The 2020 GLB-Class is the smallest Mercedes that can be equipped with three rows of seats.
Pros Chunky styling Lots of tech Right-sized
Cons Third row looks tight Too many Mercedes SUVs? Bound to be expensive
Slotting into the narrow space between the GLA-Class and the GLC-Class is the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class compact crossover, but this mini-ute pulls its boxier styling from the vaunted GLE- and G-Class SUVs. We saw the concept in April at the Shanghai auto show and Mercedes-Benz unveiled the production model, in all its mini-ute glory, at an event in June; we expect the GLB to be on sale by the end of 2019.
Mercedes-Benz launches new-generation cars every other week, but whole new nameplates are rarer things. Enter the family-focused GLB small SUV...
Pros Back seat and boot space Comfortable suspension Cool design inside and out
Cons Transmission calibration issues Base engine is nothing special Is there scope for a diesel?
It’s easy to see why buyers increasingly pick luxury compact crossovers like the 2019 Audi Q5; it’s comfortable and quick with plenty of room.
Pros Good powertrains Useful technology Standard active safety features Comfortable interior…
Cons …but it’s a little boring Ditto on the exterior Pricey top trims
Audi has made a number of features standard for 2019, including heated front seats, a seven-inch gauge-cluster display, rear electric child locks, the Audi Connect CARE telematics system, and aluminum trim around the windows. The mid-range Premium Plus model now offers navigation as standard, a wireless smartphone charging pad, and rear-seat USB ports. The Black Optics package is now available on Premium Plus and Prestige models and includes 20-inch dark gray wheels and blacked-out exterior trim.
Pros Gutsy and efficient powertrain, high-tech features, expensively tailored looks.
Cons Not a cargo-hauling leader, LATCH anchors difficult to access, awkward cupholder location.
A few more features are standard this year.New 7-inch driver information display.Premium Plus trim adds standard navigation and wireless phone charging.The 2019 Q5 now offers a few more standard luxuries, including heated front seats and an upgraded driver display and gauge cluster. The midtrim model now includes navigation and wireless phone charging (previously it was an option). They are small changes, but they're enough to keep the Q5 fresh.
PROS Recent chassis changes deliver a smoother ride than before Quiet, comfortable cabin features top-notch interior craftsmanship All-wheel drive comes standard Wide array of technology options
CONS Only one engine offered Diminished space for luggage behind rear seats
