2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Audi Q3

The 2021 Audi Q3 showcased a design that embraced the era of postmodern automotive styling. Its massive corporate grille complemented the stout, chunky styling, which suggested utility and dynamic handling, though it primarily delivered on the latter. Inside, the cabin echoed a mechanical, modern aesthetic, with a dash design that framed the center touchscreen, highlighting one of the Q3’s standout features. While the interior design was initially a standout when it debuted in 2019, the advancements in Volkswagen's interiors made the Q3 feel modern and refined, albeit less unique.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, retained its iconic boxy design, a classic two-box style that appealed to those seeking a rugged, retro exterior. The G-Class stood out in the Mercedes-Benz lineup with its straight body lines and robust appearance. Inside, the G-Class offered a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The interior allowed for customization of colors and ambient lighting, creating a personalized atmosphere. Despite its military origins, the G-Class became a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and luxurious finishes.

The 2021 Audi Q3 was equipped with a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive. The S-Line trim offered a more powerful version of the same engine, delivering 228 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. This optional power unit, previously standard, was available for an additional $2,000, with the base MSRP reduced by the same amount. The more potent powertrain provided lively performance, especially in Sport mode, which enhanced throttle response and transmission mapping. The Q3 featured Audi’s Drive Select with multiple modes, including Off-Road, though it was best suited for light trails. The base engine exhibited some turbo lag, particularly under hard acceleration or during highway passing. Overall, the Q3 offered nimble handling and a comfortable ride, striking a balance between engagement and refinement.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, specifically the G550 model, housed a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, generating 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. It utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters and permanent four-wheel drive. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound curb weight. The SUV featured Dynamic Select driving programs, including “G-mode” for off-roading, and boasted a 9.5-inch ground clearance. The G-Class had a turning circle of 44.6 feet and offered adjustable suspension and damping, along with three independent locking differentials. The AMG G63 variant elevated performance with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the G-Class delivered a supple ride on pavement, though its fuel economy was notably low, with ratings of 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 Audi Q3 provided 48 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded and 23.7 cubic feet behind the rear seats. While the space behind the seats was decent for a subcompact luxury SUV, the overall cargo capacity was subpar for the class. However, the Q3 compensated with ample passenger space, offering comfortable front seats with deep cargo pockets and impressive headroom and legroom in the rear. It could seat five, though four passengers would enjoy a more comfortable road trip experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550, offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. It had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The front cabin was spacious, with comfortable seats and ample storage. The tall roofline provided excellent headroom, and the wide second row accommodated three adults comfortably. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available in expensive packages. The G550’s spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, serving as both a convenient feature and a styling cue.

The 2021 Audi Q3 came standard with an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment system running Audi’s MMI system, featuring logical menu navigation, Android Auto, and wireless Apple CarPlay. An upgraded 10.1-inch touchscreen with navigation was available, along with wireless device charging, satellite radio, and a Bang & Olufsen 15-speaker premium audio system. The Audi Virtual Cockpit replaced the conventional instrument cluster with a customizable digital display, capable of presenting the navigation map across the screen.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment duties. These screens were customizable for layout, content, and color, allowing coordination with ambient lighting for an immersive experience. The infotainment system ran the latest Mercedes-Benz COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for content control. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, and the G550 included three USB and two 12-volt outlets. WiFi was standard with a one-month trial, though wireless device charging was absent. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes me connect services.

The 2021 Audi Q3 featured standard safety equipment, including Audi Pre Sense and Pre Sense Front, which offered forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection. Lane-departure warning was also standard. Optional features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and traffic-sign recognition. Additional options included a 360-degree camera system, front-and-rear parking sensors, and self-parking assist.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of standard safety systems, such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, active parking assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The active lane-keeping assist could be abrupt, requiring a full understanding of its operation. The G-Class had not been rated for crash-worthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA.