2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2022 Toyota Sequoia

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, was a striking blend of ruggedness and luxury. Its boxy, retro exterior design, reminiscent of its military origins, set it apart from other vehicles in the Mercedes-Benz lineup. The G-Class was available in two models in the U.S.: the G550 and the AMG G63, both offering extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program. Inside, the G-Class featured a sophisticated design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel, creating a modern and immersive driving environment. Despite its luxurious appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road machine, embraced by celebrities and adventurers alike.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia continued its long-standing second generation, maintaining a mature design that emphasized practicality and durability. Its exterior was characterized by modestly sized grilles and elegant wheel arches, giving it a substantial presence. The Sequoia's interior, however, showed signs of aging, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen that felt outdated compared to modern SUVs. Despite this, the Sequoia's interior was well-built, with high-quality materials and ample space for passengers and cargo. The Nightshade Special Edition added a touch of modernity with darkened chrome and black-painted finishes, enhancing its visual appeal.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, particularly the G550 model, 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 featured a sophisticated suspension system with double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, providing a smooth ride on various terrains. The AMG G63 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 impressive capabilities, the G-Class had a fuel economy rating of 13 mpg city/19 mpg highway for the G550 and 13/16 for the G63.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was powered by a 5.7-liter i-Force V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This engine was paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and a lockable Torsen limited-slip center differential in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck-based construction provided a payload capacity of around 1,300 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,400 pounds. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with a 38.1-foot turning circle and excellent sightlines for daily driving. However, its fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 13 mpg city/17 mpg highway for both RWD and 4WD models.

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 flat. The G550 had a payload capacity of just over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The cabin was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and featured heated front and rear seats as standard. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available as part of expensive packages. The G-Class also featured a spare tire mounted on the tailgate, adding to its rugged aesthetic.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with roomy seating across all three rows and a three-zone climate control system. The Sequoia's cargo space was generous, with 18.9 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 120.1 cubic feet with both the second and third rows folded flat. The interior featured a standard one-touch tilt/slide power moonroof and available heated and ventilated front seats. The Sequoia also offered ample storage options, including a center console, glove compartment, and door pockets, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with advanced technology, including twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These screens were customizable, allowing drivers to coordinate colors with the ambient lighting for a personalized experience. The G-Class featured the latest version of the COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. Standard features included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a Burmester Surround Sound system, although wireless device charging was not available.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia's technology was less advanced, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.5-inch TFT driver information screen that felt outdated. However, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility were standard, along with WiFi connectivity and SiriusXM satellite radio. The Sequoia Limited added navigation and a 12-speaker audio system, while a premium audio package offered 14 JBL speakers and an amplifier. Despite its dated infotainment system, the Sequoia featured LED exterior lighting and a rear backup camera as standard.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came with a comprehensive suite of safety features, including a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, the G-Class had not been rated for crash-worthiness by the IIHS or NHTSA. The active lane-keeping assist system was noted for its abrupt intervention, which could be distracting for some drivers.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia was equipped with the Toyota Safety Sense P suite, which included a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, adaptive cruise control, lane-departure alert, and automatic high beams. The Sequoia also featured a blind-spot monitor with rear cross-traffic alert and the STAR safety system, which included stability control, traction control, anti-lock brakes, and more. Like the G-Class, the Sequoia had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA.