The new electrical Mercedes-Benz G-Class is an “uncompromised” machine that the agency claims can outperform its combustion-engined sibling when driving off-road.
Known all through its growth because the EQG, the 4×4 will likely be generally known as the G580 with EQ Technology in manufacturing kind. The prolonged moniker represents a shift within the naming technique for electrical Mercedes automobiles, and likewise showcases how the G580 was developed to be a G-Class that simply occurs to be battery powered.
The G580 is nearly similar in design to the recently updated G450d, with a refined transforming of the engine grille and discrete EQ badges to set it aside. But there was intensive work to maximise aerodynamic effectivity, together with a brand new A-pillar design and a brand new spoiler lip on the entrance of the roof.
The G580 additionally includes a new aerodynamically sculpted bonnet, leading to a drag coefficient of 0.44, down from 0.48Cd for the newest G450d, and 0.53Cd for the previous-generation G. In one other transfer, the elective spare wheel holder mounted on the rear boot could be changed with a equally styled charging cable holder.
“The G is still the G,” mentioned Manuel Urstöger, the pinnacle of e-drive programs for Mercedes-Benz G. “It’s not just design or sound: for us the powertrain is about offering uncompromised off-road ability.”
The G580 makes use of 4 electrical motors, with one powering every wheel of the automobile. Each motor produces 145bhp, combining for a most output of 579bhp, together with a mammoth 859lb ft of torque.
The motors have been developed specifically for the G580, and every is pushed by a separate two-speed gearbox. Urstöger mentioned that the weird and extremely sophisticated powertrain was developed particularly to satisfy the exacting specs of the G division, and won’t be used elsewhere within the line-up.
“It was a tough project,” he mentioned, “but we achieved all our targets and because of that it’s better than the combustion-engined G when going off-road.”
From the skin, the variations are scant. The 2025 G-Class’ boxy silhouette stays, although the grille is now optionally fared-in (in addition to being illuminated round its edge). Compared to the gasoline model, the hood is barely raised and the rear wheel arches are a bit extra flared, with air curtain intakes reduce by means of to help with aerodynamics. At the rear, as a substitute for a spare tire, there is a new elective Design Box on the side-opening door. That can maintain the G 580’s charging cable or different equipment.
Chris Davies/SlashGear
That rear door can also be the place the badge is, and there the electrical G-Class debuts not solely a brand new EV in Mercedes’ lineup, however — in eschewing the rumored EQG nameplate for the SUV — a revamped naming technique, too. While present electrical fashions just like the EQS and EQE will preserve their names for now, future EVs might be rolled into the automaker’s conventional product nomenclature and distinguished with their drivetrain know-how tagged onto the top of that. So, a future luxurious electrical sedan may very well be the “S Class with EQ Technology.”
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Inside, options acquainted from the revamped gasoline G-Wagon are carried over. That means twin 12.3-inch dashboard shows, Mercedes’ MBUX infotainment system with wi-fi Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, normal Nappa leather-based, climate-controlled cupholders, ambient lighting, and a Burmester 3D Surround Sound system. Pride of place continues to be given over to the billet-like off-road drivetrain controls, although their perform is a bit modified within the G 580.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has minimal exterior modifications however important updates in engine choices and electrification expertise.
The G550 now encompasses a downsized inline-six engine with a 48-volt gentle hybrid system, boosting horsepower and enhancing gas financial system.
The AMG G63 retains its highly effective V-8 engine however positive factors a mild-hybrid system, enhancing low-end energy supply and total efficiency.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is without doubt one of the few automobiles within the trade whose design has remained largely related and seemingly unchanged for many years. It’s the identical recipe that the Porsche 911 has caught to, however that is a narrative for an additional day. The present technology of the G-Class first got here out in 2018, and the technology earlier than that was produced from 1990 to 2018. To say that the G-Class has one of many strongest identities within the automotive trade is an understatement, which is why, even with this facelift, the brand new 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class has barely modified.
But, that is most likely factor since you solely want just a few refinements to enhance what’s already a profitable system. Where a lot of the information lies is what’s beneath that boxy and angular sheet metallic. That’s as a result of for the 2025 mannequin 12 months of this Mercedes off-roader, the engine vary is a bit totally different, and the 2 engine decisions come as normal with electrification.
