2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride was available in four trim levels: LX, S, EX, and SX, with options for front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Its base pricing ranged from $32,190 to $42,490, excluding destination charges. The Telluride SX trim, especially with the Prestige option package, was popular for its luxury features at a mainstream price, including premium stitched Nappa leather and a head-up display. The Nightfall Edition package added a blacked-out look with gloss black 20-inch aluminum wheels. The Telluride's styling was praised for its contemporary design and quality execution, with a solid and smooth transmission shifter enhancing the driving experience. However, interior color options were limited to black or gray unless opting for the SX trim.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, had a long history dating back to 1979. For the 2021 model year, it was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, with starting prices of $131,750 and $156,450, respectively. The G-Class was renowned for its boxy, rugged design, reminiscent of its military origins, and was a status symbol among the elite. Inside, it featured a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The G-Class was highly customizable through the G Manufaktur Program, offering over a million possible combinations for interior and exterior customization.

The 2021 Kia Telluride was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered various driving modes, including Snow, Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Smart, through Kia's Drive Mode Select technology. The optional all-wheel drive included a low-speed Lock function for enhanced traction, making it capable of handling challenging terrains. The Telluride's suspension tuning minimized head-toss, providing a smooth ride even on uneven surfaces. It achieved an EPA fuel economy rating of 21 mpg in combined driving, with a tested average of 20.5 mpg.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine delivering 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque, coupled with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The G550's suspension system, with double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, provided a supple ride with minimal body roll. The G-Class offered impressive off-road capabilities, with adjustable suspension and three locking differentials. The AMG G63 variant boasted a more powerful engine, producing 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, its fuel economy was less efficient, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 Kia Telluride excelled in comfort and utility, with a spacious interior and thoughtful design. The SX trim offered a 14-way power-adjustable driver's seat with heating and ventilation, while the second-row captain's chairs provided heating and ventilation as well. The third-row seat was accessible and suitable for adults, with a button for easy access. The Telluride offered ample storage solutions, including smartphone storage pouches and a smart hands-free power liftgate. It provided 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 87 cubic feet with the seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 offered a roomy front cabin with comfortable seats and ample storage. The tall roofline provided excellent headroom, and the second row accommodated three adults comfortably. The G550 had a cargo capacity of 38.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. It could tow up to 7,700 pounds, thanks to its body-on-frame construction. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available as part of expensive packages.

The 2021 Kia Telluride came equipped with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The EX and SX trims featured a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and additional upgrades. Kia's UVO Link connected services offered various plans, including remote engine start and climate control operation. The Telluride's infotainment system was user-friendly, with menu shortcut buttons and intuitive touchscreen operation. The SX trim included a 10-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system and features like Driver Talk and Quiet Mode for enhanced convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment, offering customizable layouts and content. The COMAND system, controlled by unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, provided advanced functionality. The G550 included a Burmester Surround Sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. WiFi was standard with a one-month trial, but wireless device charging was not available.

The 2021 Kia Telluride featured a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Highway Drive Assist, available on EX and SX trims, offered semi-autonomous driving capabilities. The Telluride earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS and a 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA, although its headlights received a Poor rating.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 included standard safety systems such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, active lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the G-Class had not been rated for crash-worthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA. The active lane-keeping assist system could be intrusive, requiring drivers to understand its operation fully.