The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4matic’s 27 MPG combined fuel economy might not lead the pack, but it’s a reasonable compromise for buyers who want versatility, luxury, and the Mercedes-Benz brand. It’s a compact SUV designed for both weekend trips and daily driving. The target buyer is often young families or city residents needing cargo space and comfortable seating, and for them, the fuel economy falls within an acceptable range.

City and highway performance

The EPA estimates the GLB250 4matic gets 24 MPG in the city and 33 MPG on the highway. The city figure, while not the best, reflects typical stop-and-go driving, where the 2.0L turbocharged engine uses more fuel. The eight-speed automatic transmission (AM8) helps reduce this, keeping the engine in its most efficient range when it can. The highway MPG is better, showing the GLB250 4matic is a comfortable and relatively economical car for long trips.

Annual fuel cost

The EPA estimates the annual fuel cost for the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB250 4matic at $2,150. This is based on driving 15,000 miles per year and using average national fuel prices. It’s a helpful reference, but your actual costs will change based on your driving and local gas prices. The calculation allows for a direct comparison of the GLB250’s running costs against all Mercedes Benz fuel economy data.

Real-world expectations

EPA numbers provide a standard, but real-world MPG often differs. Hard acceleration, frequent short drives, and heavy loads will lower fuel efficiency. However, drivers who accelerate smoothly, keep a steady speed on the highway, and keep tires properly inflated will likely see fuel economy closer to the EPA estimates. Check the GLB250 MPG across all years to see how older models performed.

How it compares

The GLB250 4matic’s fuel economy places it in the middle of its class. The BMW X1 xDrive28i, for instance, gets a combined 28 MPG, offering slightly better fuel economy, but possibly less versatility. The Audi Q3 45 TFSI quattro lags a bit at 25 MPG combined. The Lexus NX 250 AWD also provides 28 MPG combined but has a different design approach. This is a complex decision for buyers, balancing MPG with brand, interior, and driving experience. A GLB250 4matic buyer likely values the Mercedes-Benz combination of luxury and practicality and is okay with slightly lower MPG than other SUVs that prioritize efficiency.

Tips to maximize efficiency

In most situations, use “Comfort” mode. The GLB250’s driving mode selector changes throttle response and shift patterns. “Sport” mode is good for quick bursts, but using “Comfort” will provide smoother, more fuel-efficient driving every day. The transmission will shift up sooner and downshift less, saving fuel.

Check your tire pressure often. Underinflated tires raise rolling resistance, making the engine work harder and use more fuel. Check pressures at least monthly, and before long trips. Inflate tires to the pressures on the sticker inside the driver’s side door.

Avoid idling. Modern engines restart quickly. If you’re stopped for over a minute or two, turning off the engine saves fuel. The GLB250 has an automatic start/stop system, so learn how it works, and turn off the engine manually in long traffic jams.

Reduce weight. Extra weight in your car hurts fuel economy. Remove unnecessary items, like sports gear, tools, or large items in the cargo area. The less weight the engine moves, the less fuel it burns.

Look ahead. Keeping a steady speed helps maximize fuel efficiency. Scan the road for issues, braking points, and traffic. By looking ahead, you can avoid quick acceleration and braking, which use more fuel.