2021 Jeep Wrangler vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the original GL-Class. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS found its niche among affluent families seeking a more practical yet opulent vehicle. Its design was less imposing than its predecessors, with softened angles and sleek lines that belied its size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric nature. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a premium sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and convenience.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler maintained its iconic styling, reminiscent of a rugged toy truck for adults. Its design elements, such as circular headlights and a seven-slat grille, remained unchanged, ensuring it was unmistakable on the road. The Wrangler's interior was functional rather than luxurious, with upright seating and limited legroom, appealing to those who valued charm over comfort. Available in trims like Sport, Sport S, Sahara, and Rubicon, the Wrangler offered a range of configurations, from bare-bones to near-luxury. The Rubicon 392, with its Hemi V8, stood out for its off-road prowess and distinctive features like a raised hood and dual-mode exhaust.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0-60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes provided a smooth, composed ride, even on rough roads, while maintaining agility in urban settings.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered a diverse powertrain lineup, including a standard 3.6-liter V6 with 285 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmission. Other options included a mild-hybrid eTorque variant, a 270-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, and a 3.0-liter EcoDiesel V6 with 260 hp and 442 lb-ft. The Rubicon 392, with its 6.4-liter V8, produced 470 hp and 470 lb-ft, transforming the Wrangler into an off-road powerhouse. The Wrangler's 4WD systems, including Command-Trac, Select-Trac, and Rock-Trac, catered to various off-roading needs, with features like locking differentials and a disconnectable sway bar enhancing its trail capabilities.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS provided spacious seating across three rows, accommodating up to seven passengers, with optional second-row captain's chairs reducing capacity to six. The front and second rows offered ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for adults. The GLS excelled in cargo space, offering 17.4 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 42.7 cubic feet with it folded, and a total of 87.4 cubic feet with both rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a large center console and in-door bins.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered various top options, including the zipper-less Sunrider soft-top and the Freedom hardtop with removable panels. The Rubicon 392 featured the Sky one-touch power top, combining convenience with the open-air experience. The Wrangler's cabin prioritized function, with a small center console, glovebox, and in-door cargo nets. It provided 31.7 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expanding to 72.4 cubic feet with them folded. However, the presence of wheel-wells and roll-bars could limit the storage of larger items.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The MBUX system's voice control allowed for complex commands, enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel, offering customizable display options.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler's technology varied by trim, with the Sport featuring a basic 5-inch screen. The 7-inch Uconnect screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto was optional on the Sport S and standard on higher trims. The 8.4-inch Uconnect screen offered crisp graphics and intuitive controls. The Rubicon 392 included a color TFT screen in the instrument panel and an off-road camera, providing a clear view of the trail ahead.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, and blind-spot monitoring. Additional safety tech, such as lane-keep assist and adaptive cruise control, was available. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler offered optional safety features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. However, many modern driver-assistance features were not standard. The Wrangler included a backup camera with dynamic guidelines and a live tire-pressure monitoring system, useful for off-roading.