2021 Lexus RX vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 Lexus RX showcased a modern design aesthetic that was emblematic of the brand's styling cues. It featured a large grille, angular headlamps, and a shapely body with a floating roof. Inside, the RX offered sumptuous seating with perforated leather upholstery, although the center console was criticized for its dated appearance. The RX was available in five variants, including the performance-focused RX F Sport and the extended-body RXL with a third row of seating. Standard features included 18-inch aluminum wheels, LED lighting, and rear privacy glass, with options for larger wheels and additional exterior upgrades. The interior was well-appointed, offering a range of features from power-adjustable front seats to semi-aniline leather upholstery and heated steering wheels.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, retained its iconic boxy design, a hallmark since its debut in 1979. The G-Class was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, both offering extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program. The exterior was rugged and retro, while the interior boasted a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. The G-Class was a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and luxurious finishes. Despite its luxury appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road machine, with a design that appealed to both adventurers and the elite.

The 2021 Lexus RX was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine delivering 295 horsepower and 267 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The RX Hybrid models offered 308 horsepower with a combination of a V6 engine and three electric motors. The RX achieved a top speed of 124 mph and accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 7.7 to 7.9 seconds, depending on the drivetrain. Fuel efficiency varied, with the FWD RX 350 rated at 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, while the RX Hybrid models managed up to 31 mpg city. The RX F Sport added adaptive variable suspension and sportier features for a more dynamic driving experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent 4WD. The G550 accelerated from zero to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, with a top speed limited by its off-road capabilities. The AMG G63 variant offered a more powerful 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving zero to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. The G-Class was equipped with dynamic driving programs, including "G-mode" for off-roading, and had a fuel economy rating of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 Lexus RX offered a functional interior with seating for five in the two-row models and up to seven in the three-row RXL variants. Front and second-row seating provided ample space, while the third row was tight. Cargo space was limited, with 18.4 cubic feet behind the second row and 56.3 cubic feet with seats folded in the two-row models. The three-row RXL offered 7.5 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 58.5 cubic feet with seats folded. A power liftgate was standard, with a hands-free option available.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class provided a spacious and luxurious interior with a roomy front cabin and ample headroom due to its tall roofline. The G550 offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with seats folded. It had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split-folding seatback. While the G-Class offered standard heated seats, ventilated seats were part of expensive packages. The spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged appeal.

The 2021 Lexus RX came equipped with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, dual-zone climate control, and a nine-speaker sound system. Upgrades included a 12.3-inch screen, wireless charging, and a 15-speaker Mark Levinson system. The infotainment system, while functional, was not the most user-friendly, and the Remote Touch controller took up valuable console space. The RX lacked wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which might be a drawback for tech-savvy buyers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment, customizable for layout and color. The COMAND system was controlled via unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, offering more functionality than traditional controls. The G-Class included a Burmester Surround Sound system, WiFi, and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it lacked wireless charging, and some features were part of expensive packages.

The 2021 Lexus RX received a Top Safety Pick designation from the IIHS, with Good marks on crashworthiness tests. The NHTSA rated the RX 350, RX 350L, and RX 450h with four out of five stars overall. Standard safety features included a rearview camera, 10 airbags, and Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, which offered a suite of driver-assist technologies. However, the RX lacked advanced hands-off piloting systems found in some competitors.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with numerous safety systems, including a rearview camera, active lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Its size and weight provided safety advantages in some crashes, but also posed risks to pedestrians and smaller vehicles. The active lane-keeping assist could be abrupt, requiring drivers to understand its operation fully.