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 2018 Toyota Avalon Hybrid is smooth and sumptuous, and it leads the full-size-car field while getting great fuel economy to boot.
Pros Elegant interior with top-notch materials Lots of standard comfort, tech, and safety features Comfortable ride and spacious seats Outstanding fuel economy
Cons Less trunk space than many large cars and hybrids Some droning when accelerating
The 2018 Toyota Avalon Hybrid carries over unchanged.
PROS Interior is quiet and upscale, with roomy seating front and rear Returns exceptional fuel economy for a large sedan Trunk is among the largest among full-size hybrid sedans
CONS Infotainment system lacks operational smoothness
Pros Supportive front seats Power Low wind noise at highway speeds Ride quality Roomy backseat
Cons Backseat doesn't fold down Touch-sensitive controls Control layout Interior materials and design Trunk space Price
