Land Rover Defender vs. Mercedes-Benz G-Class | Auto Trader UAE

Land Rover Defender vs. Mercedes-Benz G-Class: A Comprehensive Comparison for Auto Trader UAE

When it comes to luxury off-road SUVs, the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class are two of the most iconic models available in the UAE. Both vehicles offer a blend of performance, luxury, and off-road capability, but each has its unique strengths and characteristics. Here's a detailed comparison of these two popular SUVs based on price, speed, longevity, quality, horsepower, service, and other important factors to help you make an informed decision.

1. Price

• Land Rover Defender: The starting price of the Land Rover Defender in the UAE typically ranges from AED 2900,000 to AED 499,000, depending on the model and optional features.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, being a more premium model, has a higher starting price, typically ranging from AED 550,000 to AED 1,200,000. The G63 AMG variant can exceed AED 1,500,000 with added customizations.

Verdict: The Defender is more budget-friendly, making it an attractive option for those seeking luxury without the high price tag of the G-Class.

2. Performance and Speed

• Land Rover Defender: The Defender offers a range of engines, including a 2.0L four-cylinder turbocharged engine, a 3.0L mild-hybrid six-cylinder, and even a 5.0L V8 in higher trims. Its top speed varies from 191 km/h to 240 km/h, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time ranging from 5.2 to 7.6 seconds.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The G-Class typically comes with a 4.0L V8 bi-turbo engine in the G63 variant, producing 577 horsepower. It can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.5 seconds, with a top speed of 220 km/h.

Verdict: The G-Class offers superior acceleration and horsepower, catering to those who prioritize speed and performance.

3. Longevity and Build Quality

• Land Rover Defender: Known for its rugged build and off-road capabilities, the Defender is designed to handle tough terrains and is built with a focus on durability. Its aluminum-intensive architecture reduces weight while enhancing strength and corrosion resistance.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The G-Class has a reputation for being almost indestructible, with its body-on-frame construction and luxurious interior materials. It’s designed to last, often becoming a generational vehicle passed down within families.

Verdict: Both vehicles boast excellent longevity and build quality, but the G-Class’s legacy of durability and its use of premium materials often gives it an edge in terms of perceived luxury and lifespan.

4. Horsepower and Engine Options

• Land Rover Defender: The Defender’s engine options provide a range from 296 horsepower in the base model to 518 horsepower in the V8 variant, catering to different power needs and driving styles.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The G-Class, particularly the G63 AMG, comes with a powerful V8 engine that delivers 577 horsepower, offering more power than any of the Defender’s options.

Verdict: The G-Class clearly leads in terms of raw horsepower, making it the go-to choice for those who crave power and performance.

5. Service and Maintenance

• Land Rover Defender: Land Rover’s service network in the UAE is extensive, with regular maintenance intervals recommended every 16,000 km or annually. Service costs are relatively moderate for a luxury SUV but can increase with the complexity of repairs.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Mercedes-Benz offers a robust service network in the UAE, and the G-Class has higher service and maintenance costs due to its premium parts and intricate technologies. Service intervals are every 10,000 km or annually.

Verdict: While both vehicles have strong service networks, the Defender tends to be less costly to maintain compared to the G-Class, which has higher ongoing maintenance costs due to its premium nature.

6. Interior and Features

• Land Rover Defender: The Defender blends practicality with luxury, offering a utilitarian yet refined interior with advanced technology such as a 10-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an array of safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The G-Class offers a more opulent interior with high-end materials, a 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, advanced ambient lighting, and a suite of safety features including active brake assist and crosswind assist.

Verdict: The G-Class excels in interior luxury and technology, making it the better option for those who prioritize a high-end cabin experience.

7. Off-Road Capability

• Land Rover Defender: With its Terrain Response system, high ground clearance, and advanced off-road technologies, the Defender is built for challenging terrains and excels in off-road scenarios.
• Mercedes-Benz G-Class: The G-Class is also a formidable off-roader, equipped with three locking differentials and a low-range gearbox, making it a strong contender for serious off-road enthusiasts.

Verdict: Both SUVs are exceptional off-roaders, but the Defender's extensive range of off-road-specific features often makes it slightly better suited for extreme off-road conditions.

Conclusion

The choice between the Land Rover Defender and the Mercedes-Benz G-Class ultimately comes down to your priorities. The Defender is more affordable and offers excellent off-road capabilities and durability, making it ideal for those seeking a rugged yet luxurious SUV. On the other hand, the G-Class provides unparalleled luxury, power, and a legacy of durability that appeals to buyers looking for a premium off-road experience.

To explore the best deals on the Land Rover Defender and Mercedes-Benz G-Class in Dubai, visit Auto Trader UAE at www.autotraders.ae and drive home your dream SUV today!