Give Mercedes-Benz credit for orchestrating the G-class SUV’s transition from a one-time military transporter to a revered luxury icon. The 2025 G550 shares a silhouette and all-terrain competence with the spartan 1979 original, but its six-figure price tag, highly customizable nature, and a plethora of luxury gear push it close to the ultra-lux realm occupied by vehicles such as the Bentley Bentayga and the Mercedes-Maybach GLS600. The G’s impressive off-road capability comes with a compromise to its on-road handling, however. The G550 isn’t exactly crude when being used to commute or road-trip, but you can never quite forget its truckish nature. A turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six makes 443 horsepower and is mated to a nine-speed automatic and standard all-wheel drive. More serious off-roaders can add all sorts of journey-enhancing equipment; the G Professional model, for example, features meaty tires, an adaptive suspension system, and fancy-but-rugged trim and upholstery. Even so, many buyers will choose a G-class for its unique style and the status-heightening effect that such ownership brings. For an even more audacious G, check out the performance-focused Mercedes-AMG G63, which we review separately.
What’s New for 2025?
The G-class is getting more aerodynamic for 2025. No, it isn’t morphing into a curvy crossover à la the EQS SUV, but subtle styling revisions are intended to help the G550 cut through the air a little easier. (They’ll be shared with the new electric version of the G.) The grille, front bumper, and A-pillars have all been reshaped, and a little spoiler on the roof’s leading edge helps direct air up and over the SUV. The biggest change is under the hood where the 2024 model’s V-8 engine has been swapped out in favor of a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six with a 48-volt hybrid system. Horsepower is up—to 443 ponies—but torque is down slightly; acceleration performance should be similar though. Inside, the MBUX infotainment interface takes up residency on the G550’s dashboard. The updated software provides more connectivity, including an optional rear-seat entertainment system with two 11.6-inch displays that can stream video or browse the web. Elsewhere, a new 360-degree camera system can show the driver what’s underneath the G-class, more personalization options have been added to the Manufaktur program, and an adaptive cruise control system with a lane-centering feature is now available.
