2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Toyota 4Runner

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a luxurious yet rugged SUV that appealed to both off-road enthusiasts and those seeking a status symbol. Its exterior, characterized by straight lines and a classic two-box design, was a nod to its military origins. Inside, the G-Class offered a sophisticated cabin with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel, creating a modern and customizable driving environment. Despite its luxury appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road vehicle, with its hand-built construction in Graz, Austria, and extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota 4Runner maintained a more utilitarian and timeless design, with its two-box body and flared fenders. Although its appearance was not universally described as attractive, the 4Runner's design aged well, emphasizing functionality and durability. The interior was practical, with hard plastic materials that were easy to clean and a dashboard featuring large knobs and buttons. The 4Runner's charm lay in its simplicity and ruggedness, making it a reliable choice for those who valued a straightforward, durable SUV that could withstand the test of time.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, with the G550 model featuring a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class boasted impressive off-road capabilities, with features like Dynamic Select driving programs and a robust suspension system. The more powerful AMG G63 variant offered 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 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 Toyota 4Runner, equipped with a 4.0-liter V6 engine, delivered 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Its five-speed automatic transmission and part-time four-wheel drive system provided adequate performance for off-road adventures. The 4Runner excelled in off-road environments, thanks to features like A-Trac traction control and optional upgrades such as a locking rear differential and Crawl Control. However, on paved roads, the 4Runner felt heavy and clunky, with less refined handling compared to modern SUVs. Its fuel economy was also modest, with an EPA rating of 17 mpg combined.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a spacious and luxurious interior, with ample headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The G550 provided 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the seats folded flat. Its body-on-frame construction allowed for a towing capacity of up to 7,700 pounds. While the G-Class featured standard heated seats, some luxury options required additional packages. The exterior spare tire added a distinctive styling cue.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner provided a comfortable interior with supportive seats and generous legroom in the rear. The available sliding cargo deck could hold up to 440 pounds, although it reduced cargo volume. Without the third-row seat, the 4Runner offered up to 47.2 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 89.7 cubic feet with them folded down. The Trail Special Edition's roof rack added extra storage capacity. The 4Runner's interior was practical, with decent storage options and a back bumper that served as a convenient seating area.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its advanced technology, featuring twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These customizable screens, combined with the Burmester Surround Sound system, created an immersive driving experience. The G-Class included the latest version of Mercedes-Benz's COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and WiFi connectivity.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner Trail Special Edition offered a more basic technology package, with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa compatibility, along with SiriusXM satellite radio and USB ports. The premium audio upgrade added dynamic navigation and voice recognition features. The 4Runner's infotainment system was user-friendly, with physical buttons and knobs for easy operation, even while wearing gloves.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class prioritized safety with its rugged construction and a suite of standard safety features. These included a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness.

The 2021 Toyota 4Runner came with Toyota Safety Sense P (TSS-P), which included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and automatic high-beam headlights. However, it lacked blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic warning. The 4Runner received mixed safety ratings, with a three-star rollover resistance rating from the NHTSA and a "Marginal" rating for small overlap frontal-impact protection from the IIHS.