Not every off-road SUV has an opulent cabin, but the iconic 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class proves why that's all right—and why it's OK to settle for less if you want to do some overlanding.
The Mercedes G-Class, or Geländewagen, as it’s affectionately known, offers an extravagant interior and three trim levels, each with standard all-wheel drive (AWD) and different powertrain options.
A turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine powers the base G 550, while a sporty twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 engine goes in the AMG G 63. Four electric motors power the G 580 with EQ technology.
The iconic boxy and structured silhouette remains with minor updates to the exterior of the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class. Mercedes says the updates improve aerodynamics and reduce cabin noise levels, adding to the SUV's luxurious feel. Up front, circular multi-beam LED headlights frame the square chrome grille and large Mercedes-Benz logo. Above that is the new, slightly raised hood and redesigned windshield pillars.
A long, raised contour line stretches alongside the new G-Class, with gaps for the utilitarian door handles. The flat roof hangs over the doors and liftgate around the back. At the rear, a new spoiler lip sits atop the roof's edge.
Mercedes raised the front and back wheel arches, the latter more flared than in previous models. The updated 2025 G-Class also retains the iconic spare wheel housing on the liftgate. The SUV has three alloy wheel options: 18, 19, and 20 inches.
The G 580 with Mercedes EQ technology receives similar updates, except for the updated grille and square spare wheel housing, which are practically indistinguishable from their internal combustion engine (ICE) counterparts.
An AMG hood badge, a vertical dark chrome grille, and 20-inch AMG alloy wheels differentiate the AMG G 63 from other trim levels.
A deluxe interior is a Mercedes-Benz hallmark and the 2025 G-Class benefits from this. Mercedes uses high-quality materials and great design to create an inviting ambiance.
Mercedes positions standard dual 12.3-inch displays seamlessly behind the steering wheel and above the center console. The driver display shows the speedometer, tachometer, and odometer, while the central display houses the new MBUX infotainment system. Below the infotainment screen are circular air vents, three-zone climate control buttons, and the off-road control center. The latter provides easy access to three differential lock settings, simplifying the shift to off-roading.
As before, the 2025 G-Class seats five across two rows. Leather upholstery comes standard, and the front seats are heated and ventilated, are 10-way power-adjustable, and offer massage.
Acoustic glass is standard on the G-Class to help reduce wind and road noise. This allows you to enjoy music better on the Burmester 3D surround-sound audio system with Dolby Atmos, which is standard on all trim levels. Thanks to the standard climate-controlled cupholders, your beverages will stay chilled and heated.
The 2025 Mercedes G 550 and AMG G 63 have a 48-volt mild hybrid powertrain. Mercedes claims this technology allows for quicker engine response, smoother acceleration, and better fuel efficiency.
Along with the 48-volt integrated starter generator (ISG) and nine-speed automatic transmission, the G 550 has a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine. Altogether, the powertrain produces 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes says the G550 can go from zero-to-60 mph in 5.3 seconds.
The AMG G 63's twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8 also benefits from the hybrid ISG and is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. It packs 577 hp and 627 pound-feet of torque. The automaker claims it can go from zero-to-60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
Possessing an even more unique—and potent—powertrain, the G 580 with EQ technology uses four electric motors to yield 579 hp and a staggering 859 pound-feet of torque. Mercedes claims zero-to-60-mph acceleration of 4.6 seconds. The G 580 features a 116-kWh high-voltage lithium-ion battery, which the automaker says gives it a low center of gravity, thus improving handling. According to Mercedes, the G 580's battery pack can charge from 10 to 80 percent in approximately 32 minutes.
Adaptive dampers are standard on the 2025 G-Class. The AMG G 63 also has an optional active ride-control suspension system that Mercedes says helps the wheels stay on the ground and increases traction.
Mercedes equips the 2025 G-Class with safety features and technology to make driving safe and convenient. Keyless entry, which allows you to lock and unlock the front doors by touching the door handles, comes standard. Also standard is a 64-color ambient lighting system and a wireless charging station.
Tricky off-roading situations become more manageable with the standard Transparent Hood, which provides a virtual view under the front of the vehicle through the central display and 360-degree camera.
Along with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the new MBUX infotainment system displays navigation and traffic information captured by the onboard cameras. It also shows traffic light status and houses the voice assistant, which responds to "Hey, Mercedes."
The new G-Class has a wide range of advanced driver assistance systems, including active parking assistance, adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot warning, lane-keeping assistance, and a surround-view camera.
Interestingly, the G 580 with EQ technology supplements the quiet electric motors with different combustion engine sounds, adding a visceral touch to the driving experience.
A comfortable interior and robust off-roading capability make the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class somewhat unique. Its long history of luxury and capability makes it easy to see why it's so desirable. While the G-Class is somewhat of a unicorn, its closest rival is the also-luxurious and capable Land Rover Range Rover. Other large luxury SUVs with credible off-road ability include the Land Rover Defender, Lexus LX, and Toyota Land Cruiser.
Mercedes-Benz is the source of information in this article. It was accurate as of May 07, 2024, but it may have changed since that date. Always confirm product details and availability with the automaker's website or your local dealership.
Zac Johnson is a lifelong car enthusiast pursuing his dream of becoming an automotive journalist. He is a social media manager, contributor to JDPower.com, and founder of Best Daily Drivers.
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