2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS vs 2021 Volkswagen ID.4

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS, a continuation of the third generation introduced in 2020, was a luxurious SUV that evolved from the original GL-Class. Initially intended to replace the G-Class, the GLS found its niche among affluent families seeking a more practical yet opulent alternative to the likes of the Navigator and Escalade. The GLS's design was more refined than its predecessors, with softened angles and lines that cleverly masked its substantial size. Inside, the GLS boasted a futuristic cabin dominated by a massive digital screen, emphasizing its tech-centric approach. 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 Volkswagen ID.4 was designed from the ground up as an electric vehicle, showcasing a distinctive look that set it apart from Volkswagen's gasoline models. The ID.4's streamlined profile and wheels pushed to the corners gave it a unique appearance, although it didn't quite resemble a traditional SUV. Built on VW's MEB platform, the ID.4 was a strategic choice for the North American market, where crossovers were more popular than hatchbacks. The interior combined Volkswagen's minimalist design with a smartphone aesthetic, featuring piano black and matte plastic elements. While the ID.4 offered more front and rear headroom than some competitors, its legroom was average. Cargo space was competitive, though it lacked a "frunk" for additional storage. The ID.4's interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility, but rearward visibility was hindered by thick rear pillars.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered a range of powerful engine options. The entry-level GLS 450 was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine, producing 362 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The GLS 580 4MATIC featured a twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8, delivering 483 hp and 516 lb-ft. Both models utilized a nine-speed automatic transmission and Mercedes' 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 and multiple drive modes, including Comfort and Sport+, provided a smooth and dynamic driving experience, while the EQ Boost 48-volt mild-hybrid system enhanced performance and efficiency.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 offered two powertrain configurations. The base rear-wheel drive version featured a single rear-mounted electric motor, producing 201 horsepower and 229 pound-feet of torque, powered by an 82-kilowatt-hour battery pack. An all-wheel-drive version added a second electric motor for a total output of 295 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4's rear-wheel drive setup provided balanced handling, although it wasn't particularly sporty. The vehicle was tuned for comfort, with a smooth ride over bumps and potholes. Unlike many electric cars, the ID.4 relied on friction brakes rather than aggressive regenerative braking, offering a more familiar driving experience for those transitioning from gasoline vehicles. While the ID.4's performance was adequate, it was not designed for sporty driving.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS offered three rows of spacious seating, with ample headroom and legroom for first- and second-row occupants. Standard seven-passenger seating could be reduced to six with optional second-row captain's chairs. The third row, while not as spacious, was still suitable for adults. The GLS provided 355 litres of cargo space with all seats up, expanding to 1,209 litres with the third row folded, and 2,400 litres with both the second and third rows down. The interior featured numerous storage compartments, including a large centre console and spacious in-door bins.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4, while feeling like a crossover compared to other EVs, offered more front and rear headroom than some competitors, though legroom was average. Cargo space was competitive, with 858 litres available with the rear seats in place and 1,818 litres with them folded. The ID.4 lacked a "frunk," but the interior felt spacious, with good forward visibility. The centre console was narrow, providing limited storage space, but there were plenty of places to store a phone. The ID.4's heated steering wheel and front seats were effective in maintaining cabin warmth during cold weather.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS featured the MBUX infotainment system, with a massive touch screen and a trackpad for navigation. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, though a USB-C cable was required. The MBUX voice-control system responded to prompts like "Hey Mercedes," allowing for complex commands. The digital dash extended to the fully digital instrument panel, both controlled by touch-sensitive pads on the steering wheel. While there was a learning curve, the system made the GLS's extensive technology more manageable.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 came with a standard 10-inch touchscreen (with an optional 12-inch screen) and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A 5.3-inch display screen served as the instrument cluster, with haptic touchpads replacing traditional switchgear. The control setup was challenging to use, but the natural-language voice-control system provided an alternative. The ID.Light, a light strip at the base of the windshield, communicated information to the driver, though its novelty wore off quickly. The touchscreen was well-positioned, with smart graphics and easy-to-navigate menus.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz GLS came standard with numerous driver-assistance features, including Active Brake Assist, rain-sensing wipers, and automatic high beams. Additional safety tech included lane-change assist, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The GLS also featured a full array of airbags, traction control, self-tensioning seatbelts, and a tire-pressure monitoring system.

The 2021 Volkswagen ID.4 received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star safety rating from the NHTSA for RWD versions. It offered a variety of driver aids, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control. New features for 2021 included Travel Assist, which added automated lane centring, and Emergency Assist, designed to stop the car if the driver was incapacitated. Travel Assist performed well, smoothly following curves and responding to acceleration and deceleration.