2021 Cadillac XT5 vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 represented a significant step forward for Cadillac in its quest to reclaim its status as a leader in luxury vehicles. The XT5's design updates from the previous year carried over, showcasing a more refined and sophisticated exterior with standard LED lights and 20-inch wheels. Inside, the XT5 offered a more upscale interior than its GM sibling, the Chevrolet Blazer, with cut and sewn leather, natural wood, and carbon fiber accents. The Premium Luxury trim level, in particular, exuded elegance, although it didn't quite match the opulence of the Escalade. The interior design favored simplicity and thoughtful material placement, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, maintained its iconic boxy design, a hallmark since its debut in 1979. The G-Class's rugged exterior was complemented by a luxurious and spacious interior, featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin's design was both tasteful and functional, with ample storage and comfortable seating for both front and rear passengers. The G-Class's retro exterior and luxurious interior made it a status symbol among the elite, while its off-road capabilities remained intact, making it a versatile choice for those seeking both luxury and adventure.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a choice between two engines: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine producing 237 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, and a 3.6-liter V6 engine delivering 310 horsepower and 237 pound-feet of torque. Both engines were paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, which provided smooth upshifts but was less refined during downshifts. The XT5's throttle response was immediate with the V6, although it could benefit from additional low-end torque. The XT5 achieved an impressive 25 mpg during testing, surpassing the EPA-estimated 21 mpg combined fuel economy for the V6 AWD model.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, specifically the G550 model, featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine generating 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This powerful engine allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class's performance was further enhanced by its nine-speed automatic transmission, permanent four-wheel drive, and Dynamic Select driving programs, including the "G-mode" for off-roading. The G550's fuel economy was less impressive, with EPA ratings of 13 mpg city, 19 mpg highway, and 18 mpg combined. The AMG G63 variant offered even more power, with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 provided seating for four adults in two rows, with a three-seat bench in the second row. While legroom was adequate, taller passengers found the rear headroom lacking. The XT5 offered 30 cubic feet of cargo space, which was less than some competitors but featured a deep rear cargo area. The SUV's cargo-management system allowed for secure storage, and a hands-free programmable height liftgate was available. However, small-item storage was limited, with no convenient place for a smartphone within eyesight.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. 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. The G-Class's front cabin was roomy, with comfortable seats and ample storage options. The tall roofline provided excellent headroom, and the second row accommodated three adults comfortably. While the G550 featured standard heated seats, ventilated front seats were part of expensive packages. The G-Class's spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged styling.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 featured a streamlined infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen housed in Piano Black plastic. The system included a rotary controller on the center console, which some found cluttered the screen's aesthetics. The XT5 offered one-touch phone pairing, an eight-speaker Bose sound system, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 4G LTE WiFi hotspot and a 14-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system were available. The XT5's rear camera mirror was useful at night but distracting during the day.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system, offering customizable layouts and colors. The G-Class's COMAND system was controlled via unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, providing more functionality than traditional controls. The G550 included a Burmester Surround Sound system, three USB ports, and two 12-volt outlets. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, while wireless device charging was not available.

The 2021 Cadillac XT5 offered a range of safety features, including front automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and lane-change alert with side blind-zone alert. The XT5's Night Vision technology enhanced nighttime drivability, while General Motors' Teen Driver software allowed parents to monitor and limit vehicle features for young drivers. The XT5 had not been rated by major safety organizations.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class included a comprehensive suite of safety systems, such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, and active brake assist. The G-Class's active lane-keeping assist was noted for its abrupt intervention, which could be distracting. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness.