2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Toyota RAV4

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 presented a rugged exterior that set it apart from other compact crossovers. Its boxy fender flares, chiseled taillights, and scowling front end gave it an aggressive look, reminiscent of traditional SUVs. Despite its bold styling, the RAV4 was built on the Toyota New Global Architecture (TNGA) platform, which it shared with other Toyota models like the Camry. This meant that while it looked like a 4Runner, its mechanical components were more akin to a sedan. The RAV4 offered options like the Adventure model with a retro Ice Edge roof and the TRD Off-Road with matte black wheels and red interior accents, enhancing its rugged appeal.

The interior of the RAV4 featured functional touches such as large rubberized knobs and door handles, distinguishing it from other Toyota models. Material quality was decent on lower trims but did not improve significantly with higher trims. The TRD Off-Road model came with SofTex upholstery, which was lighter and more durable than leather, though real leather was not available even on the top-tier RAV4 Limited. Overall, the RAV4's design and features aimed to provide a rugged yet practical family vehicle.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, maintained its iconic boxy design, a hallmark since its debut in 1979. The G-Class was hand-built in Graz, Austria, and offered extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program. Its retro exterior was complemented by a luxurious interior featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin's ambient lighting could be coordinated with the instrument panel colors, creating a personalized atmosphere.

Despite its origins as a military vehicle, the G-Class became a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with luxury features. The G550 model started at $131,750, while the AMG G63 began at $156,450, with prices rising significantly with added options. The G-Class combined rugged capability with opulence, making it a unique offering in the luxury SUV market.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 was powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. This engine, known as the "Dynamic Force," was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and offered either front-wheel drive or optional all-wheel drive. While the engine boasted 40% thermal efficiency and a high revving nature, the transmission struggled to keep up, leading to a less dynamic driving experience. The RAV4's steering was responsive but lacked feel, and the "Sport" mode only added weight to the steering without enhancing performance.

Off-road capabilities were a focus for the RAV4, with the Adventure and TRD Off-Road models featuring a torque-vectoring rear axle and 8.6 inches of ground clearance. The TRD Off-Road also had model-specific suspension tuning and all-terrain tires, allowing it to handle rougher terrain. However, its lack of suspension articulation and shallow approach angles limited its off-road prowess. On the highway, the RAV4 offered a quiet cabin and comfortable ride, but its overall driving dynamics left room for improvement.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivering 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds. The G-Class featured a double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, providing a smooth ride on pavement and impressive off-road capability with 9.5 inches of ground clearance.

The G550's off-road prowess was further enhanced by adjustable suspension, damping options, and three locking differentials. The AMG G63 variant offered even more power, with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the G-Class had a compact turning circle of 44.6 feet. However, its fuel economy was low, with the G550 rated at 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway, and the G63 at 13/16 mpg.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 offered a spacious interior with a tall roofline providing ample headroom and good outward visibility. However, legroom in both rows was slightly behind competitors. The front seats were comfortable, but the rear seats had flat cushions, making long trips less appealing. The RAV4 featured a 60/40 split-folding rear seat, but it did not slide like some competitors. Cargo space was 37.6 cubic feet with the rear seats in place, slightly less than the Honda CR-V. The RAV4's interior included oversized knobs and easy-to-use controls, but storage space was limited.

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

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 came standard with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Amazon Alexa compatibility, and SiriusXM satellite radio. Most trims featured a 7-inch touchscreen, with higher trims offering larger screens. The infotainment system was user-friendly but not particularly advanced, lacking features like a head-up display available on the RAV4 Prime. The RAV4 provided a straightforward interface for in-car technology, appealing to those seeking simplicity.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 boasted twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment, offering customizable layouts and colors. The COMAND system, controlled by unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, provided an immersive experience. The G550 included a Burmester Surround Sound system, WiFi, and standard smartphone connectivity. However, it lacked wireless device charging, and some features required additional subscriptions.

The 2021 Toyota RAV4 received a "Top Safety Pick" rating from the IIHS, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall rating. Standard safety features included Toyota Safety Sense 2.0, with adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and more. Higher trims added blind-spot monitoring and a 360-degree camera system.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 featured standard safety systems like a rearview camera, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, its active lane-keeping assist could be intrusive. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA, but its size and construction provided inherent safety advantages.