2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Land Rover Range Rover

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, with its three rows and plush interior, became a family-friendly alternative to other large SUVs like the Navigator and Escalade. The 2021 model featured a more refined exterior with softened angles, giving it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric design. 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. The AMG GLS 63 stood out with its aggressive styling and performance-inspired interior.

In contrast, the 2021 Land Rover Range Rover evolved from its rugged origins into a symbol of luxury. Initially a utilitarian vehicle, it transitioned to a more upscale offering, especially after the introduction of a four-door version. The 2021 model started at $92,000, with the potential to exceed $250,000 with various upgrades. Our test vehicle, the HSE Westminster special edition, was priced at $106,715 and featured standard paint, wheels, and leather. Despite its age, the Range Rover maintained a timeless design with hallmark features like blacked-out pillars and clean lines. Inside, it exuded luxury with a high-contrast Ivory interior and mid-century modern ambiance. However, the infotainment system, though digital, was less intuitive than newer models. The Range Rover's design drew heavily from its heritage, much like a Porsche 911, offering a blend of modernity and tradition.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, 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 used a nine-speed automatic transmission paired with Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive. 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. This powerhouse could accelerate from zero to 60 mph in just 4.1 seconds, reaching a top speed of 174 mph. The GLS 63 featured an adaptive air suspension, adjustable ground clearance, and multiple drive modes, enhancing its performance and handling. Despite its size, the GLS offered a smooth, composed ride, easily maneuverable in urban settings.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover provided a variety of powertrain options, including turbodiesel V6, supercharged V8, mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid choices. The HSE Westminster edition came with a mild-hybrid turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 395 horsepower and 406 pound-feet of torque. It featured a flawless eight-speed automatic transmission and standard four-wheel drive with a two-speed transfer case, ensuring its off-road prowess. The Range Rover's adaptive air suspension offered a classic wafting ride, while its high seating position provided a commanding view. However, its steering was relatively slow, and the suspension struggled to manage the vehicle's weight and tall center of gravity on winding roads. The Range Rover excelled in comfort and luxury, but its performance was best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Fuel economy was modest, with an average of 18.5 mpg during testing.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while less spacious, accommodated full-size adults comfortably. 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 rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a combination cup-holder/wireless-charging pad.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's air suspension offered a kneel mode for easier access, though shorter passengers found entry challenging. The front seats were decadently comfortable, wrapped in quality leather, but the second row lacked thigh support and adjustability, resulting in an uncomfortable seating position. Despite this, the rear offered luxury features like quad-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats. Storage space was limited, with dual glove compartments compensating for a small center-console bin. Cargo space was also restricted, with 25 cubic feet available behind the rear seats and 59.8 cubic feet with them folded. A suspension kneel function aided loading, and a rear-seat center section allowed for longer items.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and a trackpad for control. It included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connection. The MBUX system offered voice control, activated by saying "Mercedes" or "Hey Mercedes," and could understand complex commands. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system made the GLS's technology more manageable.

The 2021 Land Rover Range Rover's digital instrumentation and infotainment were spread across three displays, offering numerous features and functions. The InControl Touch Pro Duo system, while not entirely intuitive, was manageable for those familiar with smartphones or tablets. However, using the touchscreens while driving was distracting, and the head-up display was not visible with polarized sunglasses. The Range Rover included a waterproof Activity Key wristband, allowing the key fob to be left inside the vehicle during activities. An iGuide smartphone app served as a digital owner's manual, assisting with the system's complexities.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, forward-collision avoidance, blind-spot monitoring, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech 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 Range Rover included standard safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Optional packages added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera. The HSE Westminster Edition included the Drive Pro and Park packages, though the adaptive cruise control was slow to respond. Overall, the safety features were effective, but more advanced technology required additional packages.