2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 2.5 Turbo was a striking vehicle with its shiny black 18-inch wheels, grille, and side mirror housings, complemented by thick matte black body cladding. This design choice gave the CX-30 a unique and bold appearance, setting it apart from its sibling, the Mazda3 hatchback. The elevated stance of the CX-30, both visually and physically, contributed to its distinct identity. Inside, the cabin mirrored the Mazda3's upscale vibe, featuring quality materials, complementary tones, and stitched chocolate brown surfaces. The interior changes were subtle, with a chrome accent around the engine start button and a frameless rearview mirror. The SUV offered a choice of black or Griege leatherette upholstery, with black or white leather available in higher trims. Pricing for the CX-30 Turbo ranged from approximately $31,000 to $35,000, with our test vehicle priced at $35,745.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, was a testament to rugged luxury. Its boxy, straight-edged design was a nod to its military origins, yet it exuded a retro charm that was unmatched in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The G-Class was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, with starting prices of $131,750 and $156,450, respectively. The G-Wagen's appeal lay in its hand-built craftsmanship and extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program. Inside, the G-Class featured a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin's multicolor ambient lighting allowed for a personalized atmosphere. Despite its luxurious transformation, the G-Class retained its rugged capabilities, making it a status symbol for the elite.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo was equipped with a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering between 227 and 250 horsepower depending on the fuel's octane rating. With torque ranging from 310 to 320 lb-ft, the CX-30 Turbo offered effortless acceleration. Its six-speed automatic transmission, standard i-Activ all-wheel-drive system, and G-Vectoring Control Plus technology contributed to a refined driving experience. The CX-30 Turbo's fuel economy was rated at 25 mpg combined, with a real-world average of 24.1 mpg. Despite its added height and weight, the CX-30 Turbo maintained a balance between on-road performance and off-road capability, thanks to its 2.5 inches of extra ground clearance and Off-Road mode.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550, was a powerhouse with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. The G550's nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, along with Dynamic Select driving programs, ensured a versatile driving experience. The G550 could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound curb weight. The G-Class featured a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, providing a supple ride on pavement. The AMG G63 variant took performance to another level with 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in just 4.5 seconds. However, the G-Class's fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo offered a comfortable and driver-focused interior with eight-way power adjustment for the driver's seat. Heated front seats and a heated steering wheel were standard in higher trims, though ventilated seats were not available. The cabin's minimalist design and high-quality materials created a sense of spaciousness, despite the CX-30's compact size. Rear-seat accommodations were cramped, but rear-seat air conditioning vents provided some comfort. The CX-30 Turbo offered 20.2 cubic feet of cargo space, expandable to 45.2 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. The G550's front cabin was roomy, with ample storage and a tall roofline providing excellent headroom. The second row offered generous legroom and a reclining seatback, accommodating three adults comfortably. Cargo capacity was impressive, with 38.1 cubic feet behind the third row and 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The G550's body-on-frame construction allowed for a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. However, some luxury features, like ventilated seats, were only available as part of expensive packages.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo featured an 8.8-inch infotainment display operated through physical controls and voice commands. While the system required acclimation, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provided familiar digital assistants. Premium trims included SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. The Active Driving Display projected useful data onto the windshield, enhancing safety and convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These customizable screens, combined with ambient lighting and a Burmester Surround Sound system, created an immersive experience. The COMAND system, controlled via unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, offered advanced functionality. The G550 included standard WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, though wireless device charging was absent.

The 2021 Mazda CX-30 Turbo earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with a full suite of i-ActiveSense advanced driving assistance systems. Premium trims added features like adaptive front lighting, parking sensors, and Traffic Jam Assist. The CX-30 Turbo also included a mobile 9-1-1 emergency notification system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured a robust suite of safety systems, including active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. The G550's size and weight provided inherent safety advantages, but drivers were reminded of the responsibility that came with operating such a large vehicle.