G-Class vs Land Cruiser
Mercedes-Benz versus Toyota: the G-Class and the Land Cruiser go after the same midsize off-road suv buyer. The gap between the G-Class and the Land Cruiser is narrow enough that price, looks or habit could reasonably tip it.
At a glance
- Engine & Performance G-Class wins
- Space & Practicality Tie
- Off-road & Towing Tie
- Engine & Performance8.8
- Engine & Performance5.6
Spec scores (0 to 10) are calculated from manufacturer specs against other models in the same class. See how the formula works. They are not reviews or user ratings.
Key Differences
-
The G-Class has 117 hp more power
This is a headline difference. With 443 hp to the Land Cruiser’s 326 hp, the G-Class has a lead that’s easy to see on paper and in practice. More power helps with merging, overtaking and climbing hills, especially with passengers and luggage on board.
-
The Land Cruiser has 52 lb-ft more torque
Think of it as a tiebreaker rather than a deal-breaker: 465 lb-ft for the Land Cruiser, 413 lb-ft for the G-Class. More torque means stronger pulling from low speeds, which you feel when accelerating from a stop or climbing grades.
Design & Size
Engine & Performance
G-Class leads
Few areas are as clear-cut as this one: the G-Class leads the engine & performance section with room to spare. The G-Class makes its case with 117 hp more power. The G-Class’s extra output gives it more in reserve when you need to get up to speed. The Land Cruiser adds 52 lb-ft more torque. So if engine & performance tops your list, lean toward the G-Class.
Total system output
G-Class: 443 hp Land Cruiser: 326 hp Power is only part of the story; weight, gearing and torque delivery shape how quick a car feels.
Torque
G-Class: 413 lb-ft Land Cruiser: 465 lb-ft The Land Cruiser’s extra torque makes it more relaxed when fully loaded or towing.
Space & Practicality
Too close to call
On space & practicality, the G-Class and the Land Cruiser are effectively level. For space & practicality, pick whichever you prefer for other reasons.
Off-road & Towing
Too close to call
Side by side, the off-road & towing figures for the G-Class and the Land Cruiser barely differ. Don’t let off-road & towing decide this one; look at the other sections instead.
Safety & Tech
The G-Class and the Land Cruiser differ on safety & tech in ways that are described rather than measured. The table has the details.
Full Specifications
Engine & Performance
| Spec | G-Class | Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Powertrain | Gas (48V mild hybrid) | Hybrid |
| Engine | 3.0L turbo I6 | 2.4L turbo I4 hybrid (i-FORCE MAX) |
| Total system output | 443 hp (winner) Most powerful in class | 326 hp |
| Torque | 413 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft (winner) |
| Transmission | 9-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | 4WD (low range) | Full-time 4WD |
Fuel Economy & Range
| Spec | G-Class | Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel economy (combined)EPA estimate where available | 18 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (city) | 17 mpg | N/A (not specified) |
| Fuel economy (highway) | 19 mpg Thirstiest on the highway | N/A (not specified) |
Space & Practicality
| Spec | G-Class | Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Off-road & Towing
| Spec | G-Class | Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Max towing | N/A (not specified) | 6,000 lb |
| AWD / 4WD available | Yes | Yes |
Safety & Tech
| Spec | G-Class | Land Cruiser |
|---|---|---|
| Basic warranty | 4 yr / 50,000 mi | 3 yr / 36,000 mi |
“N/A” means the manufacturer does not specify the value or we could not confirm it. Figures marked “manufacturer rating” are the maker’s own claims, not our measurements.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the G-Class if…
- you want more power (443 hp vs 326 hp)
- you already know your way around Mercedes-Benz’s products
Choose the Land Cruiser if…
- you want more pulling power from low speeds (465 lb-ft vs 413 lb-ft of torque)
- you already use other Toyota products
Also Compared
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for most people, the G-Class or the Land Cruiser?
We’d point most buyers to the G-Class. The main exception is if you’d rather have 52 lb-ft more torque on the Land Cruiser.
Executive Summary
Here’s the short version of how I’d choose between the G-Class and the Land Cruiser. To me, the standout is that the G-Class offers 117 hp more power. The Land Cruiser isn’t without merit: 52 lb-ft more torque is a real advantage.
I think of the G-Class as the one for engine & performance and the Land Cruiser as the one for pulling power.
My pick: I think most people will be happier with the G-Class, unless what you want most is 52 lb-ft more torque.
Personal opinion based on the data above. Your priorities may differ.