The electrical offroader may seem as early as 2027 and share a platform with the brand new Scout fashions
In order to provide the most recent and correct data attainable, the info used to compile this text was sourced from Mercedes-Benz.
Electrification Through A Mild Hybrid System
However, for those who had been anticipating a full hybrid or perhaps a plug-in hybrid, you then will not be impressed to listen to that the G-Class is being supplied with a alternative of two engines with a 48-volt gentle hybrid system. Yes, two engines are arriving within the United States, within the type of the G550 and the AMG G63, however the mannequin that has acquired probably the most drastic change is the G550, regardless of having the identical variant nomenclature.
G550 Downsizes To An Inline-Six
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That’s as a result of the G550 has downsized to an inline-six or a straight-six, a 3.0-liter turbocharged unit with a 48-volt mild hybrid system at that. However, because of that 48-volt system, which provides 20 horsepower and 148 pound-feet to that inline-six, the downsized however electrified drivetrain produces 27 extra horses than the 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V-8 it replaces, now at 443 horsepower. Torque, nevertheless, is down by 37 pound-feet, now at 413 pound-feet, however with the re-tuned nine-speed computerized, it ought to assist type issues out for the G550 when it comes to energy supply and gas economy–not {that a} G-Class purchaser cares about gas financial system within the first place.
As with each G-Class, the brand new 2025 fashions additionally include three locking differentials that allow them to traverse any terrain. Finally, a low-range gearbox ought to make straightforward work of having the ability to modulate your throttle throughout low grip, steep angle conditions.
The AMG G63 Also Comes With Mild Hybrid Assistance, But…
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Finally, we now get to the AMG G63, whose 4.0-liter twin-turbo V-8 produces 577 horsepower and 627 pound-feet of torque. But wait a minute, would not the 48-volt mild-hybrid system produce 20 further horses and 148 pound-feet of added torque? Why, sure, sure it does, however it contributes nothing to the on-paper whole system figures of the AMG G63.
While it would not add something to the facility equation, Mercedes-Benz says it improves the low-end energy supply of the V-8, which ought to assist in gas financial system. Again, not {that a} G-Class buyer–let alone somebody splurging for the obscenely highly effective AMG G63 is anxious about gas financial system, proper? Then once more, that is all in pursuit of decreasing the model’s total common CO2 emissions in whichever markets the model operates, so it is nonetheless all good nonetheless.
The upcoming Mercedes-Benz GLC PHEV might be a automobile that is proper for the instances as Americans desire hybrids in the intervening time.
Everything Else That’s New In The G-Class
Because it is a mid-cycle facelift, do not count on something radically totally different from the G-Class in 2025. However, it does include significant upgrades that enhance its drivability and value, particularly when going off-road.
No Anti-Roll Bars, No Problem
If you step as much as the AMG G63, the anti-roll bars are ditched in favor of a brand new AMG Active Ride Control suspension, which is an optionally available additional that is a part of the AMG Offroad Package Pro. Instead, what you get is hydraulic roll stabilization and adaptive adjustable damping, which improves dealing with and enhances experience consolation. As a part of an ongoing pattern with adaptive suspension, the adaptive shock absorbers are outfitted with two hydraulic connections–one for compression and the opposite for rebound. The damper chambers on all 4 wheels are linked through hydraulic strains and the management valves of the adaptive dampers.
While the adaptive shock absorbers on every wheel can work independently, the interconnection of the 4 suspension struts and strain regulation of the pump and management valves permits for a large breadth of capabilities. The system can work to scale back physique roll, whereas throughout off-road driving, improved wheel articulation permits all 4 wheels to keep up contact with the uneven terrain, thereby maximizing traction.
A Hood That Disappears From View, Sort Of
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Continuing on the theme of enhancing drivability and value, the brand new Mercedes-Benz G-Class might be outfitted with the optionally available Offroad Cockpit, which is one other layer within the MBUX infotainment system that shows off-roading data at a look. This additionally introduces the Transparent Hood operate, whereby a digicam underneath the automobile gives a transparent, unobstructed view of what is underneath the vehicle–as if the hood wasn’t there.
