for the GLB250’s combination of luxury and practicality. For shoppers comparing GLB250 MPG across all years, remember that minor variations can occur due to model year updates.

Tips to maximize efficiency

Use the GLB250’s “Eco” drive mode. This mode remaps the throttle response, optimizes the transmission shift points, and even adjusts the climate control system to prioritize fuel efficiency. While you might sacrifice a bit of responsiveness, it can make a difference on longer drives.

Maintain proper tire inflation. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and reducing fuel economy. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended pressure, which can be found on the sticker inside the driver’s side doorjamb.

Avoid unnecessary idling. Letting your engine idle for extended periods wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine and restart it when you’re ready to go.

Lighten the load. Carrying unnecessary cargo adds weight to the vehicle, which reduces fuel economy. Remove any items you don’t need from the trunk and rear seats to improve efficiency. Small reductions in weight can add up over time.

Service your vehicle regularly. Proper maintenance, such as oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug replacements, ensures that your engine is running efficiently. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule in your owner’s manual to keep your GLB250 in top condition.