2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2021 Honda Pilot

The 2021 Honda Pilot aimed to balance styling with reliability, safety, comfort, and performance. Despite efforts to enhance its rugged appearance with a 2019 refresh and a 2020 Black Edition, the exterior design remained polarizing. The Pilot was available in seven trims, ranging from the base LX to the upscale Black Edition, with prices between $32,250 and $49,920. The Black Edition, which we tested, featured exclusive black leather upholstery with red accents and ambient lighting, but its minivan-like interior design and drab exterior did not appeal to everyone.

In contrast, the 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known as the G-Wagen, boasted a distinctive boxy design that harked back to its military roots. The G-Class was available in two models: the G550 and the AMG G63, with starting prices of $131,750 and $156,450, respectively. Its retro exterior and luxurious interior, featuring a 12.3-inch widescreen infotainment system and customizable ambient lighting, made it a status symbol. Despite its rugged appearance, the G-Class was embraced by celebrities and offered extensive customization options through the G Manufaktur Program.

The 2021 Honda Pilot was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. It featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and offered an optional torque-vectoring all-wheel-drive system. The Pilot's fuel-saving measures included variable-cylinder management and automatic engine stop/start, achieving an EPA rating of 22 mpg in combined driving. Its MacPherson strut front and multi-link rear suspension provided a comfortable ride and agile handling, although its off-road capability was limited by modest ground clearance and all-season tires.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550, with its twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine, delivered 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 for various terrains. The G550 could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds, impressive for its 5,551-pound curb weight. Its suspension system, including double-wishbone independent front suspension and a rigid rear axle, provided a smooth ride on pavement and off-road capability with 9.5 inches of ground clearance.

The 2021 Honda Pilot offered ample space for families, seating up to eight people with a second-row bench seat. The Black Edition featured leather-wrapped, heated, and ventilated front seats, with 10-way power adjustment for the driver. Second-row captain’s chairs were standard on higher trims, providing comfort and easy access to the third row. The Pilot offered 16.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 83.9 cubic feet with seats folded, making it suitable for family road trips.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 combined luxury with practicality, offering 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row and up to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. Its spacious front cabin featured comfortable seats and ample storage, while the tall roofline provided excellent headroom. The G550 could tow up to 7,700 pounds, thanks to its body-on-frame construction. However, some luxury features, like ventilated seats, required expensive packages, and the lack of hands-free tailgate access was a notable omission.

The 2021 Honda Pilot featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and satellite radio. Higher trims offered navigation, a WiFi hotspot, and a premium audio system. The Touring trim added a rear-seat entertainment system and Cabin Talk, allowing the driver to communicate with rear passengers through the speakers. While functional, the system's small screen and limited voice-recognition technology were drawbacks.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 impressed with its twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. The customizable screens, combined with the Burmester Surround Sound system, created an immersive experience. The COMAND system, controlled by unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, offered advanced functionality. Standard features included WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, though wireless charging was absent.

The 2021 Honda Pilot came standard with Honda Sensing, a suite of advanced driving assistance systems, including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. While effective, the system lacked refinement. The Pilot received favorable crash-test ratings, with a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and "good" ratings from the IIHS, except for an "acceptable" score for front passenger small overlap frontal-impact protection.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class G550 featured numerous safety systems, such as a rearview camera, Pre-Safe, active lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. While its size and weight provided safety advantages, the active lane-keeping assist could be intrusive. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness.