2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Land Rover Defender

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally launched as the GL-Class in 2006, it was designed to replace the G-Class, but the latter's popularity ensured its survival. The GLS appealed to affluent families with its three rows of seating and a comfortable interior, serving as a sophisticated alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The exterior design of the GLS was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that gave it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen that spanned much of the dashboard, highlighting its tech-centric nature. The GLS was available in three trims: GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63, each offering a range of luxurious features and options.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender, on the other hand, was a modern reinterpretation of a classic icon. The original Defender, with its distinctive boxy design and rugged character, had been a staple since 1948. The new Defender retained some of the classic design cues, such as the flat-topped fenders and floating roof, while incorporating modern elements like half-round LED headlights. The interior of the Defender emphasized an exposed structure theme, with a dash that appeared to be held between horizontal beams and controls that were robust and tactile. The cabin was designed to be both luxurious and durable, with high-quality materials throughout. The Defender's design was both functional and stylish, making it a standout in both urban and off-road environments.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 stepped up with 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, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds. The GLS 63 also featured an adaptive air suspension system, providing a smooth ride and precise handling. Multiple drive modes allowed drivers to customize the vehicle's performance to their liking, making the GLS a versatile and dynamic SUV.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender was equipped with two powertrains in the U.S. The base model featured a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four engine, producing 296 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque. The more powerful option was a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six mild-hybrid setup, offering 395 hp and 406 lb-ft. Both engines were paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4WD with low range and Terrain Response. The Defender's off-road capabilities were impressive, with features like a 30.1-degree approach angle, 37.6-degree departure angle, and a maximum wading depth of 35.4 inches. On-road, the Defender was quick and comfortable, with the 3.0-liter model reaching 0-60 mph in 5.8 seconds. The Defender also boasted a towing capacity of 8,200 pounds, making it a versatile choice for both adventure and everyday use.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with three rows of seating, providing ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row passengers. The standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while not as roomy, was still suitable for adults. The GLS provided 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 down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a center console with butterfly doors.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender, built on a unibody platform, offered a flexible interior configuration. The Defender 110 model provided the option of a jump seat between the front seats and a third-row seat for two in the long-wheelbase version. The second row was spacious, and the Defender 110 offered 34.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expanding to 78.8 cubic feet with the second row folded. The independent suspension system contributed to a comfortable ride and allowed for a versatile interior layout.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, which included a large touchscreen and a trackpad for easy navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. The MBUX system also offered voice control, allowing users to activate it with phrases like "Hey Mercedes." The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel, providing a customizable and tech-savvy driving experience.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender introduced the Pivi Pro infotainment system, featuring a 10-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, with multiple USB and 12-volt outlets throughout the cabin. The Defender also offered a 3D surround-camera system with a "transparent hood" view, useful for off-roading. The audio system could be upgraded to a Meridian sound system, and a ClearSight rear-view mirror provided a camera view for improved visibility.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety options included lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and a following-distance indicator. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Land Rover Defender, while not yet rated by NHTSA or IIHS, offered a robust set of standard safety features. These included a perimeter alarm, front airbags with a passenger seat occupant monitor, electronic traction control, dynamic stability control, and emergency braking. The Defender also featured blind spot assist, lane-keep assist, and a 360-degree parking aid, ensuring a safe driving experience both on and off the road.