2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC was a testament to the brand's commitment to a timeless aesthetic, characterized by soft curves and rounded edges. Despite its modern aggression, highlighted by menacing LED headlights, the GLC maintained a more refined appearance compared to its competitors. Its long hood and wide grille gave it a dramatic stance, reminiscent of a raised C-Class or E-Class sedan, emphasizing its car-like characteristics. Inside, the GLC's cabin was an automotive masterpiece, with soft lines and curves extending into the flowing dash. The floating center touchscreen with rounded edges complemented the minimalist approach Mercedes was moving towards, setting a high standard for compact luxury SUV interiors.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, embraced a rugged, retro exterior with its classic two-box design and straight body lines. This boxy SUV stood out in the Mercedes lineup, offering a unique appeal. Inside, the G-Class featured a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin was spacious, with a tall roofline providing ample headroom and a sense of airiness. The G-Class was a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with luxurious touches, yet it remained a capable, go-anywhere machine.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC 300 came equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. This power was delivered through a nine-speed automatic transmission, with options for rear-wheel drive or 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The GLC offered a balanced driving experience, with steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters and Dynamic Select drive modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, and Sport+. While not overly sporty, the GLC provided sufficient power and a responsive powertrain, making it a refined and enjoyable drive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, specifically the G550, housed a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, generating 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. Despite its hefty curb weight of 5,551 pounds, the G550 was surprisingly quick, reaching 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent four-wheel drive and Dynamic Select driving programs, including a "G-mode" for off-roading. The G-Class offered a supple ride on pavement, with a combination of independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, making it a capable off-road vehicle as well.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC provided 56.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, while the GLC Coupe offered 49.4 cubic feet due to its fastback profile. The GLC's interior was well-designed, with a decently sized center console and deep door pockets for storage. Rear-seat space was adequate, with ample legroom and headroom in the SUV, although the Coupe's low roofline reduced headroom.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550, offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded flat. The G550 had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The front cabin was roomy, with comfortable seats and ample storage options. The tall roofline provided excellent headroom, and the second row accommodated three adults comfortably. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available as part of expensive packages.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system, with a 10.25-inch center touchscreen and an advanced voice-control system. The system was intuitive, offering both a touch controller and touchscreen for navigation. The steering wheel had touch-sensitive pads for customizing the digital instrument panel and navigating the infotainment screen. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto were included, although switching between the GLC's radio and smartphone apps could be cumbersome.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment duties. 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 G-Class included a rear-seat entertainment system, multiple USB and 12-volt outlets, and standard WiFi, although wireless device charging was not available.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLC came equipped with standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, forward collision warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. It also featured front- and rear parking sensors, hands-free parking assist, and a driver drowsiness monitor. However, the parking and proximity sensors were overly sensitive, causing distractions. Optional safety features included a 360-degree parking camera, dynamic cruise control, automatic high beams, and lane departure warning.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of standard safety systems, such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. The active lane-keeping assist was a notable feature, although it could be abrupt and distracting. The G-Class had not been rated for crash-worthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA.