2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2022 Honda Odyssey

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a symbol of luxury and rugged capability. Its straight-edged, two-box design was a nod to its military origins, yet it had been embraced by celebrities and luxury car enthusiasts alike. The G-Class offered a unique blend of retro styling and modern luxury, with a hand-built construction in Graz, Austria. Inside, the G-Class featured a sophisticated interior with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel, allowing for a customizable and immersive driving experience. The G-Class was not just a status symbol; it was a capable off-road machine with a strong presence on the road.

In contrast, the 2022 Honda Odyssey was designed with practicality and family-friendliness in mind. It offered a stylish yet functional design, with sliding side doors that made it easy to load children and cargo. The Odyssey's interior was spacious and versatile, with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers and a range of storage solutions. The Magic Slide second-row seats provided flexibility for families, allowing for easy access to the third row or additional cargo space. The Odyssey's design prioritized comfort and convenience, making it an ideal choice for families on the go.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, with the G550 model featuring a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This robust engine allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, impressive for a vehicle weighing 5,551 pounds. The G-Class came with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, offering a range of driving modes, including "G-mode" for off-roading. The G63 variant took performance to another level with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the G-Class was nimble and capable, with a turning circle of 44.6 feet and off-road prowess supported by its suspension and locking differentials.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while not as performance-focused, offered a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. Powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine with 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, the Odyssey used a 10-speed automatic transmission for efficient power delivery. It was front-wheel drive, unlike some competitors offering all-wheel drive or hybrid options. The Odyssey achieved an EPA fuel economy estimate of 22 mpg combined. While it wasn't designed for spirited driving, the Odyssey handled well in various conditions, providing a comfortable ride for families. However, its brakes could become overworked on long descents, a consideration for those frequently driving in hilly areas.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a luxurious yet practical interior. With 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded, it provided ample room for luggage and gear. The G-Class could tow up to 7,700 pounds, thanks to its body-on-frame construction. Inside, the cabin was spacious, with comfortable seating and plenty of storage options. However, some luxury features, like ventilated seats, required expensive packages. The G-Class's design included a spare tire mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged aesthetic.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in interior space and versatility. It offered 32.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 88.8 cubic feet with the third row folded. Removing the second-row seats provided a massive 144.9 cubic feet of cargo space, comparable to a Chevrolet Suburban. The Odyssey's interior featured quality materials, supportive seating, and numerous storage solutions. The Magic Slide second-row seats allowed for easy configuration changes, enhancing passenger comfort and safety. The Odyssey's design prioritized family needs, making it a practical choice for those requiring flexibility and space.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted advanced technology, with twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These customizable screens allowed drivers to tailor the display to their preferences, complemented by a Burmester Surround Sound system for an immersive experience. The G-Class featured the latest COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for intuitive operation. While it offered standard connectivity features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, it lacked wireless charging.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey, while well-equipped, lagged behind in infotainment technology. Starting with the EX trim, it included an 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Higher trims offered navigation, WiFi hotspot access, and CabinWatch and CabinTalk systems for rear-seat monitoring and communication. The rear-seat entertainment system, standard on Touring and Elite trims, featured a single 10.2-inch screen, but it was outdated compared to competitors. The Odyssey's infotainment system was functional but in need of an upgrade to remain competitive.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came with a suite of safety features, including active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. Its size and construction provided inherent safety advantages, but it lacked crash-test ratings from major safety organizations. Drivers needed to be aware of the G-Class's impact on smaller vehicles and pedestrians.

The 2022 Honda Odyssey excelled in safety, with Honda Sensing standard across all trims. This suite included adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. The Odyssey also featured a rear-seat reminder system and optional blind-spot monitoring. It earned a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS, making it a safe choice for families.