Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Chevrolet Trax

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite its evolution into a more luxurious vehicle, the G-Class maintained its distinctive features, such as a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Subtle styling updates for 2025 included a new grille and bumpers, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim enhanced its practicality. The interior was opulent, with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, creating a sci-fi ambiance. The AMG models featured sportier steering wheels, adding to the vehicle's character.

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax, on the other hand, transformed from its previous iteration into a more car-like crossover with SUV styling elements. Its design featured Blazer-like headlights, a wide grille, and a sleek profile with a laid-back windshield. The Trax's lineup included various trim levels, each with distinct wheel designs and styling cues. Inside, the Trax offered a basic yet thoughtfully designed interior with large air vents and contrasting trim. The layout of the instrument cluster and touchscreen was reminiscent of a Corvette, and the use of economical materials was cleverly masked by design details. The Trax provided a comfortable ride with ample legroom for rear passengers, making it a practical choice for those seeking affordability and style.

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

In contrast, the 2026 Chevrolet Trax was equipped with a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine, producing 137 horsepower and 162 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the Trax offered a spirited driving experience with no discernible turbo lag. The conventional automatic transmission contributed to its drivability, and the Trax felt stable and car-like on twisty roads. While not designed for performance, the Trax provided a comfortable ride with active noise cancellation, although some tire noise and engine drone were present.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom. Its compact dimensions made it easier to maneuver and park compared to larger rivals. However, cargo space was limited, with 22.6 cubic feet available behind the rear seats. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 7,716 pounds, which, while respectable, fell short of some competitors. The vehicle's design provided good forward visibility, and its relatively short length and narrow width made it more practical for urban environments.

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax offered competitive interior space for a small crossover, with generous rear-seat legroom compared to rivals. It provided 25.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, comparable to a Honda Civic hatchback. The Trax's tall seating position facilitated easy ingress and egress, and forward visibility was impressive. While the front seats were positioned inboard, limiting center console storage, the Trax featured large door pockets and cup holders. However, the wireless device charger struggled to hold phones securely.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) infotainment system with standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It boasted dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a seamless display across the dashboard. The off-road menu provided useful information for adventurous drivers, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the driving experience, while a Burmester 3D surround sound system delivered premium audio. Optional features included a dashcam and rear-seat entertainment system.

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax came with an 8-inch touchscreen and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto connectivity on the base model, while higher trims featured an 11-inch touchscreen and a six-speaker sound system. The digital instrument cluster was easy to read, and the touchscreen layout was intuitive. However, the screen's angle favored the driver, making it less accessible for the front passenger. The climate controls and volume knob were also challenging to reach for passengers, impacting overall ergonomics.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, typical for low-volume luxury models. Standard driver-assistance features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for potential crashes, and new features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centering, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2026 Chevrolet Trax offered standard driver-assist features such as automatic emergency braking, lane keep assist, and forward collision warning. Higher trims had additional options like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. The Teen Driver monitoring system provided added safety for young drivers. However, the Trax received a "Poor" rating in the IIHS moderate overlap front crash test, raising concerns about its safety performance.