2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Ford Bronco

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" 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 robust doors and latches added to its unique character, making it stand out among luxury SUVs. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The G-Class offered a range of wheel options, with the AMG G 63 models featuring larger wheels and carbon-fibre trim. Inside, the G-Class boasted a luxurious interior with a sci-fi aesthetic, featuring ambient lighting and metallic trim. The dashboard prominently displayed switches for differential locks, and AMG models had sportier steering wheels.

The 2025 Ford Bronco successfully evoked the classic 1960s Bronco while incorporating modern design elements. Its boxy shape was softened with rounded corners, and the front featured a wide rectangular grille with round headlamps. Ford offered multiple top options, allowing for a true open-air experience. The Sasquatch package enhanced off-road capability with features like 17-inch wheels and 35-inch tires. The Bronco lineup included seven versions, with the high-performance Raptor model boasting additional power and off-road modifications. The Bronco Big Bend model, equipped with the Sasquatch package, impressed with its Velocity Blue Metallic finish. The Bronco's design catered to a wide range of buyers, offering versatility and style.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class lineup included gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models, along with the all-electric G 580 variant. The G 550 featured a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine producing 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet of torque, while the AMG G 63 retained its 4.0-litre twin-turbo V8, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included a mild-hybrid system for added power at lower speeds. 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 G 63 featured a new AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, enhancing both off-road and on-road performance. The G-Class excelled in off-road capabilities, with the G 63 offering a more luxurious experience akin to a Ford Bronco Raptor.

The 2025 Ford Bronco offered two main engine options, with the Bronco Raptor featuring a unique, more powerful engine. The base 2.3-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 300 horsepower and 325 pound-feet of torque, while the optional 2.7-litre EcoBoost V6 delivered 330 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Bronco Raptor boasted a towing capacity of 2,040 kilograms. The standard seven-speed manual transmission included a low gear for off-road crawling, while a 10-speed automatic was available. The Sasquatch package enhanced off-road performance with locking differentials and large tires. The Bronco's independent front suspension provided a comfortable ride on tarmac, while advanced 4WD systems improved off-road capabilities.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not small, was more compact than other luxury SUVs. It offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. The driving position was upright, reflecting its utilitarian origins. Cargo space was limited compared to rivals, with 640 litres available with the rear seats in place. The G-Class had a towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms, competitive for a luxury SUV. Its design allowed for good forward visibility and easier parking compared to larger rivals.

The 2025 Ford Bronco offered ample space for two in the two-door model, while the four-door version provided more rear-seat room and easier access. The Sasquatch package's big tires and suspension increased ground clearance but required a step up into the cabin. Cargo space varied, with the two-door offering 634 litres and the four-door providing up to 2,350 litres with seats folded. The Bronco featured numerous storage cubbies and MOLLE mounting points. The four-door model included dedicated rear air conditioning vents and improved insulation for reduced road noise.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class featured the MBUX infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It included dual 12.3-inch screens, creating a continuous display across the dashboard. The off-road menu provided useful information, and the "Transparent Hood" feature aided in navigating obstacles. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the driving experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were expected to be standard.

The 2025 Ford Bronco came with a 12-inch touchscreen running Sync 4 software, offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A second 12-inch screen served as a digital gauge cluster, customizable with various modes. The Bronco featured G.O.A.T. modes for different terrains, with additional modes for specific trims. The Outer Banks trim offered an upgraded Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA. Expected standard safety 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. New features included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2025 Ford Bronco did not come standard with the Co-Pilot360 safety suite, but it was available starting with the Big Bend trim. Standard features included post-collision braking, hill start assist, and hill descent control. The IIHS awarded the Bronco top ratings in several crash tests, while NHTSA gave it four stars for frontal crash safety.