Since we’re nonetheless on the subject of drivability, the brand new G-Class now comes with three new superior driver-assistance techniques (ADAS). The first one is Active Steering Assist, which is Mercedes-Benz’s enhanced model of lane centering. Next is the Route-Based Speed Adaptation, which is principally full-speed adaptive cruise management that works at the side of the navigation system to gradual the automobile prematurely if it is coming to a bend or a roundabout, after which accelerates when the system deems acceptable. Lastly, the Active Emergency Stop Assist brings the automobile to a cease in its personal lane if the automobile thinks that the motive force is now not attentive to the driving scenario.
A singular mix of minivan utility and AMG thrill, this is how the Mercedes R63 AMG redefined the household hauler with energy and luxurious
Arriving At Dealers In The Second Half Of 2024
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The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class is arriving in sellers within the second half of 2024, which suggests there’s nonetheless loads of time to attend and cherry-pick optionally available extras to fit your wants. Actually, that is one thing value speaking about as a result of the brand new G-Class is extra customizable than ever, because of the model widening the scope of the Manufaktur personalization program of the G-Class.
Without Manufaktur, The G-Class Doesn’t Look Any Different
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Perhaps the explanation for Mercedes-Benz extending the personalization scope of Manufaktur within the G-Class is as a result of the outside modifications are so refined, that you will most likely have a tough time recognizing the variations between this G-Class and the pre-facelift mannequin. These are restricted to a brand new grille with 4 bars within the G550, a redesigned entrance bumper on each the G550 and an AMG-specific one for the G63, in addition to refined measures to assist aerodynamics. Notice the brand new black trim on the A-pillar and the spoiler lip on the roof edge, which each reduce wind noise in addition to enhance the aerodynamics of what’s primarily a field with wheels.
As you progress inside, a lot of the updates are likewise targeting the prolonged customization scope of Manufaktur. MBUX finally comes to the G-Class range (albeit the first-generation system), as a result of the G-Class was one of many final Mercedes-Benz fashions to nonetheless use the rotary dial-based COMAND infotainment.
As ordinary, this comes with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, whereas a number of the new inside options embody wi-fi charging, climate-controlled cupholders, and an optionally available MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System. This consists of two 11.6-inch contact shows, which allow rear seat passengers to observe films, browse the web, entry journey data, and extra.
Wait A Bit Longer For The Fully Electric EQG
What the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class additionally previews is the upcoming totally electrical EQG. While the EQG is anticipated to look way more totally different with its enclosed grille and square-shaped spare tire cowl, a lot of the minor aesthetic updates you see right here truly got here from lessons learned when developing the EQG. The EQG might be fitted with massive batteries, however Mercedes-Benz has additionally revealed that the EQG would be the first mannequin within the model’s secure to feature a silicon anode battery chemistry. This permits for a rise in vitality density by round 20-40 p.c in comparison with utilizing graphite.
Expect the EQG to additionally include quad-motor all-wheel drive (AWD), which can have the power to simulate having three locking differentials just like the gentle hybrid G-Class fashions that simply debuted. What we will additionally count on is a excessive price ticket. While Mercedes-Benz has not but revealed costs for the 2025 G550 and AMG G63, the current models cost $143,000 or $179,000, respectively.
There’s a new-ish G-Class that appears lots just like the previous one. However, Mercedes has made some adjustments beneath the pores and skin, chief of which is an inline-six changing the V8 contained in the G550. Over in Europe, the diesel engine is sticking round and is even getting extra energy. That’s a pleasant shock contemplating how strict emissions rules are within the EU.
Although photographs are usually not obtainable, the previous G400d is being retired to make manner for the G450d. It makes use of an evolution of the three.0-liter, inline-six turbodiesel engine massaged to pump out 362 horsepower and 553 pound-feet of torque. That offers it a bonus of 36 hp and 37 lb-ft over its predecessor. In addition, the brand new diesel has a mild-hybrid setup with an electrical motor good for an additional (albeit non permanent) 20 hp and 148 lb-ft.
The Mercedes G-Class vary has been absolutely electrified as a part of a considerable replace that additionally features a vary of measures to enhance each usability and effectivity.
The present technology of the vastly succesful off-roader was launched in 2018, and can shortly acquire a full-electric variant for the primary time. As a part of the facelift, Mercedes-AMG has additionally made substantial revisions to the G63.
