2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee was a testament to timeless design, maintaining its appeal over a decade after its debut. It combined rugged utility with upscale sophistication, featuring big wheels and flared fenders that gave it a balanced and artistic look. The Grand Cherokee's design contributed significantly to its success, as it straddled the line between mainstream, luxury, and performance SUV categories. The lineup ranged from the affordable Laredo and Limited trims to the upscale Overland and Summit, with performance models like the SRT and Trackhawk. The Summit trim, in particular, offered a premium look with body-color accents and a platinum chrome finish, while the interior boasted premium materials and a striking color scheme. However, the interior showed signs of aging, with outdated switchgear and non-flush panel fits.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, was a symbol of rugged luxury with its boxy, retro design. The G-Class had a long history, with its first major redesign in 2019. For 2021, it was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, both offering extensive customization options. The G-Class's straight-edged design was a classic two-box style, setting it apart from other Mercedes-Benz vehicles. Inside, it featured a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The G-Class was a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with luxury features. Despite its luxurious appeal, it remained a capable off-road machine.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a standard 3.6-liter V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It could tow up to 6,200 pounds, making it a versatile choice. For those seeking more power, the optional 5.7-liter Hemi V8 delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, with a best-in-class towing capacity of 7,200 pounds. The V8 featured cylinder deactivation technology for improved fuel efficiency, though it achieved only 17 mpg in combined driving. The Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, Quadra-Lift air suspension, and Selec-Terrain traction management made it a capable off-roader. However, the V8's fuel consumption and occasional bounciness on uneven surfaces were drawbacks.

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 lb-ft of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent 4WD, 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. It had a robust suspension system, including double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, providing a smooth ride. The G-Class's off-road capabilities were enhanced by adjustable suspension and three locking differentials. The AMG G63 variant offered even more power, with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, its fuel economy was a concern, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit featured a luxurious interior with quilted leather seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Both front seats offered eight-way power adjustment, heating, and ventilation, though the controls were integrated into the infotainment system, causing some distraction. The rear seat provided comfort but limited legroom for taller passengers. The optional rear-seat entertainment system added to the sense of claustrophobia. Cargo space was 36.3 cubic feet behind the rear seat, expanding to 68.3 cubic feet with the seats folded. However, the Grand Cherokee lacked practical interior storage space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 offered a spacious and luxurious cabin with ample storage options. The front seats were comfortable, and the dashboard design provided a roomy feel. The tall roofline created excellent headroom, and the standard sunroof added to the airy atmosphere. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with ample legroom and a reclining seatback. Cargo capacity was 38.1 cubic feet 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. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available in expensive packages.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee featured the Uconnect 4C with Nav infotainment system, offering a user-friendly experience with fast response times and pleasing graphics. It included navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. The system's voice recognition technology worked well, allowing control of various features through voice commands. The Grand Cherokee offered a premium sound system, with the Summit trim featuring a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. However, the Grand Cherokee was considered "tech lite," lacking some advanced digital features.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 boasted impressive tech features, including twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These screens were customizable for layout, content, and color, creating an immersive experience. The infotainment system ran the latest version of Mercedes-Benz's COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. The G550 included a Burmester Surround Sound system, rear-seat entertainment, and multiple USB and 12-volt outlets. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mercedes me connect services.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee received mixed safety ratings. While it earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA with 4WD, its performance in IIHS testing was less impressive, with "Marginal" and "Poor" ratings in certain crash tests. The Grand Cherokee offered a range of safety features, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. However, its headlights received a "Poor" rating unless upgraded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 offered a range of standard safety features, including a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and more. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness. The active lane-keeping assist system could be distracting, as it intervened abruptly when detecting drifting.