Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs Mazda CX-30

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's character was further emphasized by its robust doors and latches, which produced a distinctive clacking noise. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was luxurious, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30, available in five trim levels in Canada, boasted a premium look and feel, especially in the GS Kuro Edition with its blacked-out exterior trim and white artificial leather upholstery. The Aero Grey paint provided a sharp contrast with the black details, enhancing its upscale appearance. While the CX-30's lower-perimeter body cladding was thick, it offered protection against chips and dents. The interior was designed for comfort, with padded armrests and a pleasing steering wheel grip. However, the infotainment system's controls required a learning curve, though they became intuitive over time.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and a nine-speed automatic transmission with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine across all models, with the GT Kuro trim offering a turbocharged option. The standard engine produced 186 horsepower and 186 pound-feet of torque, while the turbocharged version delivered up to 250 hp and 320 lb-ft on premium fuel. Both engines were paired with a six-speed automatic transmission and Mazda’s i-Activ AWD system. The CX-30's fuel economy was competitive, with the naturally aspirated engine averaging 8.3 L/100 km in mixed driving. The CX-30 excelled in driving enjoyment, thanks to its G-Vectoring Control Plus technology and precise steering, making it a fun and engaging SUV to drive.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Despite its size, the G-Class was easier to maneuver and park than larger rivals, thanks to its short length and narrow width.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 faced some practicality challenges, with small door openings and a tight back seat for adults. The cargo area offered 572 litres of space, expanding to 1,280 litres with the rear seats folded. Front seats were comfortable but snug, with heated options standard in Canada. The air conditioning system struggled in hot weather, and rear USB charging ports were absent. However, the CX-30 provided reasonable storage space up front, with a roomy bin and sizeable cupholders.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition were notable MBUX features. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were expected to be standard.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30's Mazda Connect system offered varying screen sizes and functionality. The GS trim added a 10.25-inch screen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and touchscreen functionality. The GT trims included a 12-speaker Bose sound system. However, the native Mazda Connect was only accessible via a console knob, and the voice recognition system was less effective than competitors.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was expected to include standard driver-assistance features like forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring.

The 2026 Mazda CX-30 impressed with its safety features and received high crash test ratings. Standard systems included adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist. The GT trim added parking sensors and a surround-view camera. The CX-30 earned a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a "Top Safety Pick+" award from the IIHS.