The entry-level mannequin will proceed to make use of a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel, though it’s now mated to a 48V delicate hybrid built-in starter generator (ISG). That lifts energy by 20bhp to 362bhp, whereas considerably boosting torque to 553lb ft – which is why it has been rebadged from G400d to G450d.
The G500 will proceed to be supplied in some markets, with its 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line petrol unit now lifted to 442bhp and 413bhp.
While the G-Class seems just about similar to earlier than – “we fought hard to make the new G look like the old G,” mentioned mission supervisor Tony Mäntele – there are quite a few small design adjustments to spice up each effectivity and practicality.
There is a brand new entrance bumper and radiator grille, whereas the A-pillars have been subtly rounded off and a brand new lip added to the forefront of the windscreen. The latter two adjustments are designed to enhance aerodynamic effectivity and cut back inside noise, and had been impressed by developments for the electrical model. Through these and different minor developments, Mäntele claims the drag coefficient of the G-Class has been diminished from 0.53 to 0.48.
The front-facing digital camera has now been mounted decrease within the entrance bumper in order that it gives higher visibility of obstacles utilizing a brand new ‘transparent bonnet’ view – a change that required Mercedes to suit a small auto-deploying washer jet to make sure the digital camera stayed clear.
Inside, the G-Class features the newest model of the MBUX infotainment system – which implies it will get a touchscreen for the primary time – together with temperature-controlled cup holders and a wi-fi cell charger. In one other nod to practicality, the G-Class now options keyless entry for the primary time; whereas a seemingly minor tweak, it required substantial work to put in with out redesigning the door deal with itself.
The off-road ‘control centre’ in the midst of the dashboard has additionally been revamped to offer simpler entry to key capabilities. What hasn’t modified is the off-road functionality of the mannequin: it has floor clearance of 229mm, a fording depth of 70cm, a 31 diploma angle of strategy and the flexibility to stay secure on inclines of as much as 35 levels.
UK pricing particulars for the revamped G-Class line-up have but to be revealed.
A smaller model of the Mercedes-Benz G-Class shall be electric-only when it launches later within the decade.
The mannequin shall be developed by Mercedes’ new specialist G division because the third mannequin in an expanded G vary, after the upcoming Mercedes EQG.
Mercedes technical chief Markus Schäfer confirmed the powertrain plans to Autocar on the current CES in Las Vegas, dismissing options that the mannequin is also provided with hybridised inside combustion engines.
The mannequin was first confirmed by firm CEO Ola Källenius on the Munich motor show, the place he referred to it because the “little G… a son or daughter of the iconic big G”.
Mercedes-Benz design chief Gorden Wagener advised Autocar that the brand new machine will take sturdy design cues from the “iconic DNA” of the present G-Class, saying: “It will have its own character, but it will be a G.”
The G-Class line-up will develop first later this 12 months with the new electrical Mercedes EQG, and Autocar understands the brand new ‘little G’ will observe in 2026.
Mercedes has launched a brand new Mercedes Modular Architecture (MMA) that shall be used for a variety of entry-level automobiles within the coming years, beginning with the brand new Mercedes-Benz CLA, however Schäfer confirmed that the ‘little G’ will sit on a distinct platform, utilizing modules from Mercedes’ bigger rear-driven automobiles, as a result of its want to supply true off-roading potential.
That means the platform shall be completely different – however prone to take learnings from – that of the full-sized EQG, which can use a reworked model of the present ICE G-Class’s ladder-frame chassis and shall be powered by 4 electrical motors.
As properly as giving Mercedes a foothold within the more and more in style rugged crossover market, the newborn G-Class shall be essential in establishing G as a Mercedes sub-brand in the identical vein as Maybach and AMG, constructing on the success of its blocky Land Rover Defender rival. Indeed, G is now its personal specialist division inside Mercedes, similar to Maybach and AMG
Källenius stated final 12 months: “Most luxurious firms construct their portfolio on the premise of 1 or two true icons. Mercedes-Benz has the great fortune to have a number of iconic merchandise and types on the higher finish of its portfolio, such because the S-Class, the SL, the G-Class in addition to the AMG and Maybach manufacturers.
“We see great potential here to expand our top-end portfolio with even more fascinating products.”
His feedback trace on the chance for every of these 4 manufacturers to spawn extra complete line-ups.
