2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class: Here’s why the new lineup is the most exciting yet

Mercedes’s famed G-Class SUV, colloquially known as the G-Wagon, returns for the 2025 model year with some exciting additions. These range from electrifying existing models to introducing an all-new, fully-electric G-Class.

Mercedes-Benz brings a touch of electricity to the G 550 for more power and better economy

The G 550 returns with what some call “mild hybrid” technology, or MHEV. In addition to the turbocharged 3.0L inline six-cylinder, a 48-volt integrated starter generator adds extra torque during hard acceleration, and regenerative braking energy is stored in a 48-volt battery. This setup results in a 0.3-second quicker 0-60 mph time and a 30% improvement in city fuel economy.

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The G 550’s interior is as fancy as you’d expect

Inside, the new G 550 goes fully digital, featuring a 12.3-inch instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment system. Burmester and Dolby Atmos have joined forces to create a 3D surround sound system, delivering top-tier audio as you cruise down Rodeo Drive. Mercedes also teases a “new multifunction steering wheel,” although the specifics of that remain to be seen.

The G-Wagon was originally meant for off-road use, something that Mercedes-Benz emphasizes

New convenience features designed to enhance the G 550's off-road capability — for those who actually take their G-Wagon off the beaten path — include the Off-road Cockpit with "transparent hood views." This system is essentially a 360-degree camera that provides the driver with a clear view of what's directly beneath the front wheels, helping to avoid rocks and other obstacles that could damage the undercarriage.

The Keyless-Go system, Mercedes-Benz’s fancier version of a keyless entry and start system usually seen on the GLE and S-Class, comes standard on the G 550.

Slight exterior changes make the G 550 quieter and more aerodynamic

The exterior design has been slightly updated, featuring a refreshed radiator grille with four horizontal louvers and redesigned front and rear bumpers. The roof now sports a spoiler lip for better aerodynamics, while new A-pillar cladding and insulation materials help keep the outside noise out of your cushy cabin.

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Additional options are available for those with an eye for customization

Optional equipment includes new paints, upholsteries, and trims, along with more customization options under Mercedes-Benz’s MANUFAKTUR program. You can also choose from either 18” or 20” wheels in a variety of new designs and finishes.

The G 580 joins the family as the first fully-electric G-Wagon

Those looking to electrify their G-Wagon experience can look to the new G 580, the first fully electric Mercedes-Benz G-Class.

Electricity doesn’t keep the G 580 from tackling trails

Just because it’s electric doesn’t mean it can’t be taken off-road. The G 580 features a ladder frame design with independent front suspension and a solid rear axle. A selectable low-range feature works similarly to a range selector on an ICE vehicle, and despite the lack of a mechanical differential, Mercedes has integrated a virtual locking differential using torque vectoring.

Numerous off-road-specific functions come exclusively to the electric G-Wagon, all featuring the "G" prefix. G-Turn is the 360-degree turn you've likely seen online, while G-Steering locks the inside rear wheel for tighter turns.

Then there's “G-ROAR,” which brings an ICE-like driving sound to the G 580, along with an “aura” and various “event” sounds. It could probably use a better name.

Plenty of juice and power for any adventure

Power and off-road capability come from four electric motors, one at each wheel, and a 116-kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery integrated into the ladder frame for a lower center of gravity.

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Subtle but useful exterior changes

The E-G-Wagon, as I’ll call it, has a slightly raised hood, new A-pillar trim, a roof lip spoiler, and rear wheel flares with air curtains for better aerodynamics and a quieter cabin.

The V8 G 63 makes a triumphant return

At the top of the lineup, and the G-Wagon most people think of, is the Mercedes-AMG G 63. The beefiest G is still powered by the hand-built AMG 4.0L V8 biturbo but now features the aforementioned 48-volt integrated starter generator, giving it a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds. This is somewhat confusing, given that Car & Driver testing netted a 3.9-second 0-60.

Similar features from the G 550 carry over to the G 63, but with more options

The same 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system from the G 550 also appear in the G 63, along with the Off-road Cockpit camera system and Keyless-Go. The front bumper and other exterior areas receive slight revisions but remain mostly unchanged.

New optional equipment includes the AMG Active Ride Control suspension with active hydraulic roll stabilization for sharper turns on the track. If this sounds like something your G 63 experience needs, you’ll need to opt for the AMG Performance Package and AMG Offroad Package PRO. Details on what else those packages include are yet to be revealed.

There are also four new wheel designs to choose from, along with more MANUFAKTUR customization and paint options.

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Final thoughts

The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is now more varied than ever. The German marque seems to have all its bases covered, with a G-Wagon for every type of customer. I initially questioned the decision to electrify the G-Class, but considering that most of these vehicles are used as mall crawlers rather than rock crawlers, it starts to make more sense.

Thankfully, the twin-turbo V8-powered G 63 is still around to put most other SUVs in their place. The addition of the 48-volt integrated starter generator is a smart way to incorporate electrification into an ICE vehicle without forcing it on the customer.

Overall, the G 550, G 580, and G 63 form a well-rounded family of luxury SUVs with genuine off-road prowess for those who want it. If only more SUV manufacturers took notes from Mercedes-Benz, we’d see fewer uninspired, egg-shaped cars on the road.

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