2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class vs 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC

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, prominent corner lights, and robust doors that clacked loudly when locked or unlocked. Functional changes included a repositioned rearview camera and new A-pillar trim for the base G 550 models. The interior was opulent, with a sci-fi aesthetic featuring large round vents, ambient lighting, and metallic trim. AMG models boasted sportier steering wheels, enhancing the rugged yet luxurious feel of the G-Class.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC followed the brand's design language with taut lines and a muscular shape, highlighted by a star-pattern grille and LED headlights. Its taller cabin and short overhangs suggested multi-terrain capability. The GLC's crisp headlights and detailed tail lights kept its look fresh, while optional 20-inch AMG wheels added athleticism. Inside, the GLC featured contrasting leather door panels and premium materials. The GLC 350e PHEV model offered white leather seats with heating and ventilation options, a haptic steering wheel, and faux carbon fibre accents, creating a luxurious and modern cabin environment.

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 with 443 horsepower and 413 pound-feet 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, enhancing performance with an additional 20 hp and 148 lb-ft at lower speeds. 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 G 63 also introduced the AMG Active Ride Control suspension system, improving both off-road and on-road dynamics.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC came standard with the 4Matic AWD system and a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, producing 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque in the 300 model. The 350e PHEV variant offered a combined output of 313 hp and 406 lb-ft, thanks to its hybrid system. The GLC 300 accelerated from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.2 seconds, while the 350e took 6.7 seconds. The GLC's ride quality was commendable, with excellent handling and steering response. The 350e's regenerative braking and electric range of 87 kilometres added to its efficiency, making it a practical choice for both city and highway driving.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class, while not as spacious as some luxury SUVs, offered a tall passenger compartment with ample headroom but limited legroom. Its compact dimensions made it easier to manoeuvre and park compared to larger rivals. The G-Class provided 640 litres of cargo space, expandable with the rear seats folded. Its towing capacity of 3,500 kilograms was competitive, and the vehicle's design ensured good visibility and a commanding view of the road.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC offered good front-seat space, even for taller drivers, but rear-seat legroom was limited. The GLC 350e provided 470 litres of cargo space, expandable to 1,530 litres with the rear seats folded. The split rear seat and wide width facilitated easy loading of large items. The GLC's hybridization contributed to its fuel efficiency, with the 350e averaging 9.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The mild-hybrid 300 model offered slightly better fuel economy, making the GLC a practical choice for everyday use.

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, an off-road menu, and a "Transparent Hood" feature for improved visibility. Augmented reality navigation and voice recognition enhanced the user experience. A Burmester 3D surround sound system and rear-seat entertainment system were also expected to be standard.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC incorporated the latest MBUX system with haptic controls and an 11.9-inch touchscreen. While the system required some acclimation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Bluetooth connected seamlessly. The GLC's ambient lighting and Burmester 3D surround sound system added to the driving experience, despite occasional touchscreen sluggishness.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz G-Class was equipped with standard driver-assistance features, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. The Pre-Safe system prepared the vehicle for imminent crashes. New features for 2025 included route-based speed adaptation, automated lane centring, and an emergency-stop feature.

The 2025 Mercedes-Benz GLC came with standard safety features like blind-spot monitoring and active braking assistance. The optional Driver Assistance Package added adaptive cruise control, lane-change assist, and other advanced features. These systems worked harmoniously, enhancing the GLC's safety credentials.