2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Lexus GX

The 2021 Lexus GX retained its rugged and aggressive exterior styling, a testament to its decade-long presence in the market. Despite its age, the GX's design remained coherent, with the massive spindle grille and triple-beam LED headlights adding a distinctive touch. However, the interior did not match the modern luxury SUV standards, with wood trim that felt like molded plastic and an abundance of actual plastic. While leather upholstery was standard, the overall interior ambiance felt dated, lacking the refinement expected in a luxury vehicle.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, boasted a retro exterior design that was both rugged and iconic. Its boxy shape and straight lines were a nod to its military origins, yet it exuded a unique charm within the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Inside, the G-Class offered a tasteful and luxurious cabin, featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel. The interior was spacious and comfortable, with a focus on creating a personalized atmosphere through customizable ambient lighting and high-quality materials.

The 2021 Lexus GX was powered by a 4.6-liter V8 engine, delivering 301 horsepower and 329 pound-feet of torque, paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. While the V8 provided ample power for initial acceleration, the GX's 5,130-pound weight became apparent at higher speeds, requiring careful planning for merging and overtaking. The body-on-frame construction contributed to a less refined ride quality, with noticeable body roll and low grip in corners. However, the GX excelled in off-road capability, featuring a Torsen center differential, standard 4WD with low range, and various driver aids for tackling challenging terrains.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550 model, impressed with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain, combined with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent 4WD, allowed the G550 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class offered a smooth ride on pavement, thanks to its advanced suspension system, while maintaining impressive off-road capabilities with adjustable suspension, locking differentials, and generous ground clearance. The AMG G63 variant further amplified performance with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.

The interior of the 2021 Lexus GX revealed its age, with limited legroom due to the upright dashboard and high center console. The steering wheel's odd angle and tall seating position contributed to a bus-like driving feel. While outward visibility was excellent, forward visibility was hindered by the tall hood. The GX offered three rows of seating, but the third row was best suited for children, and accessing it was cumbersome. Cargo space was limited, with only 64.7 cubic feet available with the second and third rows folded, making it more practical as a two-row SUV.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class excelled in interior space and functionality. The front cabin was roomy, with ample storage options and a tall roofline providing excellent headroom. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split-folding design for added versatility. While luxury features like heated seats were standard, some options required expensive packages. The G-Class offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. Its body-on-frame construction allowed for a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds.

The 2021 Lexus GX was light on tech features, lacking Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The standard infotainment system felt outdated, with graphics reminiscent of the 1990s. However, Lexus provided analog controls for most functions, offering a straightforward interface. The GX included Bluetooth, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant connectivity, along with a 17-speaker Mark Levinson audio system as an option.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its advanced technology. The available twin 12.3-inch HD screens handled both instrument panel and infotainment duties, offering customizable layouts and content. The COMAND system, combined with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, provided an intuitive interface. The G-Class included standard features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and WiFi, with a Burmester Surround Sound system enhancing the audio experience.

The 2021 Lexus GX came equipped with the Lexus Safety System+ bundle, featuring forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. However, it lacked some advanced safety features found in other Lexus models, such as traffic-sign recognition and Lane Tracing Assist. The GX had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS for crash-worthiness.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a comprehensive suite of safety features, including active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. While its size and weight provided inherent safety advantages, the G-Class had not been rated by the NHTSA or IIHS. The active lane-keeping assist system required careful understanding, as its intervention could be abrupt.