2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the GL-Class, originally intended to replace the G-Class. However, the G-Class's enduring popularity led the GLS to cater to affluent families seeking a more practical yet opulent alternative to the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that gave it a sleeker appearance. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric controls. Available in three trims—GLS 450, GLS 580, and the high-performance AMG GLS 63—the GLS offered a range of standard features, including remote keyless entry, nine USB ports, and a 13-speaker Burmester sound system. Various option packages allowed for further customization, enhancing comfort and luxury.

In contrast, the 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe maintained the iconic Wrangler styling, with only subtle hints like blue decals and a charging port to indicate its plug-in hybrid nature. The Wrangler 4xe retained signature features such as the exterior-mounted spare tire, removable doors, and seven-slot grille. Inside, the Wrangler 4xe offered a rugged yet functional interior, with three available grades: Unlimited Sahara, Unlimited Sahara High Altitude, and Unlimited Rubicon. While the Sahara models featured leather-faced seats and heated front seats, the Rubicon came with cloth seats, with leather as an optional upgrade. Despite its hybrid powertrain, the Wrangler 4xe preserved its off-road capabilities, making it a versatile choice for adventure enthusiasts.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 featured a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC upgraded to a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes's 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system. The AMG GLS 63, with its hand-crafted 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 engine, generated an impressive 603 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. This powerhouse could accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in just 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h. The GLS's adaptive air suspension system allowed for adjustable ground clearance, enhancing both comfort and handling. Multiple drive modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Sport+, provided a customizable driving experience, while the GLS's smooth ride and maneuverability made it suitable for city driving.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe combined a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, resulting in a total system output of 375 hp and 470 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain was paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Wrangler 4xe retained its trail-rated status, featuring a Selec-trac two-speed transfer case for the Sahara models and a Rock-trac transfer case for the Rubicon. With solid front and rear axles, locking differentials, and a fully articulating suspension, the Wrangler 4xe offered impressive off-road capabilities, including 27.4 cm of ground clearance and 76 cm of water fording capability. The plug-in hybrid system provided an electric-only range of 35 km, with hybrid, electric, and e-save modes for optimal efficiency. The Wrangler 4xe's electric motors delivered a burst of energy from a stop, enhancing its performance on the road.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a spacious interior with three rows of seating, accommodating up to seven passengers. The front and second-row seats provided ample headroom and legroom, while the third row was suitable for full-size adults. The GLS boasted 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 the second and third rows down. The driver and front passenger enjoyed numerous storage compartments, including spacious in-door bins and a combination cup holder/wireless charging pad. The centre console featured butterfly doors, providing additional storage space.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe, designed to accommodate its battery pack under the rear seats, minimized space loss for second-row occupants. The Sahara models offered 1,023 mm of headroom and 970 mm of legroom, while the Rubicon provided even more headroom with its soft-top roof. The Wrangler 4xe's cargo capacity was slightly reduced compared to other Wrangler models, with 784 litres of space behind the second row and 1,908 litres with the seats folded. Despite this, the Wrangler 4xe remained practical for outdoor adventures. The Rubicon test unit featured an optional power-retracting roof, allowing for easy open-air driving. The Wrangler 4xe's compact dimensions made it manageable in urban settings, and a home charging cable was included for convenience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a large touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. MBUX's voice-control system allowed for complex commands, enhancing convenience. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, with touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel for control. The system offered a variety of display options, providing a customizable experience.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe utilized the Uconnect 4C system with navigation on an 8.4-inch touchscreen. Standard features included Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Uconnect's intuitive interface combined touch controls with hard buttons for essential functions. The system included off-road pages and Hybrid Electric Pages for monitoring vehicle performance. The instrument cluster featured traditional gauges and a 7-inch colour information display. While the Wrangler 4xe lacked some advanced tech features, it offered a practical and user-friendly infotainment experience.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came equipped with a range of driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety options included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe shared its structural design with other Wrangler models, receiving a Good rating in most IIHS crashworthiness tests. However, it received a Marginal rating in the driver's side small overlap front test and rear passenger head protection. The NHTSA rated the Wrangler with four stars for front crash tests and three stars for rollover resistance. Safety features were limited, with blind spot monitoring and rear park assist standard only on the Unlimited Sahara High Altitude. Optional safety packages included advanced braking assist and adaptive cruise control.