I think playing Germans is easier due to less micromanagement. But their small squad sizes make them vulnerable to explosions and this is pretty apparent by late game as the squad wipes mount up.
I actually still find the Germans better in early game/mid game. The grens with LMGs (reinforced by HT) have very good firepower compared to penals/conscripts. Fast Stugs are great.
Fighting Position: Build a small defensive structure. Can be upgraded with a Heavy Machine Gun. Holds one squad of infantry and provides cover. Rear Echelon Troops will use rifle grenades when garrisoned inside.
I don't think the rear echelon have flamethrowers which compromises their combat role (vs. soviet engineers, pioneers and sturmpioneers).
They are a 4 man squad are with carbines and this 'suppressive fire ability'. I don't think they even have grenades. IIRC, from the demonstration video they were circa 280 MP (not cheap).