2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Chevrolet Traverse

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was a nod to classic SUV styling, with its tall roof, chunky wheel arches, and prominent grille. It offered a clean and handsome design, though it lacked the personality of some competitors like the Ford Explorer and Kia Telluride. The Traverse's restrained styling allowed for distinct trim level differentiation through cosmetic elements, such as blacked-out trim on the RS model and chrome accents on the High Country. The interior mirrored the exterior's simplicity, with a standout feature being the optional Dual SkyScape sunroof. While materials in the RS model were decent, they didn't quite justify the $50,000 price tag, a common issue among midsize three-row crossovers.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, or G-Wagen, was a blend of ruggedness and luxury. Its boxy, retro exterior was a throwback to its military roots, yet it stood out in the Mercedes lineup. Inside, the G-Class boasted a tasteful design with a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and a matching virtual instrument panel. The cabin's ambient lighting could be coordinated with the instrument panel colors, creating a personalized atmosphere. 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. However, it retained its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for both urban and adventurous settings.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse was powered by a 3.6-liter V6 engine, producing 310 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque, paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. While the V6 didn't feel particularly strong off the line, it provided sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. The Traverse excelled in highway comfort, offering a quiet cabin and smooth ride, though it lacked agility on twisty roads. Its AWD system, which required manual activation, could distribute torque between wheels but didn't noticeably enhance handling. The Traverse had a 5,000-pound towing capacity, average for its class, but fell short of competitors like the Nissan Pathfinder and Ford Explorer.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, specifically the G550 model, featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine with 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. It used a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent 4WD, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound weight. Its suspension system provided a smooth ride with minimal body roll, and optional features like adjustable suspension and locking differentials enhanced off-road capability. The G63 variant offered even more power, with 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. However, the G-Class's fuel economy was low, with ratings of 13 mpg city and 19 mpg highway for the G550.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse offered seating for seven or eight, with above-average headroom and legroom in all rows. It excelled in cargo space, providing 23.0 cubic feet with all seats up, 57.8 cubic feet with the third row folded, and 98.2 cubic feet with all rear seats down. Higher trim levels featured a power liftgate and a power-folding third row. Despite its size, the Traverse had limited interior storage, typical of midsize crossovers, which often prioritize style over practicality.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class combined luxury with utility. It offered 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third 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 spacious, 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 expensive packages. The G550's spare tire was mounted on the tailgate, a practical and stylistic feature.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse came with a standard 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, offering Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Bluetooth. Higher trims featured an 8-inch screen, navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a Bose audio system. The Traverse retained analog controls for audio and climate, which were user-friendly. It also offered a rearview camera mirror and an optional HD surround-view camera system. USB ports were standard across all rows, but wireless charging was limited to higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment. These customizable screens, combined with ambient lighting and a Burmester Surround Sound system, created an immersive experience. The COMAND system, controlled via unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, offered advanced functionality. The G550 included a rear-seat entertainment system, multiple USB and 12-volt outlets, and standard WiFi. However, it lacked wireless device charging.

The 2021 Chevrolet Traverse received top "Good" scores from the IIHS in crash tests and a "Superior" rating for front-crash prevention. However, its headlights received mixed ratings, and LATCH ease of use was rated "Acceptable." The NHTSA awarded the Traverse a five-star overall safety rating, with four stars in frontal and rollover tests. Standard driver-assist features were limited, with many options available only on higher trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered numerous standard safety features, including a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, traffic-sign assist, and various active assist systems. However, its active lane-keeping assist could be abrupt, requiring driver familiarity. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness.