MINI Countryman vs Mercedes-Benz GLC

The 2025 MINI Countryman was a blend of traditional and modern design elements, featuring iconic wide-eyed headlights, a floating roof available in various colours, and vertical Union Jack taillights. Depending on the model and customization options, the Countryman could present as either a conservative crossover or a performance-oriented SUV. The interior was stylish, with Vintage Brown artificial leather seats and a Petrol Blue fabric dashboard made from recycled polyester, offering a sense of quality and sophistication. Despite some reservations about the faint gold tint on the trim and wheels, the Countryman made a bold statement with its bright British Racing Green paint and 20-inch Windmill Spoke wheels.

In contrast, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC adhered to the brand's current design language, presenting a sleek and muscular shape with taut lines flowing from its star-pattern grille and standard LED headlights. The GLC's taller, upright cabin and short overhangs suggested multi-terrain capability, especially in non-AMG Line models. The interior was luxurious, with contrasting leather-adorned door panels and premium materials throughout. The GLC 350e PHEV test unit featured supple white leather seats with heating and ventilation options, a haptic steering wheel, and climate controls, all complemented by faux carbon fibre and painted aluminum trim accents.

The 2025 MINI Countryman S was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-litre 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 100 km/h in approximately 6.4 seconds. Despite its zippy nature and nimble handling, the Countryman lacked refinement, with a clunky DCT and touchy brakes. The driving experience was lively, especially in Go Kart mode, but the lack of powertrain refinement and noise isolation could become tiresome. Fuel economy was estimated at 8.7 litres per 100 kilometres, though our test vehicle returned 9.6 L/100 km.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered a choice between the 300 and 350e models, both featuring a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine. The 300 model produced 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, aided by a 48-volt mild-hybrid system, achieving a 0-100 km/h time of 6.2 seconds. The 350e's hybrid system delivered a combined output of 313 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque, with a 6.7-second 0-100 km/h time. The GLC's ride quality was smooth, with excellent body control and steering response. The 350e's regenerative braking and electric range of 87 kilometres added to its appeal, while fuel economy was estimated at 9.4 L/100 km in hybrid mode.

The 2025 MINI Countryman offered seating for four adults, with comfortable front seats and good outward visibility. The rear seat was snug but adequate for teenagers, with air vents, USB charging ports, and a panoramic sunroof enhancing passenger satisfaction. Cargo space was generous, with 708 litres available, expanding to 1,591 litres with the rear seats folded. The power tailgate and unique storage solutions added to its practicality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided ample hip, shoulder, and legroom in the front, though the rear seats were tighter on space. The GLC 350e offered 470 litres of cargo space, expanding to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded. Despite being smaller than some competitors, the GLC's practical design allowed for easy storage of everyday items. The hybrid model's fuel economy was impressive, with an estimated 9.6 L/100 km over 440 kilometres of mixed driving.

The 2025 MINI Countryman featured a 9.4-inch OLED touchscreen infotainment display, though it received mixed reviews due to its unconventional shape and reduced physical controls. The system included cloud-based navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. However, the Intelligent Personal Assistant was inactive during testing, and navigating the extensive menus could be challenging.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC boasted the latest MBUX infotainment system, with haptic controls and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. While the system required some acclimation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connected seamlessly. The GLC's ambient lighting and Burmester 3D surround sound system enhanced the driving experience, despite occasional frustrations with the MBUX interface.

The 2025 MINI Countryman was well-equipped with safety features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring. The Driving Assistant Professional package added adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist. The Countryman earned a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS in 2024.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC came standard with blind-spot monitoring, active parking assistance, and automatic high beams. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, and automatic emergency braking. The safety features worked harmoniously, providing a smooth and confident driving experience.