2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 BMW X5

The 2021 BMW X5 was a testament to BMW's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship, fitting seamlessly into the brand's SUV lineup. Its design was unmistakably BMW, from the iconic kidney grille to its overall body shape, ensuring it stood out as a luxury SUV. However, this familiarity also meant it could blend in with other BMW models in a crowded parking lot. The X5 featured full adaptive LED headlights and a choice of matte aluminum or high-gloss black finishes, depending on the trim. The M Sport models added a sporty flair with body-color matched trims and unique styling elements. Inside, the X5's interior was consistent with BMW's design language, featuring a mix of leather and soft-touch materials, though it was criticized for its abundance of black plastic. The M Sport models offered a more aggressive interior design with exclusive trim and features.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, was a bold statement of rugged luxury. Its design harkened back to its military roots with a boxy, two-box design that was both retro and unique within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The G-Class was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, both offering extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program. The interior was a blend of luxury and functionality, featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel. The G-Class was known for its status symbol appeal, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with luxury features. Despite its luxurious appointments, the G-Class remained a capable off-road machine, staying true to its origins.

The 2021 BMW X5 offered a range of powertrain options, all paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base X5 sDrive40i/xDrive40i featured a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine producing 335 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque. The X5 M50i boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 with 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque, while the X5 M delivered 600 hp, increasing to 617 hp with the Competition Package. The X5 xDrive45e plug-in hybrid model combined a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with a 24-kilowatt-hour battery, achieving 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque, with an all-electric range of up to 30 miles. Despite its power, the X5's driving dynamics were criticized for being less engaging than expected, with steering issues at higher speeds. The X5's fuel efficiency varied, with the xDrive45e achieving 50 MPGe when using both electricity and gas.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550, was a powerhouse with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its size. The G-Class offered a rugged suspension system with adjustable options and three locking differentials for off-road capability. The AMG G63 took performance further with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, the G-Class's fuel economy was less impressive, with the G550 rated at 18 mpg combined and the G63 at 14 mpg combined.

The 2021 BMW X5 made efficient use of space, with well-placed cupholders and a wireless phone charging pad. The seating was comfortable for short trips, though the front seats could feel hard on longer journeys. The rear seats were spacious, and an optional third row was available. The X5's climate controls were user-friendly, and the split liftgate with power functionality made loading cargo easy. The X5 offered ample cargo space, though slightly less in the xDrive45e model. However, the rear doors did not open very wide, making it challenging to move children and cargo in and out.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. It offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The G550 had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The front cabin was roomy, with ample storage and a tall roofline providing excellent headroom. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split-folding seatback. While the G550 featured standard heated seats, ventilated seats were part of expensive packages. The G-Class's spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged styling.

The 2021 BMW X5 came equipped with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The infotainment system included a digital gauge cluster, a 10-speaker sound system, voice recognition, Bluetooth, USB ports, navigation, and more. Optional upgrades included remote start, a head-up display, massaging seats, and premium audio systems. The iDrive system required some acclimation but was user-friendly once mastered.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment, customizable for layout and color. The COMAND system was intuitive, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. The G550 included a Burmester Surround Sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and standard WiFi. However, it lacked wireless device charging. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with Mercedes me connect services for three years.

The 2021 BMW X5 was equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring, forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and more. However, the Driving Assistance Professional Package had issues with adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems, particularly in bright sunlight or rain. The X5 received nearly all Good ratings from the IIHS and a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of standard safety systems, such as active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. The active lane-keeping assist was noted for its abrupt interventions, which could be distracting. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness or safety.