Mercedes-Benz G-Class Review

As the luxury electric SUV market continues to expand rapidly, the hard-core off-road IP transitioning to pure electric has become a new highlight. The Mercedes-Benz G-Class, which has long topped the luxury hard-core SUV market, has now launched the all-electric 2025 G580 model, combining its iconic boxy design with a dual-motor system delivering 590 horsepower, while priced lower than the gasoline-powered 2020 G350 d. The main focus of this test drive is to verify whether this electric G-Class retains its traditional off-road genes and whether it meets the needs of luxury users for city commuting and range performance.

The exterior of the 2025 G580 retains the G-Class's iconic boxy silhouette. The front grille has been changed to a closed design with a star-studded pattern inside, paired with the classic round LED headlights on both sides, maintaining its high recognition. The vehicle's side features straight waistlines and exposed door hinges, with 20-inch alloy wheels fitted with 275/50 R20 tires, providing a minimum ground clearance of 250mm, without compromising its off-road stance. At the rear, the exterior-mounted spare tire cover integrates a charging port, and the trapezoidal guard plate design is retained on the rear bumper. The LED taillights, treated with a smoked finish, enhance its sporty appearance. The overall design inherits classic styling while integrating electric vehicle elements into the details.

Inside the vehicle, the interior still showcases Mercedes-Benz's signature luxury style. The dashboard is wrapped in extensive soft-touch leather, accented with metal trims and piano black panels, offering a texture befitting its luxury positioning. A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display paired with a fully digital instrument cluster forms a dual-screen setup, equipped with the MBUX intelligent system supporting voice control and smartphone connectivity. The front seats feature electric adjustment capabilities, providing excellent contouring and support. The rear seats offer a 60:40 split-folding function with ample legroom, allowing even passengers who are 1.8 meters tall to have two fists' worth of space between their knees and the seat in front. The trunk provides 667 liters of capacity, which is sufficient for everyday luggage or a baby stroller, and the rear seats can be folded down to expand the space further. Additionally, the panoramic sunroof, Burmester sound system, and independent rear air conditioning enhance overall comfort.

In terms of power, the G580 is equipped with front and rear dual permanent magnet synchronous motors, delivering a combined output of 434kW (590PS) and a peak torque of 1164Nm. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is just 4.7 seconds. During the test drive, switching to the sport mode provided a strong push-back feeling during acceleration from a standstill, and stepping on the accelerator for overtaking produced an instant response, making it hard to believe this is an SUV weighing over 3 tons. Even in economy mode, the power output remains smooth, suitable for city commuting. The suspension features a front double wishbone independent suspension and a rear rigid axle non-independent suspension, tuned for a firm ride while maintaining a certain level of comfort. When driving over speed bumps or uneven roads, the suspension quickly absorbs the bumps, and the body experiences no excessive shake. High-speed cornering sees the body tilt controlled within a reasonable range, and combined with the precise steering, the handling exceeded expectations.

In terms of off-road performance, the G580's full-time four-wheel-drive system combined with a 250mm ground clearance handles light off-road conditions with ease. During the cross-axle tests at the test drive site, the electronic slip-control system was able to promptly lock the slipping wheels, helping the vehicle escape difficult situations. Regarding range, the official figure for the 116kWh lithium battery pack is 473 kilometers. After driving 100 kilometers each on congested urban roads and highways, the displayed remaining range was 268 kilometers, achieving about 90% of the expected range, which is in line with expectations. In fast-charging mode, the battery can charge up to 80% in 30 minutes, while slow charging takes 12 hours, accommodating different recharging scenarios. Additionally, the vehicle's noise control is well-executed. At high speeds of 120km/h, wind noise and road noise are minimal, with only a slight noise from the electric motor penetrating the cabin under high load conditions.

In summary, the core advantage of the 2025 G580 all-electric version lies in the "balance between heritage and innovation"—it retains the classic rugged design and off-road capability of the G-Class, while achieving stronger power output and lower daily operating costs through electrification. Compared to models in the same segment, its acceleration performance of 4.7 seconds surpasses most luxury fuel-powered SUVs, and its starting price of 958,800 MYR is lower than the 2020 G350 d fuel-powered version, making it highly cost-effective.

This car is suitable for two groups of people: first, families seeking luxury and performance, as its 2,890mm wheelbase provides ample space for daily use, while the electrified powertrain and intelligent configurations enhance commuting convenience; second, loyal G-Class fans who wish to retain the classic design and off-road capability while experiencing the performance upgrades brought by electrification.

In conclusion, the 2025 Mercedes-Benz G580 all-electric version is an uncompromising electric rugged SUV—it does not compromise its off-road DNA due to electrification, but instead broadens the usage scenarios of luxury rugged SUVs with stronger power and lower operating costs. It stands as a successful example of a traditional IP transitioning to electrification.