2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Honda CR-V

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS carried over from its third generation, which debuted in 2020. Originally introduced as the GL-Class in 2006, it was meant to replace the G-Class. However, the G-Class remained popular, so the GL-Class found its niche among more pragmatic luxury SUV buyers. The name changed to GLS midway through its second generation. Despite its large size, the 2021 GLS appeared more svelte than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and lines. Inside, it featured a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen covering nearly two-thirds of the dash. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63. Standard features on the GLS 450 included remote keyless entry, remote start, nine USB ports, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, and a power liftgate. The GLS 580 added V8 power and additional luxury features, while the AMG GLS 63 stood out with aggressive bodywork and a performance-inspired interior.

The 2021 Honda CR-V, on the other hand, had a more conventional design that blended in with other compact crossovers. It offered a few distinguishing features like the grille and some chrome accents, but overall, it wasn't a vehicle bought for its looks. Honda offered the CR-V in eight colors, though many were shades of gray, black, or white. The interior came in black, gray, and ivory cloth or leather, depending on the trim. Higher trims featured wood panels and more chrome for an upscale appearance. The CR-V's design was functional, aimed at fitting five people comfortably and carrying their gear. It had 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The higher trims offered features like a power tailgate and roof rails.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 was powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models used a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63 had a hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds and had a top speed of 174 mph. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension system, multiple drive modes, and a hushed, composed ride thanks to E-Active Body Control.

The 2021 Honda CR-V was not designed for high performance but offered smooth, steady acceleration and predictable cornering. All trims had a 190-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine, with a 0-60 mph time of about 7.8 seconds. The CR-V used a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and came standard with front-wheel drive, with all-wheel drive as an option. The suspension setup included a MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear, providing decent handling and ride quality. While not as engaging as some competitors, the CR-V offered a reliable and comfortable driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Seven-passenger seating was standard, but optional second-row captain's chairs reduced capacity to six. The third row was less spacious but still suitable for adults. The GLS had 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 87.4 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded. The driver and front passenger enjoyed plenty of storage compartments, though the center console was relatively small.

The 2021 Honda CR-V aimed to fit five people comfortably and carry their gear. It had 102.9 cubic feet of passenger volume and 75.8 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded. The tailgate could be manually operated on lower trims, while higher trims offered a power tailgate and a hands-free version. Roof rails were standard only on the top Touring trim. The CR-V's interior was functional, with various storage options and a straightforward layout.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a massive touch screen and a trackpad controller. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX system had a voice-control feature that responded to "Hey Mercedes" and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the fully-digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. The system had a learning curve but offered extensive functionality once mastered.

The 2021 Honda CR-V's base LX trim had a 5-inch color screen with Bluetooth connectivity. Other trims featured a 7-inch high-definition touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The audio system varied by trim, with the Touring trim offering a 300-watt system with a subwoofer. Charging ports were plentiful, with USB ports in the front and second rows, and the Touring trim added a wireless phone charger. The Touring trim also included a satellite navigation system with voice recognition.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, rain-sensing wipers, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Other standard features included automatic parking assist, a surround-view camera system, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Available safety tech included lane-keep assist, lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and stop-and-go cruise control. The GLS also had a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Honda CR-V excelled in safety, earning a five-star NHTSA overall crash test rating and an IIHS Top Safety Pick award. It featured the Honda Sensing system, which included a multi-angle rearview camera, forward collision warning, lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, road departure mitigation, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and auto high-beam headlamps. The only feature not standard on the base LX trim was blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, which became standard on the EX trim and above.