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?
Pros Striking exterior design Lots of standard kit and space Very low PCP monthly payments Plenty of personalisation Good to drive
Cons Plain interior design Ride just okay on rough roads Boot smaller than some rivals Entry-level 95hp petrol a little underpowered No Cupra planned (yet)
The five-door All-New Arona, a front-wheel-drive only SUV, is well placed in this highly popular sector of the car market.It’s available with a choice of six engines, with both the diesel and petrol variants offered in either 95PS or 115 PS form, and the sporty FR 1.5 TSI EVO leaping up to 150 PS.
Pros Very smart looking inside and out Good choice of engines Well equipped and overall good value
Cons No SatNav on basic model
The Seat Arona is quite possibly the best compact SUV of the moment. Good practicality, economy and solid driving manners are all Arona staples.It lacks the visual creativity of a Hyundai Kona or the customisation of a Citroen C3 Aircross, but its real-world strengths far outweigh having orange door mirrors. It’s a level-headed car for level-headed people.
Pros Refined 1.0-litre petrol Ergonomic infotainment system Good ride
Cons Humdrum looks Narrow middle seat Trim levels that dictate engine choice
