2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2022 Nissan Pathfinder

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a symbol of luxury and rugged capability. Its straight-edged, two-box design was a nod to its military origins, yet it had been embraced by celebrities and luxury car enthusiasts alike. The G-Class offered a unique blend of retro styling with modern luxury, featuring a hand-built construction in Graz, Austria. Inside, the G-Class boasted a sophisticated interior with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel, allowing for a customizable and immersive driving experience. Despite its luxurious appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road vehicle, with a design that could be customized extensively through the G Manufaktur Program.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder took a bold step forward with its design, drawing inspiration from Nissan's new era of SUV styling. It featured a modern take on the V-motion grille, reminiscent of the original Pathfinder, and was complemented by LED headlights and a distinctive C-pillar design. The Pathfinder's robust exterior was matched by a spacious and flexible interior, designed with family needs in mind. It offered a variety of seating configurations, including the option for second-row captain's chairs, and boasted best-in-class front-seat legroom. The Pathfinder's interior was thoughtfully designed for practicality, with features like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology, making it easy to access the third row. The Pathfinder's design changes aimed to position it as a more rugged and capable SUV, appealing to families seeking both style and functionality.

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 lb-ft 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 was equipped with advanced off-road capabilities, including adjustable suspension and three independent locking differentials. Despite its size and weight, the G-Class offered a surprisingly nimble driving experience, though its fuel economy was a modest 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder retained its 3.5-liter V6 engine, delivering 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This engine was paired with a new nine-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear transitions. The Pathfinder offered both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations, with the latter featuring seven drive and terrain modes. The Pathfinder's fuel economy was competitive, with an EPA-estimated 21 mpg city and 26 mpg highway for FWD models. The Pathfinder also boasted a 6,000-pound towing capacity, making it a practical choice for families with towing needs.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a spacious and luxurious interior, with 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. The G-Class had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. Its interior was designed for comfort, with ample headroom and legroom, and features like heated seats and a standard sunroof. However, some luxury features, like ventilated seats, were only available as part of expensive packages.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder prioritized interior comfort and flexibility, with a quiet cabin and thoughtful design features. It offered 16.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 80.5 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. The Pathfinder's interior was designed for family use, with features like the EZ Flex Latch and Glide second-row seat technology and a removable second-row center console. The Pathfinder also offered ample storage space, with a front center console providing 13.4 liters of storage.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured advanced technology, with twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These screens were customizable, allowing drivers to tailor the display to their preferences. The G-Class also included a Burmester Surround Sound system, Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, it lacked wireless device charging.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder was equipped with a wealth of technology, including an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 7-inch digital driver-information display. Upper trim levels offered a 9-inch touchscreen, wireless charging, and a 13-speaker Bose Premium Audio system. The Pathfinder's technology was designed to be user-friendly, providing drivers with the features they needed without overwhelming complexity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came with a suite of safety features, including a rearview camera, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, it had not been rated for crash-worthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Nissan Pathfinder included Nissan Safety Shield 360 as standard, offering features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane departure warning. Upper trim levels added a surround-view monitor and an additional airbag. Like the G-Class, the Pathfinder had not been crash-tested by the IIHS or NHTSA.