2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, known for its iconic boxy design, was a vehicle that combined ruggedness with luxury. Its straight-edged, two-box design was a nod to its military origins, yet it had become a status symbol among the elite. The G-Class featured a retro exterior that stood out in the Mercedes-Benz lineup, with a hand-built construction in Graz, Austria. Inside, the G-Class offered a sophisticated cabin 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 machine, with a design that could be customized extensively through the G Manufaktur Program.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, presented a more modern and elegant design. As Hyundai's flagship SUV, it replaced the Santa Fe XL and stood out with its distinctive lines and shapes, including a prominent grille and sculpted wheel arches. The Palisade's exterior was both striking and sophisticated, with LED lighting elements and a floating rear roof design. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and spacious cabin, with high-quality materials and finishes. The horizontally arrayed screen and beefy center console added to the vehicle's upscale feel. The Palisade's interior was designed for comfort and practicality, with ample storage and seating options, making it a worthy flagship for Hyundai.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was a powerhouse, particularly the G550 model, which boasted a twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 engine producing 416 horsepower and 450 pound-feet of torque. This engine allowed the G550 to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds, impressive for a vehicle weighing 5,551 pounds. The G-Class featured a nine-speed automatic transmission and permanent four-wheel drive, with Dynamic Select driving programs for various terrains. The G550's off-road capabilities were enhanced by its high ground clearance and adjustable suspension options. For those seeking even more power, the AMG G63 variant offered 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque, achieving 0 to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. While not as powerful as the G-Class, the Palisade's engine provided a smooth and responsive driving experience, with no turbo lag. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was reasonable, with EPA estimates of up to 22 mpg combined for FWD models. The SUV's handling was aided by a four-wheel independent suspension and stabilizer bars, ensuring a comfortable ride. The Palisade also offered a towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds, making it a practical choice for families.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a spacious and luxurious interior, with a cargo capacity of 38.1 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 68.6 cubic feet with the second row folded. The G550's front cabin was roomy, with comfortable seats and ample storage options. The tall roofline provided excellent headroom, and the standard sunroof added to the cabin's airy feel. However, some luxury features, like ventilated front seats, were only available as part of expensive packages. The G-Class's exterior spare tire was both a styling cue and a practical feature.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and practicality, with 18.0 cubic feet of luggage space behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with both rear rows folded. The Palisade's cabin was designed for comfort, with second-row captain's chairs and ample storage options. The shift-by-wire gear selector and intuitive controls added to the vehicle's user-friendly design. The Palisade's dual-panel sunroof, available on higher trims, enhanced the ambiance in the rear rows. Luxury features like Nappa leather upholstery and a hands-free liftgate were available on the Limited and Calligraphy trims.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured advanced technology, with twin 12.3-inch HD screens for the instrument panel and infotainment system. These screens were customizable, allowing drivers to create a personalized driving environment. The G-Class's infotainment system ran on the latest COMAND system, with unique Touch Control buttons on the steering wheel for easy navigation. The Burmester Surround Sound system provided an immersive audio experience. Standard features included WiFi, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, though wireless device charging was not available.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess, with a high-resolution touchscreen and Harman Kardon premium audio system on higher trims. The infotainment system included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, with multiple USB ports and a Qi wireless charging pad. The Palisade also offered a rear-view monitor, surround view function, and a head-up display on higher trims. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system provided remote engine start and vehicle monitoring. The digital instrument cluster on Limited and Calligraphy trims integrated with turn signals and blind-spot cameras for added safety.

The 2021 Mercedes-Benz G-Class came with a suite of standard safety features, including a rearview camera, active brake assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring. However, its active lane-keeping assist system could be intrusive, requiring drivers to understand its operation fully. The G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA for crash-worthiness.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted an impressive array of safety features, earning it a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Standard features included seven airbags, electronic stability control, blind-spot collision avoidance, and forward collision-avoidance assist. Higher trims offered additional safety technologies like Highway Driving Assist and ultrasonic rear occupant alert, enhancing the Palisade's safety credentials.