2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, was a vehicle with a rich history, having first appeared in 1979. By 2021, it had evolved into a luxury SUV with two models available in the U.S.: the G550 and the AMG G63. The G-Class was renowned for its boxy, rugged exterior, a nod to its military origins, and its retro appeal stood out in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. Inside, the G-Class offered a sophisticated design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel, allowing for a customizable and immersive driving experience. Despite its luxurious transformation, the G-Class retained its off-road capabilities, making it a favorite among both adventurers and celebrities.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS, in contrast, presented a more understated luxury SUV experience. The base GLS 450 model offered a subtle design, avoiding the flashy elements seen in competitors like the Cadillac Escalade. However, the AMG GLS 63 and Maybach versions added visual drama with features like flared wheel arches and chrome accents. Inside, the GLS provided a luxurious environment with options for reclining rear seats and performance-oriented interiors. The GLS 450's interior, while not as opulent as its higher-end siblings, still offered a high-quality feel with leather upholstery, a panoramic roof, and ambient lighting. The digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen were well-integrated, enhancing the overall luxury experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, particularly in its G550 variant, which boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This engine, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds. The G-Class was equipped with dynamic driving programs, including a "G-mode" for off-roading, and featured a robust suspension system that provided a smooth ride on various terrains. The AMG G63 variant took performance to another level with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving a 0 to 60 mph time of 4.5 seconds. Despite its size and weight, the G-Class was surprisingly agile, though its fuel economy was a downside, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS 450 featured a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, complemented by Mercedes' EQ Boost mild-hybrid system. This setup delivered 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, with an additional 21 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque available from the electric motor. The GLS 450's engine provided ample power, and the inline-six configuration offered a smooth driving experience. However, the GLS' air suspension, while capable of adjusting ride height, lacked the refinement expected in a luxury SUV, resulting in excessive body motion over bumps. The GLS 450 had a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds, which was competitive but not class-leading.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was both luxurious and practical, offering 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. It had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The G-Class' interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and featured numerous storage options. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available in expensive packages. The G-Class' exterior design included a spare tire mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged appeal.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a seven-seat configuration with a 60/40 split-folding second-row bench seat and two third-row seats. An optional six-seat version replaced the bench with captain's chairs. The GLS provided 17.4 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats in place, expanding to 84.7 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. The GLS' air suspension facilitated easy loading and unloading, and the power-folding seats and tailgate added convenience. However, the touchscreen was difficult to reach, and some ergonomic issues detracted from the overall experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system, offering customizable layouts and colors. The infotainment system ran on Mercedes-Benz's COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. The G-Class included a Burmester Surround Sound system, WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. However, wireless device charging was not available.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS came with the MBUX infotainment system, featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, navigation, and a 13-speaker Burmester audio system. The voice recognition system was particularly effective, responding to natural speech. However, the touchpad controller was cumbersome, and the navigation system occasionally suggested inefficient routes.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class included standard safety features such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the active lane-keeping assist could be abrupt and distracting. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.

The 2022 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered standard safety features like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and a surround-view camera system. Optional features included adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Crash-test ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA were not available at the time of publication.