2025 Ford Expedition vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class retained its iconic boxy design, a nod to its origins as the utilitarian "G-Wagen" from 1979. Despite continuous updates, the G-Class maintained its distinctive flat hood, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Subtle styling updates for 2025 included a new grille and bumpers, while functional changes like a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim were introduced. The interior was opulent, featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim, with AMG models boasting sportier steering wheels.

In contrast, the 2025 Ford Expedition showcased a form-over-function design, prioritizing space and practicality. Its slab sides and rectilinear silhouette provided ample headroom and legroom, while styling elements like horseshoe-shaped DRLs and a bold grille added flair. The Expedition's profile was simple, with a character line running along the body, and a new split-gate tailgate offered practical benefits. Available in four trims and two lengths, the Expedition catered to various needs, with the King Ranch trim offering luxurious materials and the Tremor trim excelling in off-road conditions.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class offered a range of powertrains, including the gasoline G 550 and AMG G 63 models. The G 550 featured a 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, delivering 577 hp and 627 lb-ft of torque. Both models included 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 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension, enhancing both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Ford Expedition came equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 400 horsepower and 480 lb-ft of torque. The Tremor trim offered a high-output version with 440 horsepower and 510 lb-ft of torque. Despite its weight, the Expedition excelled in highway driving, offering comfort and quietness. The ten-speed automatic transmission and multi-link rear suspension ensured smooth city driving, while the Tremor trim's off-road capabilities were enhanced by increased ground clearance and all-terrain tires. However, the Expedition's fuel economy was less impressive, with ratings of 15.4 L/100 km in the city and 10.7 on the highway.

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

The 2025 Ford Expedition excelled in towing capacity, reaching up to 4,350 kilograms. Inside, it offered generous cargo space, with 611 litres behind the third row in the standard model, expanding to 3,072 litres with all seats down. The Expedition's minimalist interior design featured touch-sensitive controls, which some may find high-tech but others might find cumbersome. The Expedition's spaciousness and practicality made it a strong contender for families needing ample room and towing capabilities.

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 touchscreen, creating a continuous display. The system included off-road menus, augmented reality navigation, and excellent voice recognition. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment were also expected to be standard.

The 2025 Ford Expedition boasted a 24-inch driver information display and a 13.2-inch touchscreen with a Google-based operating system. The Ford Digital Experience required an active data plan for full functionality, offering Google Maps, Assistant, and Play store access. The Expedition's tech package was impressive, but the reliance on a subscription-based data plan could be a drawback for some buyers.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class had not been rated by IIHS or NHTSA, but it included a comprehensive suite of driver-assistance features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes, and new features like route-based speed adaptation and automated lane centring were added for 2025.

The 2025 Ford Expedition's safety ratings were based on the 2023 model, which received moderate scores in some tests. However, it offered a robust set of standard safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. BlueCruise 1.4 was available for hands-free driving, though it required a subscription after a 90-day trial.