2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that offered a blend of practicality and opulence. Originally known as the GL-Class, the GLS evolved to cater to families seeking a lavish alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. Despite its size, the GLS appeared more streamlined than its predecessors, thanks to softened angles and clever design elements. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric nature. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of features, from remote keyless entry to a 13-speaker Burmester sound system, with various packages to enhance comfort and style.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee maintained its timeless appeal, blending rugged utility with upscale sophistication. Its design, characterized by big wheels and flared fenders, contributed to its enduring success. The Grand Cherokee lineup was diverse, ranging from the affordable Laredo and Limited trims to the luxurious Overland and Summit, and the performance-oriented SRT and Trackhawk models. The Summit trim, in particular, offered a plush interior with premium materials and a distinctive colour scheme. However, the interior design showed signs of aging, with outdated switchgear and less-than-perfect panel fits. Despite this, the Grand Cherokee remained a versatile SUV, capable of off-road adventures and comfortable daily driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engines, starting with the GLS 450's twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 stepped up with a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 4MATIC all-wheel drive. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque, propelling the SUV from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds. The GLS's adaptive air suspension and multiple drive modes ensured a smooth and agile driving experience, despite its size.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee offered a standard 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 engine, producing 295 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those seeking more power, the optional 5.7-litre Hemi V8 delivered 360 hp and 390 lb-ft of torque, with a best-in-class towing capacity of 3,300 kg. The V8's cylinder deactivation technology improved fuel efficiency, though it remained thirsty. The Grand Cherokee's Quadra-Trac II 4WD system and Quadra-Lift air suspension provided excellent off-road capabilities, while its tight turning radius and responsive brakes made it a capable city vehicle. However, the V8's fuel consumption and occasional bounciness on uneven surfaces were notable drawbacks.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered spacious seating across three rows, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. The standard seven-passenger configuration could be adjusted to six with optional captain's chairs. The third row, while less spacious, accommodated full-size adults comfortably. The GLS provided 355 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both rear rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a combination cup holder/wireless charging pad and a centre console with butterfly doors.

In the 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee Summit, occupants enjoyed supportive seats and a heated steering wheel. The Signature Leather-Wrapped Interior Package added a touch of luxury, though the controls for seat heating and ventilation were embedded in the infotainment system, causing some distraction. The rear seat offered comfort but limited legroom for taller adults, with large windows and a panoramic sunroof enhancing the sense of space. Cargo space measured 1,028 litres behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,934 litres with the second row folded. While interior storage was adequate, the optional rear-seat entertainment system consumed valuable space in the centre console bin.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system supported Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though a USB-C cable was required for connectivity. MBUX's voice-control system responded to commands like "Hey Mercedes," offering functionality similar to Siri or Alexa. The digital dash extended to the instrument panel, controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While the system had a learning curve, it ultimately made the GLS's extensive technology more manageable.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's Uconnect 4C with Nav infotainment system offered a user-friendly experience with fast response times and pleasing graphics. It included navigation, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Bluetooth, and a 4G LTE WiFi hotspot. SiriusXM provided satellite radio and subscription-based services, while SiriusXM Guardian offered remote access features. The voice recognition technology worked well, allowing control of various functions. The Summit trim featured a 19-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, delivering impressive sound quality. Despite its age, the Grand Cherokee's infotainment system remained a strong point, though it lacked some of the advanced features found in newer models.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety technologies included automatic parking assist, a driver-drowsiness monitor, and crosswind assist. Optional features such as lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring enhanced safety further. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee's safety ratings were a mixed bag. While the 4WD model received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA, the 2WD version's rating dropped due to a three-star rollover resistance score. The IIHS rated the Grand Cherokee "Marginal" for driver safety and "Poor" for front passenger safety in small-overlap frontal-impact collisions. The Summit trim included the ProTech II Package, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Despite these features, the Grand Cherokee's safety performance in certain tests was a concern.