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?
The 2021 Mini Countryman trades some of its small car driving charm for a roomier interior.
Pros Roomiest Mini Distinct looks Fits a fun family Varied powertrains Meager plug-in hybrid range
Cons No Android Auto No standard Apple CarPlay Overmatched turbo-3 Mismatched features Luxury price
The 2021 MINI Cooper Countryman's #4 ranking is based on its score within the Subcompact SUVs category. Currently the MINI Cooper Countryman has a score of 7.8 out of 10, which is based on our evaluation of 25 pieces of research and data elements using various sources.
Pros Roomy, supportive seats Well-crafted interior Fun to drive
Cons Weak base engine Below-average cargo capacity High price tag
The biggest Mini gets a smattering of updates for 2021. Its unmistakable appearance is now even more distinctive due to a restyled front end. LED lighting elements promote its British heritage through a Union Jack motif on the taillights. There's now a Piano Black Exterior option that replaces the Mini's chrome trim with gloss-black pieces. A set of fresh wheel designs as well as White Silver and Sage Green metallic paint colors are new too. Inside, the infotainment system's housing is redesigned with gloss-black material.
Pros Well-built interior, Mini character in a family size, generous complimentary maintenance.
Cons Neither quick or nimble, plug-in hybrid is unremarkable, lacks some popular driver assists.
