2024 Lexus RX vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2024 Lexus RX, following its recent redesign, presented a somewhat polarizing exterior. Its front end was characterized by a large trapezoidal grille, which, rather than being a separate design element, started within the bodywork, creating an awkward appearance, especially in lighter colours. The hood added to the bulky look with a prominent bump, contrasting sharply with the sleeker designs of previous RX models. The sides featured bulging body panels, and a swooping chrome accent strip suggested a floating-roof design, which seemed slightly out of place. However, the rear end was more cohesive, with a tidy design connecting the taillights with a single light strip. Inside, the RX offered a more conventional and inviting cabin, especially in higher-priced packages with faux suede inserts. The large 14-inch infotainment touchscreen was well-placed, and while the simulated woodgrain on the centre console felt less convincing, the rest of the cabin boasted premium materials and sturdy construction.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its heritage dating back to 1979. Despite subtle updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood, prominent corner lights, and beefy doors with distinctive latches. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550. The G-Class offered a million combinations of exterior paint and interior trim through the Manufaktur program. Inside, the G-Class was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for the three differential locks, and AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels. The G-Class combined ruggedness with luxury, offering a unique blend of traditional design and modern opulence.

The 2024 Lexus RX offered four distinct models, starting with the base RX 350, powered by a turbocharged 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine producing 275 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. In Canada, all models came standard with all-wheel drive. The RX 350h hybrid featured a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 246 hp and 233 lb-ft of torque, using a continuously variable transmission. The RX 500h F Sport Performance combined a turbo 2.4-litre inline-four with a hybrid powertrain, delivering 366 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque, with a six-speed automatic transmission. The plug-in hybrid RX 450h+ offered 304 hp and an estimated 60 km of electric range. While the RX 350 and RX 350h felt underpowered, the RX 450h+ was more responsive, reaching 96 km/h in 6.2 seconds. The RX prioritized comfort with its soft suspension, resulting in noticeable body roll but a smooth ride over road imperfections.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine with 443 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, producing 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions with permanent four-wheel drive. 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. The G-Class excelled in off-road capabilities, with the G 63 offering a more luxurious and powerful experience, while the G 550 provided a plush ride with its less-sophisticated suspension.

The 2024 Lexus RX offered spacious front seats with ample power adjustments, standard heating and ventilation, and a comfortable design for long trips. A rubberized wireless charging pad, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and well-sized storage options enhanced convenience. The rear seats provided good legroom and visibility, with standard rear climate controls and USB ports. The RX had up to 838 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,308 litres with folded seats, though the load floor was slightly taller than competitors.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as large as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but less legroom. The upright driving position reflected its utilitarian origins. Cargo space was limited to 640 litres with rear seats in place, and the side-hinged tailgate could complicate street parking. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, comparable to midsize pickup trucks. Despite its size, the G-Class provided good visibility and was easier to park than larger rivals.

The 2024 Lexus RX featured a new infotainment system with a touchscreen, available in 9.8-inch or 14-inch sizes, offering logical menus, sharp graphics, and quick responses. Natural speech commands allowed for easy adjustments, though not as feature-rich as Mercedes' MBUX system. The steering wheel had multi-function pads, and a cloud-based navigation system was standard, though prone to connectivity issues. The available 21-speaker Mark Levinson surround sound system provided excellent audio quality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class boasted the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment touchscreen, creating a continuous display. Off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and excellent voice recognition enhanced functionality. The Burmester 3D surround sound system, dashcam, and rear-seat entertainment system with dual 11.6-inch touchscreens were notable features.

The 2024 Lexus RX earned five stars in overall and side collision protection from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control, forward collision warning, lane-keep assist, blind-spot monitoring, and more. Some features were conservatively tuned, resulting in unnecessary warnings, but they could be adjusted or disabled.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by the IIHS or NHTSA. Expected standard features included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.