2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "Geländewagen" from 1979. Despite subtle styling updates like a new grille and bumpers, the G-Class maintained its traditional features, including a flat hood and prominent corner lights. The vehicle's character was further emphasized by its robust doors and latches, which produced a distinctive clacking noise. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim, while wheel options ranged from 18 to 22 inches, depending on the model. The interior was luxurious, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models offering sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe continued its legacy as a popular full-size SUV, combining capability and practicality. Its design updates included a new grille and lighting elements, aligning it with other Chevy trucks. Available in six trims, the Tahoe catered to various preferences, from the no-frills LS to the luxurious Premier and High Country. The Z71 trim, tested for this review, featured off-road enhancements like skid plates and all-terrain tires. Inside, the Tahoe boasted a new 17.7-inch touchscreen, replacing the previous model's smaller displays. The cabin also featured updated climate controls and a steering-column-mounted shifter, enhancing the driving experience.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the G 550 with a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque. The AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models featured a mild-hybrid system and nine-speed automatic transmissions, with permanent four-wheel drive and locking differentials. The G 550 accelerated from zero to 96 km/h in 5.3 seconds, while the G 63 achieved the same in 4.2 seconds. The AMG model also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe offered two V8 engine options: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower and 383 pound-feet of torque, and a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 hp and 460 lb-ft of torque. A 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine was also available, producing 305 hp and 495 lb-ft of torque. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, with 4WD standard on most trims. The Tahoe's light steering feel was surprising for its size, though the brake pedal was noted for its heavy feel. Suspension options included Magnetic Ride Control and Air Ride adaptive suspension, enhancing ride quality and handling.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than some luxury SUVs, offering a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its traditional design impacted cargo space, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, less than some rivals. Despite its size, the G-Class offered good visibility and was easier to park than larger competitors.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe excelled in cargo and towing capacity, with up to 3,474 litres of cargo space with seats folded and a towing capacity of up to 3,810 kilograms with the Max Trailering package. The Tahoe's large fuel tank and efficient diesel engine allowed for long highway drives. While the Tahoe offered impressive cargo volume, its trunk space was limited with all seats in use. The availability of 24-inch wheels required Magnetic Ride Control for improved ride quality.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Two 12.3-inch screens served as the gauge cluster and infotainment display, with off-road menus and a "Transparent Hood" feature. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the user experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were also expected.

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe introduced a 17.7-inch touchscreen, complemented by an 11-inch driver information screen and an optional 15-inch HUD. Standard features included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, with Google Built-in offering seamless integration of Google services. While the touchscreen was user-friendly, the driver information display and steering wheel controls required a learning curve. The premium Bose sound system was less impressive compared to rivals.

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

The 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe had not been rated for crash safety by the NHTSA or IIHS, but the 2024 model received four out of five stars from the NHTSA. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and a surround-view camera. GM's Super Cruise hands-free driving tech was available, though not on early 2025 models.