Pros:
- Built to endure tough conditions
- Packed with luxury and advanced features
- Delivers impressive performance
Cons:
- Large turning radius
What’s New?
- New turbocharged 6 cylinder engine in the G 550
- Subtle exterior updates
- Enhanced tech features
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class isn’t just a luxury SUV it’s an icon. Known for its rugged capability and bold personality it starts at around $146,000.
The G-Class has become a cultural symbol. You’ve seen it in action movies, where villains drive these intimidating SUVs. It’s not just about looks it’s about power and prestige. No one s getting chased by a RAV4 for a reason!
This luxury SUV blends serious off-road ability with a distinctive style, powerful engines and a level of luxury only Mercedes-Benz can deliver Instantly recognizable, the G-Class is built with care, taking about 100 hours to assemble at its Austrian factory
Introduced in 2019, the current generation carries the legacy of the original G-Class while offering modern upgrades. And unlike most AMG models, the high-performance G 63 AMG is a bestseller.
What’s New for 2025?
The G 550 gets a new turbocharged 6-cylinder engine with mild hybrid tech. The updated grille, bumpers, and aerodynamic tweaks improve performance and reduce cabin noise. New safety options include:
- Active Steering Assist
- Active Emergency Stop Assist
- Route-Based Speed Adaptation
Off-road enthusiasts will love the upgraded Off-Road Cockpit, which displays key details like altitude, compass direction, and tire pressures. A new Transparent Hood feature uses cameras to show the terrain under the SUV, helping drivers tackle tricky obstacles.
An all-electric G-Class is reportedly in development, but no launch date has been confirmed.
2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class Pricing
- G 550: Starts at $149,400 (KBB Fair Purchase Price: $143,872)
- G 580: Starts at $162,650
While pricey, the G-Class holds its value well. Before buying, check Kelley Blue Book for fair pricing.
For alternatives, the Porsche Cayenne starts at $80K, the Lexus LX 600 at $100K, and the Land Rover Range Rover at $110K. If you’re considering the AMG G 63, the BMW X5 M offers sporty performance for $124K. At the higher end, the Bentley Bentayga starts above $200K, while the Lamborghini Urus exceeds $250K.
Performance and Driving Experience
Power and Speed
The G 63 AMG produces a jaw dropping 577 horsepower, hitting 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. The G 550, now equipped with a 443 horsepower turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, reaches 60 mph in 5.3 seconds—0.3 seconds faster than last year’s V8 model.
Top speeds are capped at 130 mph, but if you need more, the AMG Driver’s Package allows the G 63 to hit 174 mph.
For comparison, the Range Rover’s 606-horsepower V8 takes 4.3 seconds to hit 60 mph but costs over $200K in its fastest configuration.
On-Road and Off-Road
The G-Class isn’t aerodynamic, so expect some wind noise on highways. However, the 2025 model’s new roof spoiler, A-pillar cladding, and extra insulation improve cabin quietness.
Its ride is smooth at highway speeds, and the steering is precise. But the large 44.6-foot turning radius makes tight parking tricky.
The AMG G 63 offers the most dynamic driving experience, with a standard adaptive suspension that balances comfort and sportiness. The G 550 also offers adaptive suspension as an option, and it’s worth considering.
Off-road, the G-Class shines with its 4-wheel-drive system, three locking differentials, and high/low-range transfer case. This combination makes it nearly unstoppable, whether climbing rocks or navigating mud.
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class remains a unique blend of luxury, performance, and capability. Whether you’re cruising city streets or conquering rugged terrain, this SUV stands out as an iconic and versatile powerhouse.
Fuel Economy
Fuel efficiency in the G-Class might make you chuckle or cringe, depending on your perspective. The G 63 AMG delivers just 14 mpg combined in city and highway driving. The more extreme G 63 4×4 Squared version does even worse, achieving only 11 mpg combined By contrast, the Range Rover s engines manage mileage in the high teens or low 20s.
The new G 550 engine is expected to improve slightly on last year’s 14 mpg combined, but official figures are still pending.
Plush and Practical Interior
Step inside the 2025 G Class, and you’re greeted with an upscale experience: leather upholstery wood accents heated front seats an analog clock and a premium Burmester surround-sound system. Climbing into the tall SUV is made easier by running boards and a grab handle for the front passenger
This year the Manufaktur personalization program expands with two-tone leather upholstery options a first for the G Class.
The cabin offers plenty of room, with 39.5 inches of rear legroom, though the narrower body compared to rivals like the Range Rover can make seating three in the back a bit tight
Cargo space is respectable at 38.1 cubic feet behind the rear seats, expanding to 68.6 cubic feet with them folded. However, the narrow width may require removing bike wheels or rearranging larger items. For comparison, the Range Rover offers slightly more space at 40.7/83.5 cubic feet.
Functional Exterior
The G Class stays true to its signature boxy design which is not only stylish but practical The shape accommodates tall passengers and provides excellent outward visibility. Drivers also appreciate the ability to easily judge the corners of the vehicle a key advantage for off roading
This year’s updates include:
- Cladding on the A-pillars
- An aerodynamic lip on the roof’s front edge
- Redesigned front and rear bumpers
- A refreshed grille with four horizontal slats
Key details remain functional. The spare wheel is mounted on the rear door to maximize ground clearance, and the door is side hinged for easy access. The G 550 comes with 19 inch alloy wheels while the G 63 AMG boasts 20 inch alloys, side exhaust pipes and a unique grille design.
Favorite Features and Tech
- Burmester Surround-Sound System: This 15 speaker, 590 watt audio setup comes standard and delivers top notch sound quality
- Dynamic Select Drive Modes: Choose from Slippery Comfort Sport Sport+ or customize your own settings with the Individual mode for tailored performance
- Guard 360: A standard security feature that alerts you via an app if the vehicle is tampered with or damaged while parked
- Heated/Ventilated/Massaging Front Seats: Optional multi contour seats bring luxury to rough terrains
- AMG Ride Control Suspension: Found in the G 63 AMG, this adaptive suspension enhances off-road capability and comfort, especially with the optional AMG Trail Package
- 4×4 Squared: A special version of the G 63 AMG featuring portal hubs for exceptional ground clearance
Engine and Transmission
The G 550 gets a new 3.0-liter inline-6 engine with a mild hybrid system, replacing the previous V8. It produces 443 horsepower (27 more than before) and 413 lb-ft of torque (a drop of 37 lb-ft). While torque is slightly reduced, it still offers plenty of strength. The mild hybrid setup also promises smoother performance and better fuel economy, though figures are not yet available.
The G 63 AMG keeps its 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8, producing a whopping 577 horsepower and 627 lb-ft of torque. Each AMG engine is hand-assembled, with a plaque signed by the technician—a signature AMG tradition.
Both engines pair with a 9-speed automatic transmission, tuned for quick shifts in the AMG variant The G Class includes standard all wheel drive and a high-range/low-range transfer case for superior off road performance
Warranty
The G Class comes with a 4-year/50,000 mile warranty, covering both the vehicle and powertrain This is standard for European luxury vehicles
Safety
While the G-Class hasn’t been crash-tested in the U.S., it received a 5-star overall rating from Euro NCAP, showcasing excellent safety standards.
The 2025 Mercedes Benz G Class balances rugged capability with luxury and modern tech making it a standout in the high end SUV segment. Whether on city streets or off road trails the G Class continues to redefine what a luxury SUV can be