Like the upcoming CLA, the brand new compact SUV is prone to have an 800V electrical structure, permitting for 248 miles of vary to be added in simply quarter-hour through a 250kW charger.
Even although Mercedes-Benz saved calling the closely revised G-Class that it launched in 2018 the W463, it introduced greater modifications than any earlier replace, so it could have deserved its personal distinctive chassis designation. If you’ve got ever been in a pre-2018 G-Class, then the cabin feels fairly slender, so the truth that the up to date model was 4.8 inches wider actually made a distinction.
It additionally grew in size, and the general end result was significantly extra shoulder and elbow room, in addition to extra rear knee room. As with earlier iterations, the second-generation W463 obtained the most recent Mercedes inside, full with Mercedes’ twin 12.3-inch display setup, and between this and the newfound house, it remodeled what being aboard a G-Class is like. New turbocharged engines helped enhance efficiency to unseen heights, like in the current Mercedes-AMG G63, which has a 577-horsepower twin-turbo V8, and it reaches sixty in 4.5 seconds.
With the elevated monitor width, the G-Class was additionally significantly higher and extra secure to drive on the street, once more marking a giant departure from any older model. The similar mannequin is on sale as we speak, with a beginning worth of $139,900 with out vacation spot fees. The most cost-effective used 2018 and 2019 mannequin 12 months examples at present have a median asking worth of just below $100,000, making this the costliest G-Class technology.
It’s value noting that a number of the costliest mannequin variants are primarily based on the primary W463. In truth, 4×4² fashions, no matter which W463 they’re primarily based on, will nonetheless value a whole bunch of 1000’s even when purchased used. For context, the 2023 Mercedes-AMG G63 4×4² has a beginning worth of $349,000, however with choices, it could actually go north of $400,000.
The Mercedes-Benz G-Class is known for combining off-road capability and luxurious facilities right into a boxy package deal. While we see loads of tuned examples, they typically construct off the SUV’s efficiency or rugged functionality. This overlanding conversion takes a distinct strategy, permitting as much as three folks to spend the evening onboard.
This equipment comes from the German firm Terracamper. The largest spotlight is the unit’s modular nature, permitting prospects to retrofit their G-Class with out having to make any everlasting cuts or holes within the physique. It attaches into the rear of cabin by way of current factors, which means if you wish to convert your SUV again to inventory, you simply can. The improve prices the equal of $11,866 (11,000 euros).
The 2024 Mercedes-AMG G63 is set to bring some exciting changes to the G-Class. One notable improvement is the replacement of anti-roll bars with semi-active dampers, which not only enhances the vehicle’s performance but also provides an as-yet-unspecified weight reduction.
Another enhancement to look forward to is the improved wheel articulation, which is expected to enhance the G63’s off-road capabilities. Additionally, the 2024 G63 will feature a new mild-hybrid powertrain, similar to the one used in the GLE 63.
This powertrain combines AMG’s twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre petrol V8 with a 48V starter-generator, resulting in a combined output of 603bhp and 627lb ft of torque. This innovative powertrain brings both power and efficiency to the G63.
New 2024 Mercedes G-Class first ride review
During our test drive of the upcoming G63 near Leipzig, Germany, Ralf Haug, head of suspension at Mercedes-AMG, describes the G-Class’s new kinetic suspension set-up as a significant advancement in suspension development.
The idea to implement this kinetic suspension system in the G-Class came after AMG started developing it for their new SL and GT models. Haug further explains that the benefits seen in their sports cars sparked the idea to bring similar advantages to their off-road vehicles.
Although it’s still in the early stages of development, the prototype we rode in gave us an insight into the improvements to expect. The 2024 G63 seems to offer better handling and a smoother ride compared to the current model.
Spy shots indicate that Mercedes-Benz is working on a refreshed version of the G-Class. Recent reports from UK publication Autocar, who had the chance to ride in one of the prototypes, suggest that the updated SUV will feature new suspension technology. Motor1.com has reached out to Mercedes for further details about these changes.
The refreshed G63 is said to offer an optional suspension system that replaces the traditional anti-roll bars with a continually variable electro-hydraulic system. This new technology utilizes flow valves located on each damper to transfer fluid from side to side through valves. To effectively distribute the fluid, a gas-filled metal sphere is incorporated at each axle to act as an accumulator.
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