2024 Buick Encore GX vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2024 Buick Encore GX was a striking addition to the Buick lineup, drawing inspiration from the 2022 Wildcat concept. This refreshed model boasted a new front design with sleek daytime running lights above the grille and angular LED headlamps positioned lower on either side. The Avenir trim featured a unique grille and chrome accents, enhancing its sophisticated appearance. While the rear design remained largely unchanged from 2023, the top trims received new LED tail lights. The Encore GX offered a range of vibrant colours, including brilliant red, deep blue, maroon, and Copper Ice Metallic, with options for a black roof and mirrors on the Sport Touring trim. Inside, the relocation of HVAC vents made way for a 19-inch glass panel housing the digital gauge cluster and touchscreen, lending a premium, tech-savvy look despite some cheap-feeling plastics.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its heritage dating back to 1979. While subtle styling updates were made, such as a new grille and bumpers, the traditional flat hood, prominent corner lights, and beefy doors remained unchanged. The G-Class exuded character with its loud clacking door latches and utilitarian roots. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the G 550. The AMG G 63 featured 20-inch wheels with optional 22-inch wheels and carbon-fibre trim. The interior was opulent, with large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, while AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels. The G-Class offered a million combinations of exterior paint and interior trim through the Manufaktur program.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX retained its 1.3-litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine in Canada, delivering 155 horsepower and 174 lb-ft of torque. Paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission, the Encore GX offered a responsive driving experience, reaching 100 km/h in about nine seconds. While not the quickest in its class, it provided a smooth city ride with a selectable AWD system for inclement weather. However, highway passing required patience due to a delay in downshifting, and a manual control option was absent.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included the G 550 with a new turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8 with 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent 4WD. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved it in 4.2 seconds. The AMG G 63 introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics, while the G 550 excelled in low-speed off-road driving.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX, as a subcompact SUV, offered limited utility but competitive cargo space. With 665 litres behind the rear seats and 1,422 litres with seats folded, it accommodated items up to eight feet long. Standard features included heated front seats and a heated steering wheel, with optional Bose audio and a moonroof.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, though not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, provided ample headroom and a commanding driving position. Cargo space was 640 litres with rear seats in place, and the side-hinged tailgate facilitated loading. With a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, it rivalled midsize pickup trucks. The G-Class offered excellent visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX featured an 11-inch touchscreen and 8-inch digital gauge cluster under one glass pane. While visually appealing, the screens left unused space. It included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB ports, a wireless charging pad, and a rear camera mirror. The infotainment system was simple, with easy-to-read tiles for essential functions.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens created a continuous display, with off-road menus and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced usability. A Burmester 3D surround sound system, dashcam, and rear-seat entertainment system were expected to be standard.

The 2024 Buick Encore GX came with the Driver Confidence package, including lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring. Rear park assist and adaptive cruise control were optional. Unique features included Teen Driver and Buckle to Drive. The NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, while the 2023 model received high marks from the IIHS.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lacked safety ratings from IIHS and NHTSA. Expected standard features included forward-collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and a 360-degree camera system. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.