2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2022 Mazda CX-30

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a testament to rugged luxury. Its straight-edged, two-box design harked back to its military origins, yet it was embraced by the elite as a status symbol. The G-Class offered a unique blend of retro styling and modern luxury, with a hand-built construction in Graz, Austria. Inside, the G-Class featured a sophisticated interior 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 appeal, the G-Class remained a capable off-road vehicle, with a design that could be customized extensively through the G Manufaktur Program.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30, on the other hand, was a stylish subcompact SUV that shared its platform with the Mazda3. It featured a sleek design with an upright grille and smooth fenders, resembling a downsized CX-5. The CX-30's cabin was praised for its comfort and quietness, with a blend of conventional and digital displays. However, its infotainment system, controlled by a rotary dial, was criticized for its steep learning curve. The CX-30 offered various trim levels, each adding more features, with the Turbo Premium Plus model providing a comprehensive suite of driver assistance features. Despite its compact size, the CX-30 managed to offer a refined ride with sporty handling.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, with the G550 model featuring a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This engine allowed the G550 to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, impressive for a vehicle weighing 5,551 pounds. The G-Class boasted a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The G63 variant took performance to another level, with its V8 engine tuned to 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds. Despite its size, the G-Class offered a surprisingly nimble ride, with a turning circle of 44.6 feet and off-road capabilities enhanced by adjustable suspension and locking differentials.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 offered a different kind of performance, with its base engine being a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque. The Turbo model, however, delivered more excitement with a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine producing up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque on premium fuel. The CX-30's six-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive provided a lively driving experience, especially in Sport mode. The CX-30's steering was well-weighted, and its suspension offered a sporty, refined ride, though it could be harsh over rough roads. The CX-30's performance was complemented by its conventional shifter design and steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters, adding to its driving appeal.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was as practical as it was luxurious, offering 38.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the seats folded. Its body-on-frame construction allowed for a payload capacity of over 1,000 pounds and a towing capacity of 7,700 pounds. The G-Class's interior was spacious, with ample headroom and legroom, and featured numerous storage options. However, some luxury features, like ventilated seats, were only available in expensive packages. The G-Class's exterior spare tire was both a styling cue and a practical feature.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 provided up to 45.2 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded, and 20.2 cubic feet with them in use, typical for its segment. The Turbo Premium Plus model included a power rear liftgate, enhancing convenience. The CX-30's interior featured a sliding center console cover, though it had a design flaw that could cause it to get stuck. The front doors offered deep pockets for storage, while the rear seats provided adequate headroom for short-to-medium trips, though longer journeys might be less comfortable.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class impressed with its twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system, offering customizable layouts and colors. The COMAND system, controlled via unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel, provided a high level of functionality. The G-Class also featured a Burmester Surround Sound system, WiFi, and standard connectivity options like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. However, it lacked wireless device charging.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30's infotainment system was elegantly integrated into the dash but lacked touch functionality, controlled instead by a rotary dial and toggle buttons. This setup, inspired by older luxury systems, was criticized for its usability, particularly with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Despite its challenges, the system offered a premium feel, fitting Mazda's upmarket aspirations.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a suite of standard safety features, including active lane-keeping assist, active brake assist, and adaptive cruise control. However, its size and weight posed risks to pedestrians and other road users. The G-Class had not been rated by major safety organizations.

The 2022 Mazda CX-30 came equipped with a comprehensive array of driver-assistance features, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. The Turbo Premium Plus model added blind-spot monitoring, parking sensors, and a 360-degree camera. The CX-30 earned top safety ratings from both the NHTSA and IIHS, highlighting its strong safety credentials.