2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB vs 2019 Audi Q3

The 2019 Audi Q3 featured a bold design with its large octagonal grille and signature headlights, reminiscent of its A5 and Q5 siblings. Buyers could choose between the standard Quattro equipment or the Quattro S Line, which added unique bumper designs and 19-inch wheels. Inside, the Q3's cabin combined futuristic elements with traditional controls, offering three trims: Premium, Premium Plus, and Prestige. The Prestige trim, in particular, boasted advanced tech features, including Audi’s virtual cockpit and an upgraded MMI infotainment system, along with customizable LED interior lighting.

In contrast, the 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB presented a boxy and tall design, maximizing interior space on a front-wheel-drive platform with optional 4Matic AWD. Its Mountain Gray metallic paint and AMG Line design package added style, while the interior offered generous space, even accommodating an optional third row. The GLB's cabin was a blend of high style and simplicity, with dual 10.25-inch screens and ambient lighting enhancing the driving experience. Despite some metallic trim feeling less premium, the GLB's interior was a comfortable and visually appealing space.

The 2019 Audi Q3 was powered by a 2-liter turbocharged I4 engine, delivering 228 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque through an 8-speed automatic transmission to its Quattro AWD system. The Q3 offered multiple drive modes, including Dynamic for sportier performance and Off-Road for trail use. Its suspension provided a balanced ride, though some might prefer the more dynamic handling of competitors like the Volvo XC40 or BMW X1. The Q3 achieved an EPA-rated fuel economy of 19 mpg city, 27 highway, and 22 combined, with a real-world average of 23.3 mpg.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB, available in GLB 250 and GLB 250 4Matic variants, featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Its 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and optional 4Matic AWD provided a smooth and responsive driving experience. The GLB's adaptive damping suspension and Sport mode enhanced its handling, making it surprisingly fun to drive. However, its brakes showed signs of fading during spirited driving. The GLB's fuel economy fell short of expectations, achieving 21.4 mpg compared to the EPA's 26-mpg estimate.

The 2019 Audi Q3 offered a spacious cabin with 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. Audi improved rear-seat comfort with scalloped ceiling panels for added headroom. The front seats provided ample space, and the MMI touchscreen system was user-friendly, with physical climate controls simplifying operation. The Q3's interior storage was practical, though the center console bin was modest in size.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB excelled in interior space, even offering an optional third row. It provided 22 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 62 cubic feet with it folded. The GLB's interior was comfortable for four adults, with power-adjustable front seats and a sliding second row for flexibility. While the third row was not tested, the GLB's squared-off design maximized cargo capacity, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2019 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.1-inch version available on higher trims. The MMI system featured intuitive icons and wireless Apple CarPlay on the Prestige trim. The Bang & Olufsen sound system and Audi Virtual Cockpit were notable tech highlights, making the Prestige trim a worthwhile investment for tech enthusiasts.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB's Premium Package upgraded the standard 7-inch screens to twin 10.25-inch displays, offering stunning graphics and customization. The MBUX infotainment system included natural voice recognition, Android Auto, and Apple CarPlay. The Multimedia Package added augmented video navigation, while the Parking Assistance Package provided a surround-view camera and semi-autonomous parking. The Burmester sound system was a standout feature, delivering excellent audio quality.

The 2019 Audi Q3 included standard safety features like front- and side-impact airbags, traction control, and a reversing camera. Driver-assistance systems such as forward-collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-departure warning were also standard. The Prestige trim added advanced driver-assistance features and a surround-view camera system, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered standard safety features, including a driver monitoring system, backup camera, and forward collision warning. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assistance, and evasive steering assistance. While crash-test ratings were unavailable, the GLB's safety systems operated with precision and reliability.