2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Chevrolet Trax

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax continued to build on the design updates it received in 2017, maintaining a modern yet familiar look. The vehicle was available in two trims, LS and LT, after the Premier trim was discontinued. The LS trim featured 16-inch painted aluminum wheels, remote keyless entry, and a 7-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The LT trim added more upscale features like heated, power-adjustable side mirrors, LED lighting, and upgraded seating materials. Despite its compact size, the Trax offered a practical and straightforward design, appealing to urban drivers seeking functionality.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, was a symbol of luxury and ruggedness. Its boxy, retro exterior design was a nod to its military origins, while the interior boasted a sophisticated layout with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and virtual instrument panel. 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 G-Class was not just a status symbol but also a capable off-road machine, appealing to those who desired both luxury and performance.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax was powered by a turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 138 horsepower and 177 pound-feet of torque. It was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, offering front-wheel drive as standard and all-wheel drive as an option. While the engine was adequate for city driving, it struggled to deliver power at highway speeds, making it less suitable for long-distance travel. The Trax's firm ride and tight turning radius made it a practical choice for urban environments, though it lacked the driving excitement found in some of its competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550 model, was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This powerhouse allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The AMG G63 variant took performance to another level with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the G-Class offered impressive agility and off-road capability, though its fuel economy was notably low.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax provided a decent amount of headroom and legroom in both rows, with supportive front seats but less comfortable rear seats. It offered 18.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 48.4 cubic feet with the seats folded. The front passenger seat could also fold flat for larger items. However, the Trax lacked options for a power liftgate, limiting its convenience for loading and unloading cargo.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. It offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 68.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. The G550's cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and featured numerous storage compartments. While luxury features like heated seats were standard, some options required expensive packages. The G-Class's exterior spare tire was both a practical feature and a styling cue, enhancing its rugged appeal.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax came standard with a 7-inch touchscreen running the Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system, featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth connectivity. The system was user-friendly, with clear graphics and intuitive menus. It also offered two USB ports and an available WiFi hotspot, providing basic connectivity for tech-savvy drivers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted advanced technology with twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These customizable screens allowed drivers to tailor the display to their preferences, complemented by ambient lighting for a personalized experience. The G-Class featured the latest COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. Standard tech included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester Surround Sound system, though wireless charging was notably absent.

The 2021 Chevrolet Trax received a five-star crash test rating from the NHTSA but lacked advanced safety features. Standard safety equipment included airbags and a backup camera, with optional blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-path detection available in the LT Convenience Package. However, the Trax fell short compared to rivals offering more comprehensive safety systems.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came equipped with a suite of advanced safety features, including active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. Its robust construction provided inherent safety advantages, though its size required careful handling. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its extensive safety systems offered peace of mind for drivers.