Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Chevrolet Equinox

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, such as a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's robust doors and latches added to its unique character. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents and ambient lighting. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox, positioned between the Trax and Traverse, showcased a familial styling that was both authentic and SUV-like. Its broad fenders, squat roofline, and tall grille gave it a distinctive presence. The Equinox was available in LT, Active, and RS trims, each with unique styling elements. Inside, the cabin was well-assembled, with neat details like large air vents and a spear-like trim piece. The Activ model featured unique microfiber and Evotex seats, while the RS trim offered sporty touches like a flat-bottom steering wheel. Despite its mostly plastic surfaces, the Equinox's interior felt more than basic.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter inline-four engine, producing 175 horsepower. It came with a CVT for FWD models and an eight-speed automatic for AWD models, the latter offering 203 lb-ft of torque. The Equinox's performance was adequate, though the eight-speed automatic sometimes hesitated to downshift. The suspension provided a comfortable ride but lacked body control, making it a great highway cruiser. The Activ trim's all-terrain tires added some off-road capability, but the Equinox's ground clearance remained unchanged.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs. It offered ample headroom but limited legroom due to its tall-yet-short passenger compartment. The G-Class had a maximum towing capacity of 7,716 pounds and 22.6 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats in place. Its design allowed for good forward visibility and easier parking compared to larger rivals.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox provided nearly identical headroom and first-row legroom to its competitors. The rear seats were spacious, though some rivals offered more legroom. The Equinox featured ample storage space, including a wireless phone charger and a spacious center console. It offered 29.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 63.5 cubic feet with them folded. The Equinox's towing capacity was 1,500 pounds for AWD models.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It had dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Notable options included a dashcam and a rear-seat entertainment system. The G-Class also offered augmented reality navigation and excellent voice recognition.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox came with an 11-inch digital instrument cluster and an 11.3-inch touchscreen. Its Android-based infotainment system included Google built-in apps and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The system was user-friendly, with easy-to-identify icons and a shallow menu structure. The Equinox lacked options for a head-up display or a more elaborate audio system but covered the basics well.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. It came with standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The G-Class also featured the Pre-Safe system and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centering.

The 2026 Chevrolet Equinox included standard driver-assistance features such as automatic emergency braking and lane-keep assist. It also offered GM-specific features like a vibrating driver's seat and the Teen Driver system. The Equinox received mixed safety ratings from the IIHS, with Good ratings in some tests and Acceptable ratings in others. The NHTSA had not released ratings for the 2026 model.