2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class ups its off-road chops
New electrified engine provides
better performance on- and off-road
(April 1, 2024) The Mercedes-Benz G-Class has long been regarded as an automotive icon and this latest generation reinforces its leading position among luxury off-road vehicles. The all-new G 550 impresses with improved performance from the electrified powertrain, expanded driver assistance systems, elevated comfort and enhanced technology.
The model series now offers the most diverse portfolio to date and extensive customization options. Established in 1979, the G-Class has evolved from its utilitarian roots while retaining its unmistakable character. The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G 550 arrives at U.S. dealerships in second half of 2024.
"The all-new G-Class raises the bar for real adventure on and off the road yet again. With an electrified drive portfolio, our pioneering MBUX infotainment system and additional comfort and off-road functions, it's poised to continue its success story as THE Geländewagen. The all-new G-Class combines an outstanding driving experience with a state-of-the-art digital experience," said Markus Schäfer, member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Ben.
The off-road icon features a proven ladder-frame design, three mechanical differential locks, LOW RANGE off- road gear reduction, solid rear axle and independent front suspension. High ground clearance and long-travel suspension form the basis for the off-road prowess of the all-new G-Class. The specs speak for themselves:
1 Ability to climb up to a 100 percent grade on suitable surfaces
2 9.5 inches of ground clearance between the axles
3 Maximum fording depth of 27.6 inches
4 High stability on lateral slopes of up to 35 degrees
5 31-degree approach angle and 30-degree departure angle (without tow hitch)
The engine in the new G 550 is now fully electrified with 48-volt mild hybrid technology for increased performance and efficiency. The first fully electric variant of the G-Class will round out the model portfolio at a later date.
The new Mercedes-Benz G 550 continues the design tradition of the model series' distinctive silhouette. The exterior design features subtle changes, including a radiator grille with four horizontal louvers instead of the previous three, as well as new front and rear bumpers. The front bumper boasts a new air inlet grille design with a rounded square pattern. New A-pillar trim and a spoiler lip on the roof edge contribute to improved aerodynamics, and, in combination with new insulation materials also improve noise levels.
With the integration of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system, the 2025 G 550 is more connected than ever before. KEYLESS-GO, climate-controlled cup holders, Burmester 3D Surround Sound System and the available MBUX High-End Rear-Seat Entertainment System are among the many new comfort features. The all-new model also introduces new and improved driver assistance technology. The MANUFAKTUR range is also further expanded to enable extensive customization of the interior and exterior.
The all-new Mercedes-Benz G 550 is powered by a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with turbocharging via an exhaust gas turbocharger and an electric auxiliary compressor, delivering 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque. A 48-volt integrated starter generator (ISG) provides support at lower engine speeds with an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft.
The 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission with torque converter is specially adapted to the needs of the G 550. The wide spread of gear ratios makes driving comfortable and quiet, especially at low engine speeds, while also optimizing efficiency.
The transmission design and calibration ensure fast, smooth gear changes and also enables rapid intermediate spurts of acceleration. Three speed sensors allow for what is known as skip shifting, in which – depending on the driving situation — several gears are skipped. The shift behavior changes based on the preselected DYNAMIC SELECT drive program. Drivers can also manually control gear changes using the DIRECT SELECT shift paddles on the steering wheel.