MINI Countryman vs Mercedes-Benz GLB

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB was positioned between the GLA and GLC in the automaker's SUV lineup, offering both the GLB250 and AMG GLB35 specifications. The GLB250 came with front-wheel drive or 4Matic all-wheel drive, while the AMG GLB35 boasted a more powerful drivetrain with an advanced AWD system. The model year introduced a few updates, such as satellite radio in the Premium Package and a new AMG Night Package Plus with black grille louvers and badges. The AMG GLB35 also offered a new Rose Gold paint color. Starting at $38,600 for the GLB250, the AMG GLB35 began at $51,000, with our test vehicle totaling $57,250 with options. The GLB's design was polarizing, with a steep windshield angle and short overhangs, but the 21-inch wheels added style. Inside, the cabin was a blend of high-tech displays and artistic air vents, though the controls required acclimation. Despite its entry-level status, the GLB's quality was evident, though road noise was a concern.

The 2025 MINI Countryman was fundamentally appealing, featuring traditional Mini design cues like wide-eyed headlights and a floating roof, wrapped in modern sheet metal. Buyers had to choose between the Cooper S, John Cooper Works (JCW), and the electric SE model, with prices ranging from $38,900 to $46,900. Our Cooper S test vehicle, priced at $45,275, featured Iconic trim, Favoured style, and British Racing Green paint. The interior boasted Vintage Brown artificial leather seats and an adaptive damping suspension. While the faint gold tint on the trim and wheels was not to everyone's taste, the Countryman made a bold statement with its design. The interior was stylish and imparted a sense of quality, with Petrol Blue fabric and ambient lighting adding to the appeal. Despite some quirks, the Countryman was seen as a stylish bargain in a sea of conservative crossovers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine across both versions. The AMG GLB35 was enhanced to deliver 302 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, outperforming the GLB250's engine by 81 hp and 37 lb-ft. The AMG GLB35 also included an AMG SpeedShift eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, AMG Performance variable 4Matic AWD, and an AMG Sport Exhaust system. It accelerated to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds, significantly faster than the GLB250. However, the AMG GLB35's fuel economy was lower, with an EPA rating of 22 mpg combined. The AMG High-Performance Braking System and AMG Ride Control adaptive damping sport suspension were standard, emphasizing performance over comfort. While the AMG GLB35 was thrilling on twisty roads, it was firm and loud in everyday driving, making the GLB250 a better daily driver.

The 2025 MINI Countryman Cooper S was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 241 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. It featured a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive, accelerating to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds. The Countryman offered different Mini Experiences, altering driving dynamics and infotainment display. However, the lack of refinement was evident, with clunky shifting and a lack of paddle shifters. The Countryman was quick and nimble, especially in Go Kart mode, but its driving dynamics were boisterous, with a lack of powertrain refinement and noise isolation. The steering had an on-center dead spot, and the brakes were touchy. Despite these issues, the Countryman was fun to drive, though its fuel economy was lower than expected, returning 24.5 mpg in testing.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB offered a spacious interior for a small SUV, with an optional third-row seat suitable for children. Standard features included dual-zone automatic climate control and eight-way power-adjustable front seats, with options for heated and ventilated seats and a panoramic sunroof. The GLB's cargo area provided 22 cubic feet of space, expanding to 62 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The third-row seat reduced storage space, making it less practical for U.S. buyers. The GLB's design prioritized function over form, with easy access and comfortable seating for four adults.

The 2025 MINI Countryman accommodated four adults comfortably, though the back seat was snug. The front seats were comfortable, with good outward visibility and an excellent surround-view camera system. The Countryman offered generous storage, with a power tailgate revealing 25 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 56.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded. The interior featured unique storage solutions, like a funky storage box on the center console. However, clearance for a reverse-facing child seat was tight, and the rear doors required careful handling to avoid damaging neighboring vehicles.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch digital gauge cluster and touchscreen. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes Me connected services. The Premium Package added satellite radio, while the Multimedia Package included navigation with augmented reality. Optional upgrades included wireless charging, a Burmester audio system, and a head-up display. MBUX was user-friendly, with natural voice recognition and a digital assistant. The navigation system's augmented reality technology was particularly impressive.

The 2025 MINI Countryman had a 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen infotainment display, using Mini's latest operating system. It included cloud-based navigation with augmented video, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon audio system. The Intelligent Personal Assistant, Spike, was inactive in the test vehicle, and the infotainment system's complexity was challenging. The head-up display was helpful, providing essential information without cluttering the center display. Despite its quirks, the Countryman's technology offered a range of features for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLB lacked the optional Driver Assistance Package, which included adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. Standard safety features included Active Brake Assist, blind-spot monitoring, and Mercedes-Benz emergency call service. The GLB also had rain-sensing wipers and an Attention Assist driver monitoring system. However, crash-test ratings were unavailable.

The 2025 MINI Countryman was well-equipped with safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keep assist. It also had adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability, forming the basis for Assisted Driving and Assisted Driving Plus. The latter allowed hands-free driving, though it was not available in the U.S. The Countryman was named a "Top Safety Pick" by the IIHS in 2024, highlighting its safety credentials.