2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Volvo XC90

The 2021 Volvo XC90 marked a significant shift in Volvo's design philosophy, moving away from its traditionally conservative styling to a more characterful yet distinctly Volvo appearance. The XC90 retained classic Volvo elements like a boxy profile and a blunt front end with a rectangular grille, but introduced softer lines, increased chrome detailing, and distinctive LED headlights with “Thor’s Hammer” daytime running lights. The Inscription trim, with its extra chrome and optional 21-inch alloy wheels, was the most eye-catching, while the R-Design and Momentum trims offered sportier and more understated looks, respectively. The XC90 was built on Volvo's Scalable Product Architecture, shared with other models in the "90" and "60" series, and its interior embodied "Swedish minimalism" with high-quality materials and thoughtful design, including options like wool upholstery and an Orrefors crystal shifter.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, maintained 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 through the G Manufaktur Program. The G-Class's rugged exterior was complemented by a luxurious interior featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment screen and a matching virtual instrument panel. Despite its origins as a military vehicle, the G-Class became a status symbol, often seen in bold custom colors and adorned with luxury features. Its design was both a nod to its heritage and a statement of modern luxury, making it a unique offering in the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 offered three powertrains, all centered around a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The base T5 model featured a turbocharged engine producing 250 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, while the T6 added a supercharger for a total of 316 hp and 295 lb-ft. The T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid, also known as Recharge, combined the T6 engine with electric motors for a total output of 400 hp and 472 lb-ft. The T5 came with front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive optional, while the T6 and T8 had standard AWD. Despite its power, the XC90's small engine struggled with acceleration, particularly in electric-only mode, and required the gasoline engine's assistance at low speeds. The XC90 excelled in ride quality, thanks to an optional air-suspension system, and offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, though it lagged behind competitors like the Lincoln Aviator.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, particularly the G550, was a powerhouse with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs, including "G-mode" for off-roading. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound curb weight. The G-Class's suspension system, with double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, provided a smooth ride with minimal body roll. The G550's off-road capabilities were enhanced by adjustable suspension, damping options, and three locking differentials. The AMG G63 variant offered even more power, with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, the G-Class's fuel economy was low, with the G550 rated at 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 was available in six-seat or seven-seat configurations, with headroom and legroom in all three rows being average for the segment. The third row was tight for adults, and the seats lacked support. An optional power moonroof and standard four-zone climate control enhanced the interior's spacious feel. The Inscription trim featured 10-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated front seats with massage, but lacked a power-adjustable steering wheel. Cargo space was limited, with 11.2 cubic feet behind the third row, 34.1 cubic feet with the rear seats folded, and 64.1 cubic feet with all seats down. A hands-free power tailgate was standard.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a spacious and functional interior, with 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The G550 had a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and could tow up to 7,700 pounds. The front cabin was roomy, with ample storage and a tall roofline providing excellent headroom. The second row accommodated three adults comfortably, with a 60/40 split-folding seatback. While heated seats were standard, ventilated seats required an expensive package. The G550's spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, a practical and stylistic feature.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 featured the Sensus infotainment system with a 9-inch touchscreen, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, and a WiFi hotspot. The touchscreen was user-friendly, though the text was sometimes difficult to read while driving. A 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins audio system and head-up display were optional. The wireless charging pad was too small for most phones, and only second-row USB-C ports were available.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted 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. A rear-seat entertainment system was available, and the G550 included three USB and two 12-volt outlets. WiFi was standard, but wireless charging was not available. Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto were standard, along with Mercedes me connect services.

The 2021 Volvo XC90 received a "Top Safety Pick+" rating from the IIHS for non-hybrid models, with top scores in crash tests and front-crash prevention. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating. The XC90 offered numerous standard safety features, including lane-keep assist, driver-attention monitor, traffic-sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, and Pilot Assist, which combined adaptive cruise control with lane centering.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. However, it included many standard safety features, such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, attention assist, active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, active parking assist, and blind-spot monitoring. The active lane-keeping assist was noted for its abrupt intervention, requiring drivers to understand its operation fully.